Camping near Keota, Oklahoma offers waterfront sites with varied levels of development against an eastern Oklahoma backdrop. Robert S. Kerr Reservoir provides multiple Corps of Engineers camping options operating seasonally from May through September. Water levels fluctuate throughout the year, with lower levels typically occurring in late summer and early fall. The Arkansas River navigation system creates a unique setting where campers might see commercial barges passing near recreation areas.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Applegate Cove Campground, anglers access the Arkansas River with dedicated facilities. "There's a small walking loop down to the Arkansas river which left me a gorgeous view of the sunset," notes Andrew R., who found the campground well-maintained despite visiting during a fishing competition.
Hiking trails: Just over an hour from Keota, Robbers Cave State Park offers multiple trail systems through pine forests and rocky terrain. "The hike was worth every hair raising nervous parent moment," reports Kyle H., who completed the steep 3/4-mile cave trail with children. The park spans 8,000 acres with varying difficulty levels across its trail network.
Water recreation: Robert S. Kerr Reservoir supports multiple water activities beyond fishing. "Beautiful sunsets, quit and very clean. Two playgrounds and a clean bath/shower house," reports Jim R. about Applegate Cove, which offers boat launch facilities for accessing the 43,000-acre reservoir with 250 miles of shoreline.
What campers like
Quieter off-season camping: While summer brings crowds to the water, camping during spring and fall offers more solitude. One camper at Greenleaf State Park notes, "If you dig the crowds and the splash park scene and the loud music... hit it in the summer. But if you like it quiet and peaceful check it out in the winter or early spring."
Wildlife viewing: The Robert S. Kerr area supports diverse wildlife beyond what's mentioned in the existing description. "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 Jo L. about Gobbler's Ridge at Greenleaf State Park. Osprey nesting sites have also been established in recent years.
Budget-friendly options: City-operated sites provide economical alternatives to state parks and Corps facilities. At Webbers Falls City Park, Jerry E. found excellent value: "As a Senior, my fee was $13 per night" for sites with 50-amp service, hot water showers, and river views. The park offers both primitive and electric sites ranging from $7-15 per night.
What you should know
Reservation systems vary: Corps of Engineers sites require planning through recreation.gov. "Beware—I had tried to call ahead hours before, but the phone number listed takes you to the Army Corp of Engineers who are technically in charge of all these campgrounds but they do not know the status of reservations," warns Steve G. about Applegate Cove. The correct reservation number is 877-444-6777.
Site quality differences: Even within the same campground, site conditions can vary significantly. At Cowlington Point, Susan F. notes, "Restroom facilities are old but usually clean. Campground located on the Kerr Navigation Channel." Sites may feature broken concrete pads or uneven gravel surfaces.
Seasonal facility closures: Beyond campground closures, individual facilities may close seasonally. "The sign on the bathroom said it was closed for the season," reports one camper at Webbers Falls during an off-season visit. Shower houses at Corps sites may close earlier than the campgrounds themselves.
Tips for camping with families
Splash pad options: When temperatures rise, water features become essential. "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," shares Richard about Greenleaf State Park, which maintains this feature during peak season.
Accessibility considerations: Not all trails accommodate strollers or mobility devices. Matt B. notes, "We tried a few trails but were too hard for us. We have a daughter with cerebral palsy that we pull in a wagon and the trails were too rough for the wagon." Research trail conditions before visiting with mobility-limited family members.
Camp layout planning: At Sallisaw-Fort Smith West KOA, proximity to amenities affects the camping experience. "We didn't get to use the playground area this visit as pool and hot tub were closed for the year. They also have normal cabin rental and tiny home rentals that were perfectly positioned around campground and fishing pond," reports Craig E., who recommends requesting specific site locations.
Tips from RVers
Water hookup preparation: Some sites require extra equipment for water connections. Craig E. experienced this at Applegate Cove: "Water was to be shared with neighbor site, so why am I paying full price. Pretty stupid." Bring extra hose lengths and Y-connectors when camping at Corps of Engineers sites near Keota.
Site spacing concerns: Proximity to neighbors varies widely between campgrounds. "My only complaint would be that the sites are really compact. Plenty of room for your RV but so close that you can hear and smell your neighbors," notes Craig E. about the Sallisaw KOA, contrasting with more spacious Corps sites.
Level site selection: When booking online, research site conditions first. "We stayed at site with pad and patio," notes Charles A. about Applegate Cove, where concrete pads provide more level parking than gravel or grass sites. Some campers recommend first-come, first-served selection to visually inspect sites before committing.
