Camping near Midwest City, Oklahoma ranges from state parks to private RV campgrounds, with seasonal challenges that affect accessibility and comfort. The region experiences frequent drought conditions during summer months, with temperatures often exceeding 95°F from June through August. Winter camping offers milder conditions but temperatures can drop below freezing overnight from December through February, requiring proper cold-weather gear and equipment.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: At Arcadia Lake, trails cater to different skill levels through wooded terrain. "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.
Evening entertainment options: Twin Fountains RV Park offers on-site social activities throughout the week. "Plenty to do for the family. Swimming pool, bar, karaoke. Bathrooms/showers could use some TLC," shares J R. The park also provides unique transportation services: "Love their limo shuttle service, grounds," says Jennifer H.
Fishing access: The south side of Lake Stanley Draper offers multiple fishing docks with quieter waters away from jet skis and motorboats. "We launch from a cove next to the marina parking lot near the boat ramps. Easy in and out. Jet Skis / SeaDoos, tubing, skiers, etc are usually at the south end. Most of the fishing seems to be on the north end," explains Brian B.
What campers like
Private lakefront sites: The layout at Little Axe — Lake Thunderbird State Park provides more separation between campsites than other areas. "Beautiful, wooded park with large lake that has a section for watersports and fishing. I wish we had stayed here for more than one night. I will try to stay on the outer rim the next time we go, so that we can enjoy meals by the water," writes Noelle H.
Proximity to city amenities: Located just minutes from downtown, Central State Park Campground lets campers enjoy both outdoor recreation and urban conveniences. "The park is basic. One small shower house for the whole park, several bathrooms scattered throughout. Trash collection located with the bathrooms. The price reflects the amenities. I think I paid a little over $100 for the entire stay," reports Dale Y.
Unique wildlife viewing: Some campgrounds offer unexpected animal encounters. "This place has it all! Even buffalo! Indoor pool. Nice showers, laundry room, clean bathrooms. Coffee and muffins free in the morning! They have church services on Sunday as well," says Butch S. about Rockwell RV Park.
What you should know
Water quality issues: Several campgrounds in the region have problems with water quality or flooding. At Oklahoma City East KOA, one camper 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!"
Security concerns: Some areas near campgrounds have reported issues with non-campers entering facilities. "Lots of Loitering by non campground patrons," was reported at one location, while another camper mentioned, "Really nice campground, but the campers themselves gave a very strange vibe. In the area where there is tent camping there appeared to be people who were possibly living there full time."
Bathroom maintenance: Facility quality varies significantly across campgrounds. "The bathrooms are atrocious," one camper reported about Wes Watkins Reservoir, while another said about Twin Fountains RV Park, "Only about 10 shower/bathroom combos for an entire campground. Long waits and not cleaned."
Tips for camping with families
Storm shelters: Given Oklahoma's severe weather, seek out campgrounds with designated storm areas. "They have storm shelters on site," notes Amy D. about Oklahoma City East KOA, an important safety feature during tornado season (April-June).
Swimming options: Central State Park Campground offers designated swimming areas away from boating traffic. "The lake is nice and has a swimming area (no dogs allowed at the swimming beach). The campsites are in a different portion of the park than the day use areas, which helps minimize traffic driving by your site," explains Stephen S.
Kid-friendly activities: Some campgrounds provide dedicated recreational facilities for children. "Nice playground for the kids, pool was closed (opens Memorial Day to Labor Day), dog park is large and very well shaded," mentions Rachel P., adding important seasonal information about amenity availability.
Tips from RVers
Flooding preparation: Position RVs on higher ground when possible, especially during spring months. "Nice and level. Long waits and not cleaned. Cell service version and att good. Water spigots at various locations around the park. Sites are fairly level," reports Adam B.
Electric hookup quality: Check amperage before booking as many campgrounds have limited electrical capacity. "Site 201 had a spacious gravel pad, a sturdy picnic table on a concrete pad, a fire pit, a grill, and even a standing-height area that was perfect for setting up our camp kitchen. The site had water, 30/15 amp electric," notes one Nashoba_tohbi.
Parking logistics: Many sites require strategic positioning for larger rigs. "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," advises Rachel P.
