Campgrounds near Ponca City, Oklahoma cluster around Kaw Lake, with several established sites including Osage Cove, Coon Creek Cove, and McFadden Cove offering a mix of tent and RV camping options. The area features both lakeside developed campgrounds with electric hookups and more remote primitive sites. Lake Ponca Campgrounds provides year-round camping within city limits, while Kaw Lake recreation areas offer more extensive facilities including picnic tables, fire rings, and water access. Most campgrounds in this region accommodate both tent and RV camping, with several sites featuring full hookups for recreational vehicles.
Road conditions and campground accessibility vary seasonally throughout the Ponca City area, with many lakeside campgrounds operating primarily from spring through fall. Osage Cove at Kaw Lake operates from March through September, while Bear Creek Cove and Sarge Creek Campground typically open April through October. "Clean campsite. Fire pit had recently been cleaned out. Nice little path down to the water from this spot. No firewood to buy on premises so pick it up in the near town of Ponca City if you want to light a fire," noted one visitor about Sarge Creek. Reservations are recommended for weekend stays, particularly during summer months when lakeside sites fill quickly. Many campgrounds can be reserved through Recreation.gov, while others operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
Waterfront access represents a significant draw for campers in the Ponca City region, with multiple campgrounds offering direct lake access for fishing, swimming, and boating. Kaw Lake campgrounds receive consistently positive reviews for their water access and wildlife viewing opportunities. One camper mentioned, "I really like this lake. I like the campgrounds along the shore. It's a beautiful Lake. I love driving across the dam. On the west side of the dam there is a field with lots of prairie dogs." Sites at Lake Ponca provide convenient access to town amenities while maintaining a natural setting. Most developed campgrounds include basic facilities such as picnic tables and fire rings, with varying levels of hookups available. Campers frequently note the cleanliness of facilities and the abundance of wildlife viewing opportunities, particularly around Kaw Lake where prairie dogs and occasionally bald eagles can be spotted.
$26 - $125 / night
"I really like this lake. I like the campgrounds along the shore. It's a beautiful Lake. I love driving across the dam. On the west side of the dam there is a field with lots of prairie dogs."
"Spent the spring here and really enjoyed the campsites in the middle loop along with the easy access to a decent hiking trail. Weekdays are awesome, but can get crowded on holiday weekends."
$22 / night
"The bathrooms are clean and very well situated. I would stay here again."
$22 / night
"When we were there, the lake was 27 ft. above its limits, with much tree debris in the lake. So, we didn't fish."
"Quaint little rv park nestled up next to the woods! Nice wooded walking trail with access to a private lake beach front. Great size lots and lots of room for rv, vehicle and camp/fire area!"
$26 - $125 / night
"Nice little path down to the water from this spot. Water and electricity available but didn't use this trip. If you hammock camp, the poles on the canopy are perfectly spaced for a great hang."
"Stayed here while barreling across Oklahoma, tent camping. I was able to reserve the last walk in site (Saturday of 4th of July weekend) around 8pm. You can reserve online thru recreation.gov."
TravelerHonestly, pretty decent if you’re just trying to stop for the night, I personally wouldn’t recommend staying for more than a night or two there’s not too much to do outside of kayaking. There was one really cool rock formation.
LegendGreat stop if visiting OSU, Flat sites, super clean, easy navigation, clean clubhouse, and bathrooms
ScoutHidden gem tucked away off the main roads, well maintained and peaceful, great for a night stop over or a several night stay. Highly recommend
TravelerNo longer a KOA but still a nice campground for an overnight stop.
RangerNestled in a forested and very hilly canyon, this state park is absolutely beautiful. A lake with canoe/kayaks for rent and complementary life jackets for use, a river, and many hiking trails. An r.v., campground, tent camping scattered throughout, two playgrounds, a seasonal pool, a tennis court with volleyball in the day use area. Toilets/showers are throughout the park. Tents/yurts and cabins for rent. You're going to love it. Word of warning, the roads are narrow with drop-offs here and there.
TravelerMy husband and I did a zero mile day. This place was great to have as a day spot. Hot showers, clean bathrooms. Quiet. Walking distance to a gas station market and a Mexican restaurant.
GuideThis campground is very clean and well maintained. Excellent shade from all the trees and the sites are decent size. Water and electric available in each site. The bathrooms are clean and very well situated. I would stay here again.
TravelerIt’s an ok campground. It looks like it hasn’t been mowed at all this year. Some of the sites would be hard to get to with all the tall grass. I camped on the back part and it was easy enough to get to. The toilets are just OK. One has the water level pretty high so I wouldn’t use that but the other one would be OK. I’m here in July and nobody else is here.
GuideNot appealing whatsoever. Small, and usually has some people in there that leave messes and stare a lot
The Ponca City area offers several camping options centered around Kaw Lake and Lake Ponca. Most campgrounds provide water access with varying levels of amenities and hookups. The camping season typically runs from spring through fall, with Lake Ponca Campgrounds operating year-round. Temperatures in the region range from summer highs in the 90s to winter lows in the 20s, creating distinct seasonal camping experiences.
