Camping near Okay, Oklahoma includes several Corps of Engineers campgrounds around Fort Gibson Lake and Tenkiller Lake. Most sites are situated at elevations between 600-800 feet, creating varied shorelines with limestone bluffs and wooded areas. Summer temperatures typically reach 90-100°F with high humidity, while spring and fall offer milder conditions in the 60-80°F range.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Taylor Ferry Campground offers good fishing spots along Fort Gibson Lake. "Great place to camp and boat. Good fishing spots as well," notes Tyler H. The campground provides access to catfish, bass, and crappie fishing.
Scuba diving: Chicken Creek Campground provides access to Lake Tenkiller's clear waters. "Lake Tenkiller is an amazing location to scuba dive. It's waters are clear and cool from a distance of 8 to 28 feet. A diver will have the opportunity to investigate a sunken airplane fuselage, school bus, helicopter and two boats," according to one visitor.
Hiking trails: Several campgrounds offer access to hiking paths. Hawthorn Bluff provides "hiking trails are nice although I have been a couple of times and had a TON of ticks but not very often." The trails range from easy shoreline walks to more challenging wooded paths.
What campers like
Quiet atmosphere: Many campers appreciate the peaceful environment. "We loved our stay here. Everyone was so kind and respectful. The campground host and his dog were excellent and so helpful! We enjoyed swimming and taking a breather from our roadtrip. Quite peaceful and room to explore!" writes Samantha L. about Blue Creek Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Several campgrounds offer opportunities to observe local wildlife. "I saw some old oyster mushrooms all over the place possibly some lions mane 💓 I had a great time," mentions Elizabeth B. about Taylor Ferry Campground. Deer, turkey, and various bird species are commonly spotted.
Lake access: Most campsites offer convenient water access. "The lake was beautiful at sunset. The bathroom was clean, our spot had a covered picnic table, grill and fire ring," reports Elizabeth L. about Blue Creek. Many campgrounds feature boat ramps, swimming areas, and fishing docks.
What you should know
Lake level fluctuations: Water levels can vary seasonally. "We were told that the lake would be low for the next two years for reconstruction of the dam. Because of the low water you can walk very far into the water from where we we're staying," notes Elizabeth B. Check current conditions before planning water activities.
Limited hookups: Many campgrounds lack full hookups. "The campground is great except no sewer connections. The boat ramp is fantastic, great views of the lake and plenty of trees most sites are shaded," states Royce A. about Taylor Ferry. Bring appropriate self-contained systems.
Gate hours: Chicken Creek Campground enforces access hours. "Gates going in locked at 10:00 p.m. and open at 6:00 a.m.," advises Mark J. Plan arrivals and departures accordingly, especially for late-night activities.
Seasonal operations: Many campgrounds have limited operating seasons. "Peak Season April 01, 2021- September 30, 2021. First-come, First-served October 01, 2021- November 30, 2021," notes one reviewer about Chicken Creek. Check opening dates before planning trips in early spring or late fall.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming areas: Several campgrounds offer designated swim areas. "The swim beach was well kept and easily accessible with free life jacket loaners," mentions Stephen R. about Hawthorn Bluff. Always supervise children near water.
Playground equipment: Some campgrounds include facilities for children. "They offer fishing docks, boat launches, plenty of bank to fish from as well as small playground equipment in a few places for the kids," adds Stephen R. about Hawthorn Bluff, making it suitable for families with younger children.
Site selection caution: Be mindful of potential hazards when selecting sites. "Lake side spots are not advisable if you have little ones, the bluffs are very close to the fire pits and have about a 30ft drop," warns Douglas about Hawthorn Bluff. Request sites away from steep shorelines when camping with small children.
Tips from RVers
Limited electric sites: Reserve electric hookup sites early, especially at popular campgrounds. "Only seven 50 amp spots and no sewer sites but the campground is great," advises Mark J. about Chicken Creek.
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain. "The site was slanted so much that we could not get level front to back. We moved a couple of times and tried all combination of stacking lumber under the tongue jack but still had to sleep with our heads at the foot end of our bed," reports Ron K. about Hawthorn Bluff. Bring leveling blocks.
Alternative equestrian options: While none of the immediate campgrounds near Okay offer horse facilities, Sallisaw-Fort Smith West KOA provides a convenient stopping point when traveling to equestrian areas. "Nice clean campground, level sites FHU. Everything worked as expected. Easy friendly check-in. Would definitely stay here again," notes Robert O. This campground can serve as a base while transporting horses to nearby riding trails.
