Tent camping areas around Norman, Oklahoma range from lakeside locations to unique farm settings, with varied rules and conditions. Camping in this region benefits from Oklahoma's moderate spring and fall temperatures, though summer heat often exceeds 90°F. The predominantly flat terrain with occasional rolling hills provides easy access to most campsites, while the region's oak and hickory forests offer partial shade at many locations.
What to do
Water recreation opportunities: At Romulus Lake, the water is ideal for non-motorized activities as one camper noted, "Great camping, lake is great for canoeing or kayaking." This smaller lake provides a quieter alternative to larger bodies of water in the region.
Fishing excursions: Liberty Lake offers productive fishing opportunities according to visitors. As one reviewer mentioned, "It's a great spot to fish though catfish largemouth and crappie being the usuals." The lake is substantial enough that "you'll need a boat to see most of the lake."
Animal interaction: At Lazy H Alpaca Ranch, visitors can experience a working farm while camping. One camper shared, "We got to pet the Alpacas and the 3 Great Pyrenees kept us company." This provides a unique alternative to traditional outdoor recreation.
What campers like
Secluded waterfront sites: Campers appreciate the privacy found at some locations. A Liberty Lake visitor remarked, "It was super quiet and calm. The campsites were minimal but had lots of space and were right on the lake."
Spacious communal areas: At Shawnee Twin Lakes, campers enjoy the generous setup: "Nice, spacious, clean campsites all with fire pits with attached grill! Concrete picnic tables at every site make it nice for large groups and for board games."
Unique accommodation options: Beyond traditional tent camping, visitors enjoy creative alternatives. A visitor to OK Treehouse shared, "Cool Treehouse with double bed. Outdoor Shower and camping toilet, kitchen. Groovy outdoor space with fire pit."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Winter camping requires preparation. One Lazy H Alpaca Ranch camper noted, "We camped early Jan and it was cold." Most campgrounds remain open year-round but expect limited services during winter months.
Facility conditions vary widely: Some campgrounds maintain better facilities than others. At North Sentinel, one camper warned about maintenance issues: "Don't expect to use your fire pit without cleaning weeks worth of trash out of it."
Campground closures: Always verify current status before traveling. One reviewer discovered at Shawnee Twin Lakes that "The designated campground is now closed to camping. We ended up staying at the boat ramp."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: For families with children, swimming locations vary in quality. At Shawnee Twin Lakes, one camper shared their experience: "My wife went swimming and said the water was nice. There were some people skiing on the lake."
Playground access: Several campgrounds include family-friendly amenities. A visitor to Shawnee Twin Lakes noted, "There is a playground and picnic pavilion which would be good for families."
Wildlife awareness: Parents should monitor children around wildlife. At Lazy H Alpaca Ranch, the interaction with animals can be educational but requires supervision as "the 3 Great Pyrenees kept us company" during one family's stay.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: RVers camping near Norman should note most sites have minimal amenities. At Shawnee Twin Lakes, a camper reported, "We did fine tent camping but nothing for electric hook ups."
Road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds may present challenges for larger vehicles. A Liberty Lake visitor described how "the road turned to packed rock and dirt and started to get more and more remote in appearance."
Parking arrangements: Most campsites provide adequate parking space. At Liberty Lake, a reviewer observed that "The parking lot is bigger than the grass areas you have to work with," indicating sufficient space for vehicles but limited tent setup areas.
