Camping areas near Hodgen, Oklahoma sit within the Ouachita Mountains at elevations between 600-2,300 feet, creating distinct microclimates throughout the seasons. The region's limestone formations and pine forests provide natural wind breaks for campers, with summer temperatures typically reaching the upper 80s and winters dropping to the 30s. Fall camping is particularly popular as humidity levels drop significantly after September.
What to Do
Fishing at Cedar Lake: The 86-acre Cedar Lake offers year-round fishing opportunities with bass, crappie and catfish. "The lake nearby is great. We brought our kayaks and had so much fun hitting the lake in the morning. It does get busy as the day goes on, especially in the summer on the weekends," notes a visitor at Cedar Lake.
Hiking the Ouachita Trail: Multiple access points near Hodgen connect to the 223-mile Ouachita National Recreation Trail. "We enjoy the Horsetheif Springs Trail which starts behind the dump station. You can either hike a small couple mail loop or extend it to 14 miles," explains a camper from Cedar Lake.
Cave exploration: The namesake caves at Robbers Cave State Park provide historical interest with moderate hiking required. "The hike was worth every hair raising nervous parent moment. It has so much to offer, and we did not even touch on the many miles worth of trails to hike or go for a horseback ride on," reports a visitor.
Winter trout fishing: Seasonal trout stocking occurs in designated areas. "Trout fishing just steps away from camp and we had the whole campground to ourselves for the night," mentions a Robbers Cave State Park visitor who camped during March.
What Campers Like
Pine forest camping: The tall pines create natural privacy between sites. "The large pines, the facilities and the hiking is wonderful. Cedar lake is beautiful. When we lived in Oklahoma we would camp out regularly in March, bring jackets and stuff to keep warm," shares a Cedar Lake visitor.
Yurt accommodations: For those seeking yurt camping near Hodgen, Oklahoma, premium options exist with heating and cooling. "We rented a bunk cabin for the USCA rally and I loved it, price was right, accommodations perfect," notes a camper from CMA Iron Mountain Cabins and Campground, which offers yurt-style accommodations about 30 miles from Hodgen.
Campsite privacy: Many sites feature natural buffers. "The campsite spots themselves are pretty big in size and are separated by trees and bushes. Feels very private. They do have a quiet hour which is after 10pm," explains a Cedar Lake visitor.
Off-season solitude: Winter and early spring bring quiet camping conditions. "Campgrounds were incredibly peaceful and quiet. There is running water and bathrooms which were relatively clean. There was no campground host and nobody came to check our reservations, but it was not crowded," notes a Cedar Lake camper who visited in fall.
What You Should Know
Cedar allergies: Yurt and cabin campers with sensitivities should be prepared. "BUT IF YOU HAVE CEDAR OR PINE ALLERGIES be warned, my wife couldn't as it made it most unpleasant for her," cautions a visitor to CMA Iron Mountain.
Flash flood zones: Certain camping areas require weather awareness. "The Big Brushy Creek is right beside the campground and has several walking trails down to the creek. This creek floods quickly and there are signs located through the park indicating it is a flash flood area, so be aware," warns a camper from Big Brushy.
Wildlife encounters: Prepare for various animal sightings. "Saw a ton of wild turkeys and two cottonmouth snakes," reports a Cedar Lake visitor who camped in the North Shore loop.
Site reservation specifics: Some campgrounds use honor systems rather than formal check-ins. "After hours checkin is still by the honor system!!" notes a visitor to CMA Iron Mountain Cabins and Campground.
Tips for Camping with Families
Early morning activities: Plan water activities before crowds arrive. "We took our kayaks and had so much fun hitting the lake in the morning. It does get busy as the day goes on, especially in the summer on the weekends. Hiking is great, and there are multiple good spots nearby. Again, go early to beat the crowds!" advises a Cedar Lake visitor.
Miniature golf options: Robbers Cave offers family activities beyond hiking. "My son also got to play miniature for the first time at the course located next to the pool. One word of warning the golf course is very dated with carpet ripped or completely missing in spots," notes a Sallisaw-Fort Smith West KOA visitor who also explored Robbers Cave.
Guided park programs: Check for scheduled ranger activities. "We did a hayride that lead us through the park to the stables where there is a petting zoo, we saw the second largest pine tree in Oklahoma, and drank water from an artesian well," shares a Robbers Cave visitor.
Tips from RVers
Seasonal campground differences: The area offers varied experiences throughout the year. "We stayed in an RV site, enjoyed the pool, bounce pad & basketball. A shuttle runs that is wheelchair accessible that will take you into town for Wal-Mart runs and more," notes a visitor to Sallisaw-Fort Smith West KOA.
Supply planning: Limited nearby services require preparation. "Don't forget the ice, there's nothing close," advises a Cedar Lake camper who stayed at Site 33.
Hookup availability: Research site amenities before booking. "I needed an electric hookup to charge the batteries on my boat every night and he was able to give us a site with hookups close to the boat ramp," explains a Cedar Lake visitor describing the helpfulness of camp hosts in meeting specific RV needs.
