Best Campgrounds near Ponca City, OK

Campgrounds near Ponca City, Oklahoma cluster around Kaw Lake, with several established sites including Osage Cove, Coon Creek Cove, and McFadden Cove offering a mix of tent and RV camping options. The area features both lakeside developed campgrounds with electric hookups and more remote primitive sites. Lake Ponca Campgrounds provides year-round camping within city limits, while Kaw Lake recreation areas offer more extensive facilities including picnic tables, fire rings, and water access. Most campgrounds in this region accommodate both tent and RV camping, with several sites featuring full hookups for recreational vehicles.

Road conditions and campground accessibility vary seasonally throughout the Ponca City area, with many lakeside campgrounds operating primarily from spring through fall. Osage Cove at Kaw Lake operates from March through September, while Bear Creek Cove and Sarge Creek Campground typically open April through October. "Clean campsite. Fire pit had recently been cleaned out. Nice little path down to the water from this spot. No firewood to buy on premises so pick it up in the near town of Ponca City if you want to light a fire," noted one visitor about Sarge Creek. Reservations are recommended for weekend stays, particularly during summer months when lakeside sites fill quickly. Many campgrounds can be reserved through Recreation.gov, while others operate on a first-come, first-served basis.

Waterfront access represents a significant draw for campers in the Ponca City region, with multiple campgrounds offering direct lake access for fishing, swimming, and boating. Kaw Lake campgrounds receive consistently positive reviews for their water access and wildlife viewing opportunities. One camper mentioned, "I really like this lake. I like the campgrounds along the shore. It's a beautiful Lake. I love driving across the dam. On the west side of the dam there is a field with lots of prairie dogs." Sites at Lake Ponca provide convenient access to town amenities while maintaining a natural setting. Most developed campgrounds include basic facilities such as picnic tables and fire rings, with varying levels of hookups available. Campers frequently note the cleanliness of facilities and the abundance of wildlife viewing opportunities, particularly around Kaw Lake where prairie dogs and occasionally bald eagles can be spotted.

Best Camping Sites Near Ponca City, Oklahoma (63)

    1. Osage Cove - Kaw Lake

    5 Reviews
    Ponca City, OK
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (580) 762-5611

    $26 - $125 / night

    "I really like this lake. I like the campgrounds along the shore. It's a beautiful Lake. I love driving across the dam. On the west side of the dam there is a field with lots of prairie dogs."

    "Spent the spring here and really enjoyed the campsites in the middle loop along with the easy access to a decent hiking trail. Weekdays are awesome, but can get crowded on holiday weekends."

    2. Coon Creek Cove

    4 Reviews
    Ponca City, OK
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (580) 762-5611

    $26 - $30 / night

    3. Lake Ponca Campgrounds

    3 Reviews
    Ponca City, OK
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (580) 767-0430

    4. McFadden Cove

    2 Reviews
    Ponca City, OK
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (580) 762-5611

    5. Rivershire RV Resort & Camping

    2 Reviews
    Ponca City, OK
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (580) 716-0788

    $35 / night

    6. Lake Ponca

    1 Review
    Ponca City, OK
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (580) 767-0430

    7. Bear Creek Cove

    1 Review
    Ponca City, OK
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (580) 762-5611

    $22 / night

    "When we were there, the lake was 27 ft. above its limits, with much tree debris in the lake. So, we didn't fish."

    8. The Sandbur RV Park

    1 Review
    Burbank, OK
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (580) 761-5140

    "Quaint little rv park nestled up next to the woods! Nice wooded walking trail with access to a private lake beach front. Great size lots and lots of room for rv, vehicle and camp/fire area!"

    9. Sarge Creek

    3 Reviews
    Burbank, OK
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (580) 762-5611

    $26 - $125 / night

    "Nice little path down to the water from this spot. Water and electricity available but didn't use this trip. If you hammock camp, the poles on the canopy are perfectly spaced for a great hang."

    "Stayed here while barreling across Oklahoma, tent camping. I was able to reserve the last walk in site (Saturday of 4th of July weekend) around 8pm. You can reserve online thru recreation.gov."

    10. Washunga Bay

    1 Review
    Burbank, OK
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (580) 762-5611

    $26 - $28 / night

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Showing results 1-10 of 63 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Ponca City, OK

147 Reviews of 63 Ponca City Campgrounds



Guide to Ponca City

Camping near Ponca City, OK, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Nature Trails: Explore the scenic trails at Osage Hills State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, "Great trails, clean, HEATED bathrooms and showers," making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.
  • Fishing and Swimming: At Salt Plains State Park Campground, you can enjoy fishing and swimming. A visitor shared, "The beach/access to the lake is very near the RV sites," highlighting the convenience for water activities.
  • Stargazing: Many campers rave about the clear night skies. One review from Osage Hills State Park Campground noted, "Great stargazing on a clear night," perfect for those who love to gaze at the stars.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. A review for Keystone State Park Campground stated, "The bathrooms were the nicest, cleanest bathrooms from a campsite I have ever seen."
  • Spacious Campsites: Many enjoy the spaciousness of the sites. A visitor at Lake Carl Blackwell mentioned, "Lakeside spots are spacious and well kept," making it a great choice for families.
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often highlight the helpfulness of the staff. One review for Twin Points Skiatook Lake said, "The hosts are great, great state park," which adds to the overall experience.

What you should know:

  • Water Availability: Some campgrounds have limited water access. For instance, at Lake McMurtry West Campground, a camper advised, "Make sure to have a 50 ft water hose as the water spouts are on the opposite side of most camper locations."
  • Noise Levels: Be prepared for potential noise, especially during busy weekends. A review for Keystone State Park Campground mentioned, "The only complaint is it seems there is a bar or something of the sorts and the drumming is loud."
  • Seasonal Access: Some campgrounds have specific seasons. For example, COE Lake Skiatook Twin Points is open from April 1 to October 30, so plan your visit accordingly.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Playgrounds and Activities: Look for campgrounds with family-friendly amenities. Twin Points Skiatook Lake has an awesome playground and basketball goal, making it a hit with kids.
  • Safety and Cleanliness: Many families appreciate the presence of park rangers. A camper at Osage Hills State Park Campground noted, "A park ranger would drive by every couple of hours so I felt very safe."
  • Heated Facilities: During cooler months, heated bathrooms can be a lifesaver. One family shared their experience at Salt Plains State Park Campground, saying, "HEATED super clean bathrooms (it was around 45 degrees at night when we went so this was a welcome sight)."

Tips from RVers:

  • Electric Hookups: Ensure your chosen campground has electric hookups. Campers at Lake Carl Blackwell appreciated the availability of electric at every site.
  • Space for Maneuvering: Look for campgrounds that allow easy access for larger RVs. A review for Lake McMurtry West Campground mentioned, "The maneuvering space needed to back a large trailer is more than sufficient."
  • Bring Extra Supplies: Some RVers recommend bringing extra supplies like water hoses and connectors. A camper at Twin Points Skiatook Lake advised, "You'll want to bring at least 50' of water hose, as the spigots mostly seemed to be quite a distance from the pads."

Camping near Ponca City, OK, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. With clean facilities, friendly staff, and plenty of activities, it’s a great spot to unwind and enjoy nature.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Ponca City, OK?

According to TheDyrt.com, Ponca City, OK offers a wide range of camping options, with 63 campgrounds and RV parks near Ponca City, OK and 1 free dispersed camping spot.

Which is the most popular campground near Ponca City, OK?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Ponca City, OK is Osage Cove - Kaw Lake with a 4.4-star rating from 5 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Ponca City, OK?

According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near Ponca City, OK.