The Grand Lake area near Disney, Oklahoma sits at an elevation of approximately 750 feet and features over 1,300 miles of shoreline along Grand Lake O' the Cherokees. Most campgrounds in this region remain open year-round with temperatures ranging from winter lows around 30°F to summer highs averaging 90°F. RV camping near Disney, Oklahoma typically offers full hookup sites with 30-50 amp service, though availability becomes limited during summer holiday weekends.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Several campgrounds provide direct access to local trails. Blowing Springs RV Park offers "incredible instant access to the trailhead of many singletrack bike and hiking trails" according to one reviewer at Blowing Springs RV Park. Another visitor mentions that "hiking trails abound in and around blowing springs which connect into the back 40 trail system."
Recreational facilities: Some campgrounds include on-site recreation beyond typical amenities. Claremore Expo RV Park provides "access to the Expo rec center" where "kids had a lot of fun in the pool. They really enjoyed the climbing wall and diving board!" The park is also within walking distance of the expo center where visitors "can go in and pet horses."
Casino entertainment: For evening activities, several resorts are located near gaming facilities. At Downstream RV Park, one visitor notes that "stay is free with a membership card from casino. Got card then went to gift shop to get space." Another camper clarifies that this park offers "a free concrete parking lot with hookups" but there's "no shuttle to the casino."
What campers like
Waterfront accessibility: Many campers praise the lake access at Waters Edge RV & Cabin Resort where "having a picnic and campfire area right next to the water was a unique experience for a campground." A different reviewer confirms that "most, if not all, spots have decks overlooking the water."
Swimming options: Multiple resorts feature pool facilities. At Pine Island RV Resort, visitors appreciate that "the kids enjoy the outdoor pool and the lake views from the north side of the property are second to none at Grand Lake." One long-term visitor mentions "we absolutely love the mini golf course and game facility, as well as the Eagles Nest!"
Natural shade: Unlike newer parks, several campgrounds feature mature trees. One Pine Island visitor notes "the park is in the woods so almost all the spaces are shaded by beautiful old growth trees. We prefer this to the glorified parking lots that so many newer rv parks have become."
What you should know
Electric compatibility: When booking, check power requirements as they vary by site. At Waters Edge, "you may need an electrical extension if you're bringing a towable as the electric is on the opposite side from the sewer and water. The campground does have a supply of these, if needed."
Long-term residents: Many properties maintain a mix of transient and permanent guests. At Monkey Island RV Resort, visitors will find "park models and group houses as well as RV pads" in a setup described as having "very little shade" but being "close to the water."
Cellular connectivity: Cell coverage varies widely throughout the region. A Waters Edge visitor cautions that "the wireless can be spotty depending on your site location in the park." At Downstream RV Park, a camper reported "no wifi but cellular was good. No cable but pulled 32 channels from the antenna."
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: Seek out campgrounds with diverse recreation for all ages. A visitor to Claremore Expo RV Park noted "there is a lot to do nearby. Within walking distance there's the expo center and a Rec center with a pool. You can go to Will Rogers Museum, JM Davis fun museum, RSU has a nice little hiking trail as does the Lake."
Safety precautions: Some waterfront sites require extra vigilance. One family at Waters Edge reported "the drop off from the camp sites to the lake was so steep that we had to constantly remind our children to stay back from the edge. Luckily, there were no mishaps."
Bathroom facilities: Check shower and restroom availability if needed. At Downstream RV Park, visitors should know there are "no showers" and "no toilets" according to the amenities list, while Chouteau Moto RV Park offers "hot water showers, bathrooms, laundry room, wifi, this place has it all."
Tips from RVers
Reservation timing: Plan far ahead for waterfront sites, especially during peak season. A Waters Edge visitor advises: "It looks like many of the people here have year-around rentals so I would imagine if you are booking throughout the summer, you'll want to get your reservation in as early as possible."
Site features: Look for level sites with adequate space. At Grand Lake O' the Cherokees RV Resort, "sites are good size and can accommodate large rigs. Full hookups, nice common area, easy access to launch ramps." Another visitor appreciated their "pull-through site" and noted they "were escorted to site 90 and were assisted backing in."
Pet accommodations: Most parks are pet-friendly with varying amenities. Grand Lake O' the Cherokees offers "two small fenced dog areas but plenty of room to walk your dogs" according to a recent visitor.
