Lake Thunderbird State Park sits at an elevation of 1,064 feet above sea level near Norman, Oklahoma, offering camping across multiple areas around a 6,070-acre reservoir. The lake was created in 1965 when the Little River was dammed, creating shoreline camping opportunities throughout Cleveland County. Weather conditions vary significantly throughout the year with summer temperatures often exceeding 95°F while winter nights can drop below freezing.
What to do
Swimming and fishing: Lake Thunderbird State Park offers water activities during warmer months with bass and catfish being common catches. "When I camped there was clean. We stayed a week in a tent fishing camping swimming had a great time," notes a camper at Lake Thunderbird State Park - Rose Rock RV Campground.
Explore hiking trails: Lake Thunderbird provides walking paths suitable for various skill levels. "There is an ADA fishing dock on the lake and equestrian horse trails are available for the traveling horse owners," explains a reviewer at Turkey Pass.
Visit the buffalo: Rockwell RV Park keeps buffalo on the property, making for an unusual attraction. "Stumbled on this park searching for a place to stay heading from the Midwest to Arizona... They sell ice and buffalo (yes, they do) and many other necessities in the cute store that also has free buffalo postcards," shares a visitor at Rockwell RV Park.
What campers like
Well-spaced sites: Many rv parks near Norman, Oklahoma offer comfortable spacing between campsites. "Nice campground, on the lake with spacious camp sites most are pull through. Sites have 50 amp with water hookups, dump station for sewer.. have concrete picnic table, charcoal grill and fire pit," reports a camper at Turkey Pass — Lake Thunderbird State Park.
Convenient location: Proximity to Oklahoma City attractions makes these campgrounds practical bases for exploration. "Twin Fountains is right off where I-35 and I-44 meet in Oklahoma City so it's fairly easy to get to this campground," mentions a reviewer at Twin Fountains RV Park.
Mobile connectivity: Cell service remains reliable at most Norman area campgrounds. "3 bars of 5G for Verison and T-Mobile," notes a visitor at Turkey Pass, while another adds, "Verizon is slower than expected, even at 5g, which is surprising for being so close to the city" regarding service at Roadrunner RV Park.
What you should know
Seasonal weather considerations: Oklahoma experiences severe weather, particularly during spring tornado season. "It is Springtime here in Oklahoma City, so that means tornado season. Not my favorite thing - torrential rains, hail, wind, thunder, lightening, and every bodies favorite - tornadoes!" warns a visitor at Mustang Run RV Park.
Site quality varies: Not all campgrounds maintain the same standards. "Camp sites are very close together. Bathrooms are in a serious need of an update. Lake is about half a mile away from campground. There are little stickers everywhere that get into your pets fur and gets trapped in carpets forcing you to trash any rugs," cautions a reviewer about Rose Rock RV Campground.
Access challenges: Some campgrounds present navigational difficulties. "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," advises a visitor regarding access to Roadrunner RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Look for playgrounds: Several campgrounds offer dedicated children's areas. "Campground also has a small playground appropriate for young children. The bathroom is clean and has a shower, but is dark," notes a visitor at Rose Rock RV Campground.
Consider on-site activities: Roadrunner RV Park provides amenities appealing to families. "Clean showers and laundry room. Host are the best!! Park is well maintained," explains a camper, while another adds that it features "Super friendly and helpful staff!"
Check for entertainment access: Some parks provide transportation to area attractions. "The grand children loved the playgrounds mini golf and especially the limo ride to the science museum," shares a visitor about Twin Fountains RV Park's unique amenity.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Concrete pads at many rv parks near Norman make setup easier. "All concrete and level. Lots of grass for the pups. Sites are a little close for an extended stay," explains a Roadrunner RV Park visitor.
Tree clearance concerns: Watch for low-hanging branches that could damage taller vehicles. "Trees need to be trimed from the campground, you will get your rig scratched. We have a 40 foot fifthwheel and was able to find several sites that would work fot sat dish," warns a Turkey Pass camper.
Extended stay options: Several campgrounds accommodate longer visits. "Stayed for about a week (weekly rate) and was great. They are adding some new sites on the North side of property with concrete pads and full hookups!" reports a visitor at Cleveland County RV Park, which offers direct access to Norman and weekly rates.
