Tent camping at Oologah Lake offers recreational opportunities on a 29,460-acre reservoir formed by the Oologah Dam on the Verdigris River. Located in northeastern Oklahoma where summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F, the lake's shoreline extends 209 miles and provides multiple camping access points. Most campgrounds operate seasonally with reduced services during winter months when nighttime temperatures can drop below freezing.
What to do
Fishing access points: Caney Bend campground provides convenient boat ramp access for anglers targeting the lake's fish population. "I noticed there was a boat ramp which would be a great amenity for someone with a boat/kayak/canoe," notes Ashley F., who also reported seeing "a great amount of wildlife such as birds, woodland critters and even a lizard" during her stay at Caney Bend.
Wildlife observation: The shoreline areas around Oologah Lake support diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. Tent campers regularly spot various birds, small mammals, and occasionally reptiles. Venturing near the dam area allows exploration of rock formations and shoreline habitats. "You can hike the shoreline down a ways and look for shells and cool driftwood," according to Jennifer D.'s review of Newt Graham Lock and Dam.
Night sky viewing: Clear nights at Oologah Lake provide opportunities for stargazing due to minimal light pollution at several campgrounds. The open areas around Verdigris River Park offer unobstructed views of the night sky. Kenneth R. from Huge Great Bus Camping notes their primitive site has "swimming hole and woods" making it suitable for various outdoor activities including nighttime astronomy.
What campers like
Secluded camping options: Several tent sites around the lake offer more privacy than others, particularly at the outer edges of campgrounds. At Verdigris River Park, experienced campers recommend specific locations: "The camping sites are very close together unless you get the very last one. It's near a wooded area," explains Jennifer D. in her review of Verdigris River.
Cabin alternatives: For tent campers seeking more shelter options during inclement weather, some areas offer cabin rentals. "We have camped at Red Bud Bay marina a few times. Love their cabins. We camped once there when it was extremely cold and the water lines froze. But they were right on top of it getting it fixed," reports Ellen P. about Redbud Bay.
Peaceful atmosphere: The less-developed areas around Oologah Lake provide quiet camping experiences away from crowds. "Peaceful. Serene. Secluded," writes jaleesia C. about Three Ponds Community, noting "The land is beautiful and firewood is provided for a small fee."
What you should know
Limited facilities: Many tent camping areas around Oologah Lake lack modern amenities. While some sites have basic facilities, others require complete self-sufficiency. At Huge Great Bus Camping, Kenneth R. describes the situation as "Primitive but upgrades coming" and notes that "Tents, campers, cars, and RVs allowed."
Access challenges: Some camping areas have difficult approach roads requiring careful navigation. Jennifer D. warns about the dam area: "Getting to it is sketchy, the road turns to dirt and there are areas that people unfortunately dump trash... To get to the dam the ground is uneven and steep in some areas. There is no parking lot."
Weather considerations: Oklahoma weather patterns affect camping comfort significantly throughout the year. Winter campers should prepare for freezing temperatures and limited water access. During summer, high temperatures and humidity require adequate hydration and shade structures.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Families with children should consider sites with swimming access and gentle terrain. Multiple tent camping areas offer water access, though supervision is essential. Huge Great Bus Camping specifically mentions having a "swimming hole" that can entertain children during hot summer days.
Wildlife education opportunities: The diverse ecosystems around Oologah Lake provide teaching moments about local flora and fauna. Ashley F. at Caney Bend reports seeing "birds, woodland critters and even a lizard" during her stay, making it suitable for nature education.
Safety considerations: Families should be aware of specific hazards at different camping areas. Jennifer D. advises caution at certain locations: "Watch the rocks on the right side of the dam when the weather is nice because snakes like to hide out in them... they won't bother you."
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: While primarily focused on tent camping, some Oologah Lake campgrounds accommodate small RVs with limitations. Tent campers with vehicle companions should note road conditions and turning radius requirements. Kenneth R. mentions that at Huge Great Bus Camping he meets visitors personally and "guide[s] them in" due to challenging access.
Power options: Most tent camping areas lack electrical hookups, requiring self-contained power solutions. RV campers note that generator restrictions apply at many sites, making solar or battery power preferable for extended stays.