Fishing opportunities: At Coon Creek Cove, the cove attracts pelicans early in the morning and provides good fishing conditions. "Get up early and watch the pelicans come in to the cove... Good fishing," notes Christine N. in her review.
Hiking the Eagle View Trail: The trailhead is located at Osage Cove, providing access to natural terrain. "Osage cove also includes the southern trailhead for the Eagle View Trail," according to Nate C., who spent spring at the campground.
Wildlife viewing: The prairie dog colonies near Kaw Lake dam attract campers interested in wildlife observation. The area also hosts bald eagles during certain seasons. "You can pull over and watch them. Sometimes you see bald eagles," mentions a visitor to the area.
Lakefront access: Many sites at McFadden Cove offer direct water views. "It's on the water and beautiful... there were several spots $18.00 per night includes electric and water," reports Deanna S. about this first-come, first-served campground.
Quiet weekday camping: Weekdays provide a more secluded experience at many Kaw Lake campgrounds. "Weekdays are awesome, but can get crowded on holiday weekends," says Nate C. about his stay at Osage Cove.
New facilities: Some camping areas feature updated amenities. Joyce R. notes about Lake Ponca Campgrounds: "New restrooms/showers and electric RV sites with shared water for $25. Park RV on asphalt facing campsite."
Reservation systems vary: Some campgrounds require advance booking through Recreation.gov, while others operate on a first-come basis. "On the site Recreation.gov, it says you cannot reserve a spot. It's first come first serve," explains Deanna S. about McFadden Cove.
Firewood availability: Plan to bring your own firewood as it's not sold at most campgrounds. "No firewood to buy on premises so pick it up in the near town of Ponca City if you want to light a fire," advises Jim H. from Sarge Creek.
Bathroom facilities: Quality of facilities varies significantly between campgrounds. At Sarge Creek, one camper noted: "They have a brand new shower house, but it is very nasty and ill maintained. No place to put your clean clothes without getting them wet."
Playground access: Families with children can utilize the playground facilities at several campgrounds. "Playground, boat ramp, no beach or swim area," reports Christine N. about the amenities at Coon Creek Cove.
Consider noise levels: Some campgrounds experience more noise than others, particularly on weekends. "Every time we've camped there there are dogs barking, kids free roaming causing ruckus, people drunk and constantly playing loud music," warns Tyler S. about weekend conditions.
Private beach options: For families seeking water access away from the main lake areas, The Sandbur RV Park offers alternative facilities. "Nice wooded walking trail with access to a private lake beach front," notes John L. in his review.
Site selection for water views: RVers recommend specific sites for the best experience. "Camp spot 9 and 11 are the closest to the water," advises Julie H. about Washunga Bay, a popular spot for boaters.
Hookup information: Electric and water hookups are available at most established campgrounds, but placement varies. One camper at Osage Cove explains: "There is no water hookup, unless you have a long hose & are close to any of the bathrooms."
Seasonal availability: Bear Creek Cove operates from April 1 to October 31, with different seasonal restrictions at other campgrounds. Washunga Bay has a shorter season, running only from May 1 to September 15.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Lake Ponca campground located in Ponca City?
Lake Ponca Campgrounds is located on the western edge of Ponca City, Oklahoma. This scenic recreation area sits approximately 3 miles from downtown Ponca City, making it easily accessible for both locals and visitors. The campground is situated on the shores of Lake Ponca, a 750-acre reservoir that serves as a popular destination for water activities and outdoor recreation. Visitors can access the campgrounds from Highway 60, following Lake Road that circles the lake's perimeter. The location provides a convenient base for exploring both natural attractions and Ponca City's cultural sites.
Are there any free camping options near Ponca City?
Free camping options near Ponca City are limited, but some potential options exist. Osage Cove - Kaw Lake occasionally offers free camping during off-season periods, though this isn't guaranteed. Some visitors report being allowed to stay without fees during less busy times of year, particularly in late fall or winter months. Additionally, the area around Kaw Lake has some undeveloped shoreline that may permit dispersed camping. Always check with the Army Corps of Engineers who manages the lake for current regulations before setting up camp. For those willing to drive a bit further, public lands in the Osage Hills region sometimes offer primitive camping options with minimal or no fees.
What amenities are available at Lake Ponca camping areas?
Lake Ponca camping areas offer a range of amenities to enhance your camping experience. The campgrounds provide basic facilities including clean restrooms, drinking water access, and designated fire pits at most sites. Many campsites feature electrical hookups for RVs, though availability varies by location. Sarge Creek, located nearby, offers similar amenities with water and electricity available at select sites, plus access paths leading directly to the water. Most Lake Ponca camping areas include picnic tables, and some have covered pavilions for group gatherings. Boat ramps provide easy lake access for fishing and water activities. While not directly at Lake Ponca, nearby The Sandbur RV Park offers additional amenities including laundry facilities, clean bathrooms, and wooded walking trails.
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