Cedar Lake Campground in the Ouachita National Forest offers tent and RV camping about 30 miles west of Muse, Oklahoma. The area sits at elevations ranging from 1,000-2,500 feet with pine-covered mountains creating cool microclimates compared to surrounding regions. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-95°F during day, dropping to 65-75°F at night, with significant temperature variations between valleys and mountaintops.
What to do
Hiking accessible trails: Cedar Lake features a 3-mile trail around the lake perimeter with minimal elevation changes. At Cedar Lake, "Hiking here is definitely the best, because the views are amazing! The campground is always really well kept as well which I appreciate," notes Ashley W.
Fishing opportunities: Trout fishing at Robbers Cave State Park provides year-round angling just steps from campsites. "Trout fishing just steps away from camp and we had the whole campground to ourselves for the night," reports Neil T. from Robbers Cave State Park.
Wildlife observation: The forests around Muse support diverse wildlife including wild turkeys and various bird species. "Saw a ton of wild turkeys and two cottonmouth snakes," shares Amelia S. from Cedar Lake, highlighting the natural encounters possible in this area.
What campers like
Secluded campsites: Sites at Cedar Lake offer more privacy than many other options in the region. "The campsite spots themselves are pretty big in size and are separated by trees and bushes. Feels very private," notes Ashley W.
Swimming options: Lake Carlton at Robbers Cave State Park provides a natural swimming area with unique features. "The designated swim area has a very rocky drop-off for an entrance, but once out it was very nice swimming. There is a concrete pier that is located along the swim ropes that you can climb up and jump off of," explains Kyle H.
Yurt accommodations: Yurt camping near Muse, Oklahoma provides climate-controlled alternatives to traditional tent camping. At CMA Iron Mountain, "we rented a bunk cabin for the USCA rally and I loved it price was right accommodations perfect," shares Rick P., though he cautions about potential cedar allergies.
What you should know
Bathroom facilities vary: Facilities range from modern to rustic across campgrounds. At Robbers Cave State Park, one camper noted: "The structure is very old and very dated stone structure, where you might find frogs sitting on shower curtains, spiders, and lizards."
Reservation requirements: Most yurt accommodations near Muse require advance planning. At Queen Wilhelmina State Park, campsite options are limited, with one camper advising: "You should also look at reservations during peak seasons as the limited availability will make this park fill up fast."
Drinking water access: Cedar Lake provides water fill stations near the entrance. "Vaulted toilets on site and a place to fill up your water!" mentions Ashley W.
Quiet hours enforcement: Many campgrounds implement noise restrictions. Cedar Lake enforces a 10 p.m. quiet hour, with one camper noting, "This is nice because there aren't people partying all night long."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming alternatives: Beyond lakes, look for constructed swimming facilities. "There was a pool with two water slides and a splash zone, it is $5 dollars to enter for the entire day," reports Kyle H. about Robbers Cave State Park.
Activity scheduling: Many parks offer organized activities throughout the week. "When you get to camp they will give you a schedule of all the events that are going on throughout the week you are staying," explains Kyle H. from Robbers Cave State Park.
Accessible camping options: For families with mobility concerns, consider terrain limitations. "We tried a few trails but were too hard for us. We have a daughter with cerebral palsy that we pull in a wagon and the trails were too rough for the wagon," shares Matt B.
Mini golf options: Seasonal recreation includes mini golf courses, though conditions vary. At Robbers Cave, "My son also got to play miniature for the first time at the course located next to the pool. One word of warning the golf course is very dated with carpet ripped or completely missing in spots," notes Kyle H.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: For maximum privacy, select specific areas within campgrounds. "I will stay in the old circle campgrounds next time, they looked like they had bigger spots with more privacy than whispering pines," advises Matt B. from Robbers Cave.
Leveling considerations: Sites at Shadow Mountain Campground offer full hookups but may require leveling equipment. One camper noted the campground has "Sewer hook ups on almost every site and a lot of trees and well shaded area, but little tight place and not well leveled."
Supply planning: Remote locations require bringing all necessities. At Queen Wilhelmina State Park, Jennifer O. advises, "Don't forget the ice, there's nothing close."
