Oklahoma City camping options include natural settings with full hookups just minutes from urban attractions. Most campgrounds remain open year-round with the majority of sites featuring concrete pads for stability during weather changes. Some properties offer swimming pools, mini golf, playgrounds, and storm shelters for visitor safety. Lake access at several locations provides alternatives to city-based camping while still maintaining proximity to metropolitan conveniences.
What to do
Wildlife viewing: Lake Thunderbird State Park offers opportunities to observe deer and other wildlife in their natural habitat. Visitors consistently mention abundant wildlife sightings, especially in the early morning or evening hours. According to one camper at Little Axe — Lake Thunderbird State Park, "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."
Buffalo watching: Observe live bison at Rockwell RV Park where they maintain a small herd on property. These American icons are a unique feature not commonly found at urban campgrounds. One visitor noted, "The kids loved the 7 baby Buffalo on the property," while another mentioned, "They sell ice and buffalo (yes, they do) and many other necessities in the cute store that also has free buffalo postcards."
Lake recreation: Swimming and boating are popular at Arcadia Lake which offers designated swimming areas and boat launches. Most waterfront campsites include direct lake access. A visitor explained, "Great campsite! Picnic tables and fire pits. Walking distance to the beautiful lake. Fairly private site lots of trees between each. Plenty of sites to choose from water front or in the woods."
What campers like
Proximity to urban conveniences: Many of the best places to camp near Oklahoma City provide both natural settings and easy city access. A camper at Central State Park shared, "We have been here many times and will definitely be back. Always easy to get to and a very enjoyable time. Camping sites are away from the day use areas, keeping traffic by the site to a minimum."
Clean facilities: Oklahoma City East KOA consistently receives praise for its maintenance standards. One visitor reported, "Beautiful campground with plenty of amenities at a great price. The spaces were a good size to fit our 45' toyhauler with 2 vehicles (and put the back patio down). There are a fair bit of trees, so big rigs use caution pulling into spaces."
Storm shelters: Several campgrounds feature tornado shelters, important for Oklahoma's severe weather seasons. According to a review for Roadrunner RV Park, "This is a beautifully kept up RV park. Lots of grass, concrete pads, and storm shelters. Easy in and out, except getting into park from Interstate."
On-site dining options: At Twin Fountains RV Park, campers appreciate the convenience of restaurant access. A guest mentioned, "This park is FABULOUS! I have been RVing for 25 years and putting a lot of work into seeking out the best there is in RV parks. It would be enough on its own that is has meticulously landscaped grounds, a pool, hot tub, game room, library, laundry and restaurant, but it goes even further."
What you should know
Water quality varies: Some campgrounds report issues with water clarity. A camper at Oklahoma City East KOA noted, "Water was brown, but we have a Berkey filter, so it wasn't a problem for us. I wouldn't be happy if we didn't have the Berkey, and weren't still winterized. Use your inline filters here!"
Limited shower facilities: During peak seasons, bathroom facilities can become congested at certain locations. One visitor at Oklahoma City East KOA reported, "Great spots and location. Only about 10 shower/bathroom combos for an entire campground. Long waits and not cleaned."
Highway noise: Due to proximity to major interstates, several campgrounds experience traffic sounds. A visitor at Roadrunner RV Park observed, "Close to the highway and hear it, landfill right behind the park too. Hook ups are not great either. Many more full time residents than campers. Close to shopping."
Reservation requirements: Many camping areas around Oklahoma City require advance booking, especially during weekends and holidays from May through September. Less popular campgrounds may offer last-minute availability, but planning ahead is recommended during peak seasons.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several Oklahoma City campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. A visitor at Scissortail Campground mentioned, "The kids loved feeding all the deer. Great clean park!"
Swimming options: During summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 90°F, pools provide welcome relief. At Oklahoma City East KOA, a camper noted, "Nice playground for the kids, pool was closed (opens Memorial Day to Labor Day), dog park is large and very well shaded."
Educational opportunities: Some campgrounds offer nature programs or wildlife viewing chances. A visitor to Rockwell RV Park shared, "We stayed the week of Thanksgiving to visit friends. This park is an awesome place to stop. They have a decent indoor pool, buffalo in an enclosure, and laundry facilities."
Safety considerations: For families concerned about severe weather, verify which campgrounds offer storm shelters. A reviewer at Roadrunner RV Park noted the importance of these facilities, stating they have "lots of grass, concrete pads, and storm shelters" which provide peace of mind during Oklahoma's tornado season.
Tips from RVers
Level sites: Most campgrounds near Oklahoma City provide concrete pads, but quality varies between locations. At Rockwell RV Park, one RVer stated, "All the facilities are clean and modern. Access to I-35 is easy. Approx 3mi to downtown & brick town. No nearby restaurants, but within 3 mi in any direction."
Access challenges: Some RV parks have difficult entry points from major highways. A visitor to Roadrunner RV Park advised, "Easy in and out, except getting into park from Interstate. It is a very dangerous turn across three lanes of traffic to get into park. If traveling North get off one exit early."
Tree clearance: Larger rigs should consider overhead branches at certain campgrounds. A camper at Oklahoma City East KOA warned, "The spaces were a good size to fit our 45' toyhauler with 2 vehicles (and put the back patio down). There are a fair bit of trees, so big rigs use caution pulling into spaces."
Site spacing: Many RV parks position sites close together, limiting privacy. One visitor mentioned, "We had a pull thru spot so easy to get in an out of. Nice and level. We had a picnic table and grill. Lots of shade trees and paved roads made it nice to take walks. The spots were a little close together but not too bad."
