Dispersed camping opportunities near Pawhuska, Oklahoma provide access to the natural beauty of northeastern Oklahoma's Osage Hills region. This area, characterized by rolling hills, hardwood forests, and lakes, sits at elevations between 700-1,000 feet above sea level. Camping options range from primitive sites with minimal facilities to developed campgrounds with hookups, often experiencing summer high temperatures above 90°F between June and September.
What to do
Kayaking on Lookout Lake: Visitors can rent kayaks at Osage Hills State Park Campground where a small private lake offers calm waters for beginners. "There is a small private lake with kayaks (Lookout Lake), many hiking trails, a swimming pool, and playground. We saw white tail deer, armadillo, & wild Turkey," notes Pamela B.
Hiking to historic sites: The trails at Osage Hills connect to historical points of interest. "The park is historic for Oklahoma as it was developed by a CCC camp in the 30's. You have the ability to see the work they did and even hike to the camp itself," explains Tom K.
Fishing at Bull Creek: Bull Creek Peninsula - Skiatook Lake offers shore fishing access with less crowded conditions. "I prefer to stay here when I go to Skiatook lake because it is a smaller campground. You can hike thru the woods, across the road and down to an area that has bluffs," says Jennifer D.
What campers like
Clean facilities year-round: Many campers appreciate the consistently maintained facilities at Twin Points Skiatook Lake. "Twin points is a clean, well-maintained campground on Skiatook Lake. Most of our neighbors also seemed to be from nearby towns," reports Travis W.
Quiet waterfront sites: Bull Creek Peninsula offers secluded camping with lake views. "We stayed at site 31. It was on the side with the bluffs. Beautiful sunset overlooking the lake. Trees separated us from the next campsites," shares David H.
Dog-friendly water access: Pet owners enjoy multiple options for their animals to cool off. "This campground is so beautiful. I have to be honest, we're traveling the country and I didn't have high hopes for liking Oklahoma. This campground has changed my mind. The open spaces to walk dogs," says Myranda at Twin Points.
What you should know
Primitive facilities at some sites: Pawhuska Lake (Old City Lake) Dispersed offers free camping but minimal amenities. "This is the old city lake outside of Pawhuska. It is not Bluestem Lake. The Old city lake is smaller and quieter and has no improvements beyond a few picnic tables and a toilet only the desperate would consider using," warns Curtis L.
Wildlife awareness needed: Scorpions and snakes are common in warmer months. "Our stay at Osage Hills was excellent. The showers and facilities were clean, the staff was friendly, and the trails were nice. We went in early fall and found a few scorpions - one in my shoe! So be on the lookout," cautions Dusty G.
Water pressure considerations: RVers should prepare for high water pressure. "You'll want to bring at least 50' of water hose (probably more), as the spigots mostly seemed to be quite a distance from the pads. Also, bring a water hose splitter. Many sites share a single faucet," advises Travis W.
Tips for camping with families
Consider cabins for first-time campers: Tall Chief Cove offers comfort for families new to outdoor experiences. "We love to camp at Tall Chief Cove - Skiatook. We have camped here several times with friends and share the same site, with spots for two campers; right on the lake," recommends Liz R.
Plan for insects: Bug protection is essential in summer months. "The only downside for us was the bugs! So many mosquitos, flies, and bees. Of course, one of the things we forgot to bring was insect repellent," shares Travis W.
Utilize park playgrounds: Many campgrounds feature play areas for children. "The kids like the playground and open field for playing tag. The boat dock is nice and a good place to toss a hook in the water," notes Annie C.
Tips from RVers
Extended stay options: Riverside RV Park offers monthly rates for those wanting to explore the area thoroughly. "Great location, friendly staff, and very reasonable pricing. $395 for the month + electric. Laundry room on site is nice, inexpensive, and includes plenty of washer and dryers," shares Mary N.
Campground selection by size: Some RV parks are more suitable for different rig sizes. "The campground is smaller with a single loop and is most ideal for RV's and boaters. It doesn't offer much privacy from each other but in a group camp or RV it wouldn't be bad at all," explains Tom K. about Tall Chief Cove.
Water equipment considerations: Water pressure varies significantly between campgrounds. "NOTE: BRING A WATER PRESSURE REGULATOR. Their pressure is about 90 psi," emphasizes Dennis P. about facilities at Riverside RV Park.
