Tent camping options around Heyburn Lake offer primitive and established sites within a 30-mile radius of this central Oklahoma reservoir. The region features rolling hills with an elevation range of 700-900 feet and receives approximately 40 inches of annual rainfall. Most tent sites in this area sit on either clay or sandy soil, requiring campers to select tent placement carefully during wet conditions.
What to do
Fishing at multiple locations: Verdigris River Park offers excellent fishing opportunities along the waterway. Jennifer D. notes, "This side of the dam is for fishing. Spent many many MANY nights going night fishing with my family growing up and it was always so much fun!" The area supports bass, catfish, and drum species.
Shoreline exploration: At Newt Graham Lock and Dam, visitors can discover natural artifacts along the water's edge. Jennifer D. mentions, "You can hike the shoreline down a ways and look for shells and cool driftwood... Last time I went we found lots of old cow bones along the river which was cool."
Kayaking and boating: Multiple water access points exist for small watercraft. The tent camping area at Verdigris River allows visitors to "put a boat in the river on this side or kayak up and down," according to Jennifer D., making it suitable for paddlers seeking riverside camping.
What campers like
Peaceful environment: Many tent campers value the quiet atmosphere at Sunset Bay. Jacinda V. shares, "Very nice and clean campgrounds. It was empty and quiet during our stay," highlighting the tranquil nature of this location, particularly during off-peak periods.
Secluded spots for privacy: Three Ponds Community offers walk-in tent sites away from crowds. Jaleesia C. describes her experience: "This has been a great experience. Especially for a solo trip. Offer A frame structure... The land is beautiful and firewood is provided for a small fee."
Swimming opportunities: Tent campers seeking water recreation beyond fishing can find swimming holes at Huge Great Bus Camping. Ken R. simply describes the primitive site as having a "Swimming hole and woods," providing a natural alternative to lake swimming.
What you should know
Seasonal water availability: Water access varies significantly by season. At Three Ponds Community, Jaleesia C. notes, "There is currently no running water due to colder temperatures. But once it warms water is on site," indicating winter campers should bring their own water supply.
Security considerations: Unmanned gates affect security levels at some locations. Sandy O. explains about Sunset Bay: "The park is gated (un-maned) and access is not restricted... this area used to gather a lot of riff-raff. The other camp located just a short distance away is gated (Maned) and the sites all have water and electric."
Road conditions: Access to certain camping areas requires navigating unpaved roads. Regarding Newt Graham Lock and Dam, a reviewer cautions: "Getting to it is sketchy, the road turns to dirt and there are areas that people unfortunately dump trash... make sure to not get stuck! There's washed out areas but cars can make it."
Tips for camping with families
Choose developed campgrounds: For families, Redbud Bay offers more amenities and comfort. Ellen P. shares: "We have camped at Red Bud Bay marina a few times. Love their cabins. We camped once there when it was extremely cold and the water lines froze. But they were right on top of it getting it fixed."
Look for tent-specific areas: Some locations designate areas specifically for tent camping. Lisa H. describes Verdigris River Park as a "Small Tent Only Campground" that's "perfect if you are tent camping and need a quick place to stop and rest for a day or two."
Consider site proximity: Be aware of how close sites are to one another when camping with children. Jennifer D. observes about Verdigris River Park: "The camping sites...... they are very close together unless you get the very last one. It's near a wooded area. The first 2 are out in the open, by the roads, do a cartwheel and you are in the next camping spot."
Tips from RVers
Small RV considerations: For the best tent camping near Heyburn Lake with small RVs, Sky Valley Acres provides both tent and RV accommodation. Ash C. recommends it as an "Excellent little spot hidden away" that's "well maintained and peaceful, great for a night stop over or a several night stay."
Weather preparation: Oklahoma weather patterns can affect tent camping comfort significantly. When temperatures drop, water systems may freeze. As Ellen P. experienced at Redbud Bay: "We camped once there when it was extremely cold and the water lines froze."
Access road navigation: RVers should research road conditions before attempting to reach more remote tent camping areas. Jennifer D. warns about access to Newt Graham Lock and Dam: "There is no parking lot. Not many people go down there. Just make sure to not get stuck! There's washed out areas but cars can make it."
