Camping at Hugo Lake features a mix of Corps of Engineers campgrounds and state park facilities across southeastern Oklahoma. The lake spans approximately 13,250 acres with 110 miles of shoreline, offering waterfront camping options from March through October at most locations. Water levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting shoreline access at certain campgrounds during summer drought conditions or spring flooding periods.
What to do
Fishing tournaments and opportunities: Hugo Lake hosts competitive fishing events including the Uncle Jesse Big Bass Classic. "There is a serious fishing tournament held every year, Uncle Jesse Big Bass Classic Fishing Tournament, started by Denver Pyle who played Uncle Jesse on The Dukes of Hazzard fame," reports a visitor to Pat Mayse Sanders Cove Recreations area.
Water recreation beyond swimming: The lake offers boating and kayaking opportunities with multiple access points. At Raymond Gary State Park Campground, one visitor noted "It would make a great kayak or jet ski weekend trip."
Hiking and biking: Trail systems connect several campgrounds around the lake. "The hiking trails are great!" shared one longtime visitor to Sanders Cove. While not extensive, trails provide opportunities for wildlife viewing with campers reporting deer sightings: "We startled three deer as we were driving into Little River Park."
What campers like
Quiet lakeside retreats: Many campers appreciate the peaceful atmosphere at less crowded campgrounds. At Virgil Point, a reviewer described "clean quiet campground beside Hugo lake stayed in C07 for two weeks concrete pads covered table, grill and fire pit."
Wildlife viewing: Natural habitats around the lake support diverse wildlife. One camper at Little River Park mentioned: "We immediately were impressed with the stunning beauty of the area. We startled three deer as we were driving into Little River Park."
Campsite spacing: Site layout varies significantly between campgrounds, with some offering more privacy than others. At Pat Mayse West, a visitor noted, "This is a large campground, lots of room between sites! Good place to go for a family camping spot! Shade and level sites!"
Clean facilities: Maintenance standards receive consistently positive reviews. A Pine Creek Cove visitor reported, "The park was very clean and the staff are very friendly and helpful."
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Several campgrounds operate on limited schedules. At Pine Creek Cove, a camper advised: "Make sure to bring everything with you because the closest store is about 10 miles."
Cell service variations: Coverage differs significantly between locations. A camper at COE Hugo Lake Kiamichi Park reported "weak, but useable, cell connection with T-Mobile," while another at Raymond Gary State Park Campground noted: "My Verizon phone system works well and my Verizon hotspot."
Pest concerns: Insects can be problematic at certain times. One camper at Hugo Lake State Park reported: "I noticed within a few hours of setting up camp that roaches started invading my gear. By the end of my second night, I saw more than 10 roaches in various spots in and out of my gear."
Noise policies: Enforcement of quiet hours varies between campgrounds. According to a Hugo Lake State Park visitor: "My other complaint is that the noise from neighbors was allowed to go on... only ended by them going to sleep around 2am. They have a noise ordnance clearly posted with a time limit... while the rangers drove through the park regularly, the noise ordinance was not enforced."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. At Shady Oaks RV Resort, a visitor highlighted "a playground for the kids, right across the highway from the lake, and a family friendly bar and grill located right at the campground."
Group camping areas: For families traveling together, dedicated group sections provide communal space. A visitor to Pat Mayse West noted "B loop has a nice group camp section that is set back just off the main B loop, which would be great for families."
Water activities for kids: The lake offers various water recreation options. At Sanders Cove, a family reported their "Family fun weekend!" included "Boating, grilling, yard games, geocaching and more!"
Accessibility considerations: Some sites accommodate mobility challenges better than others. A camper at Little River Park shared: "Our site was great! Very level with a huge concrete pad that was ideal of the mobility challenged camper."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Terrain variations affect RV setup at many campgrounds. One RVer at Pat Mayse West mentioned: "The spot was unleveled but that's no big deal if you have leveling blocks."
Hookup locations: Water and electrical access points vary significantly between sites. An RVer at Little River Park advised: "Make sure you come with lots of water hose, i needed about 60 feet. Our site backs in sideways and offers a fantastic view from the inside."
Satellite reception: Tree coverage affects satellite service. At Little River Park, a camper noted: "Sat worked great as there are no trees blocking Dish."
Dump station constraints: Some facilities have limitations for larger rigs. A reviewer at Little River Park warned: "There is a dump station on the way out that is too tight for my rig. I will dump my gray/black somewhere else."
