Camping areas around Pauls Valley, Oklahoma consist primarily of lakeside sites on relatively flat terrain with elevations between 750-950 feet. Summer temperatures frequently exceed 95°F with overnight lows rarely dropping below 70°F during peak season. Winter camping remains viable with daytime temperatures often reaching the 50s, though facilities at some locations operate seasonally with reduced amenities from November through March.
What to do
Creek swimming at natural falls: Turner Falls Park features natural waterfalls with swimming areas that vary seasonally. "Fun area with waterfall, camping, swimming, and zip lines. You have to pay to enter the park and than you have access to everything inside including restaurants and stores," notes Tyler S., who adds there's "a cave in an off the trail area back behind the bathrooms at the waterfall."
Kayaking at smaller lakes: Pauls Valley City Lake Campground is ideal for kayaking with rental options available at some locations. "We enjoy kayaking and didn't have any trouble with it being too busy. If you kayak, head to the northeast side of the lake. There is a spot where you can land your rig, get out and have a picnic," shares Brian B.
Wildlife viewing: Chickasaw National Recreation Area offers opportunities to observe deer and other wildlife. "When the sun starts setting the wildlife start to appear. 3 deer passed right by our campsite with no fear. And I watched a family of squirrels having a good day in a tree we had our tarp tied to," says Erin-Frannie R. from The Point Campground.
What campers like
Lakeside camping options: R.C. Longmire Lake offers sites near water with good fishing. "Big rig friendly on a few sites. Lots of trees. Sites are not real level but very usable. Fire rings and tables most sites. Small playground for the kids and the boat ramp is right there. Good Crappie and Catfish in the lake," according to Eddie S.
Modern facilities at some locations: Buckhorn Campground at Chickasaw NRA maintains clean facilities with solar showers. "The bathrooms and showers were very clean, which was a really nice surprise!" notes Jasmine M., who adds, "We stayed at site 71 and it was just an amazing site. It's got the benefit of being the last site on the walk up trail so you get a lot of space to play around!"
Relative affordability: Cold Springs Campground offers budget-friendly sites with easy payment options. "The pay kiosk has to be one of my favorites at a site as it takes debit cards and is very easy to operate," shares Crystal C., who appreciates the convenience for last-minute campers.
What you should know
Reservation processes vary significantly: Turner Falls Park requires advance planning during peak seasons. "Busy as can be lots of people. If you like to camp and be secluded this isn't the park. There are a couple great spots but they go fast. We got here on Wednesday and most of the secluded spots were taken," reports Zahru A.
Insect concerns: Several campgrounds report tick issues during warmer months. "We stayed at 62. Not far from most things. But our site was infested with ticks. We're leaving early because of this. (We brought the dog) other than that, it's a great place," warns Teresa S. at Cold Springs Campground.
Limited cell coverage beyond developed areas: Reception varies significantly by carrier and location. Most RV parks maintain usable service, while more remote tent sites have limited connectivity. The Point Campground notes: "There is NO cell or internet signal other than one sweet spot by the bathrooms, so you may get a surge of texts and missed call notifications while you're doing your business."
Tips for camping with families
Scout multiple campgrounds: The best places to camp near Pauls Valley for families include options with playground facilities. "Small playground for the kids and the boat ramp is right there," notes Eddie S. about R.C. Longmire Lake, making it suitable for younger children.
Consider educational opportunities: The Point Campground provides access to nature programs. "Things to do: Visit the Nature Center, Hike the spring trails, Multiple swimming area along the road to the nature center, Little Niagara, See the bisons, Hike the top of Bromide lookout," lists Jon B.
Plan for weather extremes: Temperature fluctuations can be significant, even in shoulder seasons. "I camped here in November and was not at all prepared for how cold it was at night. We arrived after dark and set up and went to sleep right away," shares Hannah F. about Turner Falls Park, highlighting the need for proper gear.
Tips from RVers
Select sites based on levelness: Arrowhead RV & Tiny House Park offers well-maintained pads. "Mary Hope, owner of this clean and beautiful park, has created a living space here that is simply wonderful. My wife and I love this park and never want to leave!" shares Justin M.
Underground storm shelters: Some RV parks provide tornado safety features. "They have two very large safe rooms underground with ventilation in case of severe weather. Great idea," notes James K. about T&R RV Resort, an important consideration during severe weather seasons.
Concrete pad availability: Green Park RV Resort features improved parking surfaces. "The rv park is clean, lots of space in each spot with full hookups at all spaces. 30/50 amps at all spots as well. It's not a campground feeling, but still a nice little park," explains Kenneth P., highlighting the trade-off between natural setting and convenience.
