The Purcell area features primarily red clay soil terrain with elevations ranging from 1,050 to 1,150 feet above sea level. Most camping sites near Purcell, Oklahoma center around Lake Thunderbird, a 6,000-acre reservoir with distinct red-colored water due to the Oklahoma clay soil. The region experiences hot summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F from June through September.
What to do
Hiking trails: Several campgrounds near Lake Thunderbird offer hiking opportunities with varying difficulty levels. At Little Axe — Lake Thunderbird State Park, campers report good hiking options. One visitor mentioned, "Stayed here for a couple nights, few other campers. Site was straight across from the lake. Got some good hiking in."
Biking exploration: The interconnected trail systems around Lake Thunderbird provide excellent biking options. At South Dam - Lake Thunderbird State Park, one camper noted, "We didn't stay but rode our bikes over from Little Ax to ride the bike trails. No one there except the campground hosts but we explored the campground and area. Very nice. Lots and lots of trails including and unmarked but paved trail."
Wildlife viewing: Early morning and evening hours offer the best wildlife spotting opportunities around the lake. Campers at Hog Creek West report diverse wildlife encounters, with one camper commenting, "A little slopey, no big rocks. Picnic table, fire pit, lantern holder, near the lake. Enjoyed our stay, wasn't too crowded and great weather helped. Lots of wildlife at night."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campers appreciate the less crowded areas of Lake Thunderbird. A camper at Little Sandy Campground observed, "Sites are well spaced apart and pretty level. Most have electric and water with a central located dump station near by. Plenty of fishing to be had at the lake... hiking and biking also in area."
Fall colors: The autumn season transforms the landscape around Lake Thunderbird. A reviewer at Turkey Pass noted, "Beautiful fall colors and a bit breezy!!" Another camper at South Dam shared, "We visited in October when the leaves were changing and it was so beautiful. The lake is great. Bring your fishing gear. Site spacing is good. Typical amenities for a state park."
Peaceful weekday stays: For those seeking quiet, weekdays offer a less crowded camping experience. At Little Sandy Campground, one camper advised, "Great quiet out of the way place.... during the week... weekends get a bit busy!!"
What you should know
Bathroom conditions vary: Facilities can differ significantly between campgrounds. One camper at Critter Alley commented, "Bathrooms and showers have AC!" However, another visitor to Little Sandy Campground had a different experience: "The bathrooms were a disgrace. Even after being 'cleaned'. Will never go back to this place."
Site reservation challenges: During peak periods, finding your reserved site may be difficult. A Little Sandy camper reported, "First every campsite we reserved had people on them so we had to kick people off multiple sites so we could set up."
Security concerns: Some campgrounds have experienced theft issues. At Clear Bay Point, one camper warned, "There is a bunch of smash and grab break ins here. Just happened to me yesterday. Was only on a hike literally 20 minutes came back and my passenger side window was busted out."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Certain campgrounds include play areas specifically designed for children. A reviewer noted that Rose Rock RV Campground "also has a small playground appropriate for young children."
Swimming areas: Designated swimming locations provide safer water recreation for children. At Turkey Pass — Lake Thunderbird State Park, facilities include "a boat ramp right here at this campground to the lake" and "an ADA accessible Fishing dock."
Educational opportunities: The nature center offers learning experiences for children. A Critter Alley visitor shared, "The pavilion was perfect for our class and the stars were bright. Bathrooms were right there as well, but could use some work. All in all, would totally go back again. Ernie at the nature center is fantastic and the kids all had a blast."
Tips from RVers
Site selection priorities: Choose sites carefully based on your specific needs. At Turkey Pass, one RVer advised, "50 amp, water, sewer dump station on the way out, concrete pad, picnic table under the shade tree, fire pit, 5g T-Mobile cell service. Trees need to be trimed from the campground, you will get your rig scratched. We have a 40 foot fifthwheel and was able to find several sites that would work fot sat dish."
Hookup variations: Different campgrounds offer varying levels of services. At Little Sandy Campground, an RVer noted, "We had to stay at a spot that was water and electric only... The full hookup sites in the next campground over -- Hickory Hill -- were packed in like sardines."
Spacing considerations: Site density varies considerably between campgrounds and loops. One RVer recommended the "upper loop of Little Sandy was nice with all the trees and the better-spaced sites. In my opinion spot 36 is the best one. No one can camp behind you and there's a lot of space to the south."
