Bell Cow Lake offers several camping areas for those seeking equestrian trails near Meeker, Oklahoma. Located about 30 miles southeast of Meeker, this campground maintains a year-round presence in central Oklahoma with elevations around 900 feet. The lake's red clay soil creates distinctive riding conditions on the trails, with water levels typically remaining consistent except during drought periods.
What to do
Explore equestrian trails: Lake Thunderbird State Park offers multiple trail options for riders seeking variety. "We have taken our family to Arcadia many times to camp. While it's close to the city, it feels far away. Lake activities and hiking are available," notes Angela H. of Arcadia Lake.
Try lake fishing: Sportsman's Lake restricts watercraft to fishing boats, kayaks and canoes. "It is a nice little campground that has R.V. camping and tent camping. The fishing is pretty good. They also have trails for riding horses," reports Melanie W. about Sportsmans Lake.
Visit multiple lakes: Some permits cover multiple bodies of water. "Permit allows you access to both Bell Cow and Chandler Lake. I think the area is rather heavily fished. Restrictions on size of fish (and number) you can keep," explains Christine N., who stayed at Bell Cow Area B.
What campers like
Quiet camping atmosphere: Many equestrian campers appreciate the peaceful setting. "Very pleasantly surprised by this campground. Has everything you need for pretty cheap ($11 for tent/no hookup) including bathrooms, tables, trash, water and more. Only one other car on a weeknight in April, so very quiet and peaceful," shares Rachel S. about Bell Cow Lake Campground C.
Security presence: Regular patrols add to camper comfort. "Frequent Chandler police patrols, which we really appreciated," notes Christine N. about her stay at Bell Cow Lake.
Swimming options: After trail rides, cooling off is convenient. "Peaceful and quiet lake. We stayed mid week and our sons had a blast kayaking. The only boat traffic were those fishing, and they didn't seem to mind our sons rowing," says Cindy B. about Stroud Municipal Lake.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Spring offers particular advantages for equestrian campers. "Bathrooms were kind of gross but I expect that's due to visiting in a shoulder season," notes Rachel S. about Bell Cow Lake in April.
Trail conditions: Rain affects trail usability significantly. "It had recently rained a lot, so I had a thick layer of red mud on my shoes from the hike, but glad I hiked it," explains Leslie N. regarding the trails at Bell Cow Lake.
Lake restrictions: Different lakes have various rules about motorized boats. "Lake is full of stumps and trees which keeps the boats at a slower speed," observes Christine N. about Bell Cow Lake. At Sportsmans Lake, "It is a nice city run lake. It is a good lake for kayaking, fishing and swimming. It has become popular for kayaking," says Melanie W.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Animal sightings enhance family trips. "Sunrise is beautiful and so are the stars. There are many geese on this lake, they have there own island where they hatch their babies every year. Lots of raccoons and a couple foxes," shares Melanie W. about South Dam - Lake Thunderbird State Park.
Swimming areas: Many sites offer dedicated swimming spots. "It has a nice swimming area and even on the hottest days the water feels good because it is a spring fed lake," notes Melanie W. about Sportsmans Lake.
Playground access: Some campgrounds include play equipment. "There is a picnic table and a grill at each site. Area C is more popular, looks to have better facilities. It also has a fixed corral, and a nicer beach, but it more crowded," mentions Christine N. about Bell Cow Lake areas.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Different campground areas offer varying experiences. "Area B is quieter and less popular than area C, but it is a little bit more rustic. The dump location is near the restrooms by the boat dock. It's a little hidden," advises Christine N. about Bell Cow Lake.
Water levels: Lake conditions affect boating accessibility. "Lake is calm & shallow, so it is best for small boats and kayaks," explains Leslie N. about Bell Cow Lake Campground C.
Utilities: Hookups vary by location within each campground. "Campground C area offers many pull through RV sites and some back-in RV sites, all with electric & water hook ups. There is also equestrian RV sites with pens, tent camping with shared water spigots, primitive tent camping and a dump station," notes Leslie N. from Little Axe — Lake Thunderbird State Park.
