The region surrounding Keota, Oklahoma sits in the foothills of the Ozark Mountains at elevations averaging 600-800 feet. Forests of oak and hickory dominate the landscape, creating a backdrop for several lakes and rivers with varied water clarity. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing while summer days regularly exceed 90°F, requiring campers to prepare for seasonal extremes.
What to do
Hiking trails: The area offers varied terrain from gentle lakeside paths to challenging forest trails. At Greenleaf State Park Campground, trails are well-maintained and clearly marked. "The trails at greenleaf are well maintained and marked. Their primitive camping is accessible and well kept," notes one visitor. Fall brings striking color changes to the hardwood forests.
Water activities: Lake Tenkiller provides exceptional underwater visibility. "Lake Tenkiller is an amazing location to scuba dive. Its waters are clear and cool from a distance of 8 to 28 feet. A diver will have the opportunity to investigate a sunken airplane fuselage, school bus, helicopter and two boats," reports a camper. Swimming areas are typically open May through September.
Trout fishing: Year-round fishing opportunities exist at several parks, including stocked trout streams. "Just up the road on the main lake they are building a new restaurant overlooking the lake. Kayak rentals and horse rides nearby. Plus lots of hiking," explains a regular visitor to the area. Fishing permits are required and can be purchased at most park offices.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Robbers Cave State Park offers well-spaced campsites with natural barriers. "Site 23 was a pull through site with full hookups located only about 5 feet off the main campground road... The site then on the opposite side held our own little secluded spot surrounded by pine trees down a slight slope from camper," describes one visitor. These sites fill quickly during summer weekends.
Historical significance: The area has connections to famous outlaws and Native American history. "Lots of history at Robbers Cave State Park! Belle Starr famous Lady Outlaw! Jesse James Gang! Beautiful lakes and numerous hiking trails!" shares an enthusiastic camper. Several parks offer interpretive programs highlighting these connections during summer months.
Outdoor recreation options: Marval Camping Resort provides family-centered activities beyond standard camping. "Lots to keep the kids busy, we had a really good time. Campsites are pretty close together though so we didn't have the space or privacy we like but I know we will go back," notes one family. Organized activities typically run Friday-Sunday during peak season.
What you should know
Shower facilities vary: Some campgrounds have outdated or limited shower options. At Brooken Cove Campground, "Bathroom doubles as shower, clean, up kept." However, another reviewer at a different park noted, "Showers need cleaning and water pressure is very poor." Many parks charge for showers, requiring quarters.
Wildlife encounters: Expect various wildlife throughout the region. "My first evening I wandered down to use the restroom and I observed a pack of turkeys quietly making their way down the ridge. It was magical," shares one camper. Snake encounters are also common, especially near water areas during warmer months.
Water quality changes: Lake colors can vary based on rainfall and season. "Little sketchy of the red/brown lake water to swim in and the bugs are massive compared to the desert," notes one visitor from out west. Water levels may drop significantly during drought periods, affecting boat launches.
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Cedar Lake offers family-friendly facilities. "We enjoyed the scenery and peace. Would come again and again. Don't forget the ice, there's nothing close," advises one camper. Most playgrounds lack shade during summer afternoons.
Swimming areas: Several parks have designated swimming zones with varying facilities. "Early March for this visit and definitely winter scapes...but still beautiful. Trout fishing just steps away from camp and we had the whole campground to ourselves for the night," reports a winter visitor. Swimming areas typically open Memorial Day weekend.
Splash pads: Some parks offer modern water features for children. "The absolute best part of this park is the splash pad. It was the best splash pad we've been too. They had a cool slide and we had a blast," enthuses one family that visited during Labor Day weekend. Splash pads typically operate from 10am-7pm during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many campsites require additional equipment for proper leveling. At Sallisaw-Fort Smith West KOA, "Sites are a bit close for our tastes but for a quick overnight it suited our needs perfectly." RVers recommend bringing leveling blocks for many of the older campgrounds.
Water connections: Bring extra hoses and connectors for shared water sources. "In our site we needed 50 ft of water hose and I would suggest bringing a 'y' water connector," advises one RVer. Some parks have widely spaced water spigots that serve multiple sites.
Campsite selection: Research specific site dimensions before booking. "I liked spot 42 which has the perfect view and lots of space, but the pad is on an incline and my jacks couldn't extend without using rocks that were already there for that very reason," notes an experienced RVer. Corner sites typically offer more space but may have challenging access.