Glamping in Guthrie, Oklahoma includes options for everything from scenic lake views to unique farm experiences. Located 35 miles north of Oklahoma City, Guthrie sits at an elevation of 1,051 feet in a region known for hot, humid summers and occasional severe weather. Campsites range from primitive tent spots around local lakes to full-service RV parks with hookups.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Shawnee Twin Lakes provides multiple fishing spots across two connected lakes. One camper noted, "Great bass fishing here! The dams were cool to see. It was easy to walk in and get a permit for camping and fishing."
Wildlife viewing: At Arcadia Lake, visitors can spot various wildlife while enjoying shoreline camping. A camper shared, "While it's close to the city, it feels far away. Lake activities and hiking are available."
Swimming areas: Bell Cow Lake Campground C offers designated swimming spots with natural sand bottoms. According to a visitor, "The tent area is on the water with water access through the grass along the shoreline. Swimming was great with a sand bottom once you got past the grass."
Equestrian trails: Bell Cow Lake features miles of riding trails for horse enthusiasts. A reviewer mentioned, "Area B also has several equine trails. Hiked down one and the trail was very peaceful and beautiful."
What campers like
Peaceful settings: The Lazy H Alpaca Ranch offers a quiet camping experience with animal companions. A camper shared, "We got to pet the Alpacas and the 3 Great Pyrenees kept us company."
Lake access: Arcadia Lake provides direct water access from multiple campsites. One visitor commented, "Great campsite! Picnic tables and fire pits. Walking distance to the beautiful lake. Fairly private site lots of trees between each."
Clean facilities: At Rockwell RV Park, visitors appreciate well-maintained amenities. A camper noted, "They have a decent indoor pool, buffalo in an enclosure, and laundry facilities. They have a church service on Sundays, and they bake muffins each morning that are free for guests."
Family attractions: El Reno West KOA offers extensive family-friendly amenities. A visitor mentioned, "Paved roads were great for bike riding, beautiful lake along the back side of the grounds, nice large dog run, clean and plenty of machines in the laundry area, super cool playground with outdoor workout equipment too."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most glamping sites near Guthrie require advance booking, particularly for specialty accommodations like yurts. For standard camping, many areas operate on a first-come basis.
Seasonal considerations: Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F from June through August, making spring and fall more comfortable for tent camping. Winter camping is possible but prepare for occasional freezing temperatures.
Wildlife encounters: Cedar Crest RV park offers natural settings with local wildlife. A visitor noted, "Beautiful park surrounded by magnificent cedar trees and a fishing pond."
Site preparation: Some campgrounds have challenging terrain. At Bell Cow Lake, a camper warned, "It had recently rained a lot, so I had a thick layer of red mud on my shoes from the hike."
Campsite spacing: Campground layout varies significantly. A Rockwell RV Park visitor cautioned, "It looks like a big parking lot and the spaces are very close."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Find family-focused campgrounds with dedicated play areas. A visitor to El Reno West KOA shared, "Pool, pedal carts, jumping pillow, and a playground for the kids! Super friendly staff."
Animal experiences: Choose unique glamping options that include animal interactions. At Lazy H Alpaca Ranch, the alpaca farm provides educational opportunities for children in a camping setting.
Swimming beaches: Some lakes offer designated swimming areas with gradual entry points. Bell Cow Lake Campground includes "a swim beach, a volleyball court, pavilions" according to one visitor.
Storm preparation: Oklahoma weather can change rapidly. Several campgrounds, including El Reno West KOA, provide storm shelters. One camper noted, "They have a Storm cellar! Did not need to use."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Rockwell RV Park, consider your specific needs. A visitor advised, "We asked to change our site and they accommodated us. Friendly staff with small store."
Hookup options: Many RV parks offer full hookups but confirm specifics before booking. Cedar Crest RV park provides "32 Spacious Hookups, 22 - Drive-through, 10 - Back-in" according to a reviewer.
Amenities to expect: Sparks America Campgrounds offers full-service camping with modern conveniences. A visitor remarked, "The grounds was very clean the bathrooms was totally clean easy to get to overall a great experience."
Accessibility considerations: Some RV sites require navigation skills. An El Reno West KOA visitor noted, "The full hook up spots up front are literally a parking lot. The spots are so close you are almost touching the RVs beside you."
