Campgrounds near Ponca City, Oklahoma offer a mix of electric and primitive sites with varied levels of amenities and lakeside access. The area features several Corps of Engineers campgrounds around Kaw Lake with spacious sites priced between $15-25 per night. Most campgrounds remain open from April through October, with a few locations offering year-round accessibility for tent and RV camping.
What to do
Hike the Eagle View Trail: Osage Cove serves as the southern trailhead for the Eagle View Trail, providing a moderate hiking experience with lake views. "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," notes Nate C. about Osage Cove.
Visit the prairie dog colony: Located on the west side of Kaw Lake dam, this wildlife viewing area offers a unique opportunity to observe prairie dogs in their natural habitat. "On the west side of the dam there is a field with lots of prairie dogs. I love watching the little Prarie Dogs. You can pull over and watch them," shares a visitor from Osage Cove.
Fish for striped bass: Kaw Lake offers productive fishing opportunities, particularly for striped bass near the dam area. "Kaw Lake dam is a short drive from the dam and can be an excellent striped bass or hybrid striped bass fishing area," according to experienced anglers at Sarge Creek.
What campers like
Scenic lake views: Several campgrounds provide direct lake access and water views. "Perfect lake views, beautiful sunset, very quiet & peaceful. Couldn't ask for a better night stay!" reports Brittany G. about her pet-friendly camping experience at Osage Cove - Kaw Lake.
Quiet weekday camping: Most campgrounds around Ponca City experience lighter usage during weekdays, providing a more peaceful experience. "Although you will travel the countryside and down a gravel road, you will enjoy the quiet and lovely grounds that Neal takes such good care of," writes Dana H. about Bear Creek Cove.
Water access paths: Many sites feature direct paths to the water. "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," explains Jim H. about his stay at Sarge Creek.
What you should know
Limited facilities at some locations: Bathroom and shower availability varies significantly between campgrounds. "The campground seems to have lots of room. It's on the water and beautiful although on the site Recreation.gov, it says you cannot reserve a spot. It's first come first serve there were several spots $18.00 per night includes electric and water," reports Deanna S. about McFadden Cove.
Water hookup locations: Water access points are sometimes shared between multiple sites. "There is no water hookup, unless you have a long hose & are close to any of the bathrooms," notes a camper about water availability at Sandy Park.
Seasonal lake conditions: The lake level can fluctuate significantly. "When we were there, the lake was 27 ft. above its limits, with much tree debris in the lake. So, we didn't fish. However, you can see where the grounds keeper mowed paths to where the lake would have been," explains Dana H.
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: Some campgrounds feature playground equipment for children. "Playground, boat ramp, no beach or swim area. Good fishing," notes Christine N. about Coon Creek Cove.
Avoid holiday crowds: Holiday weekends can become crowded and noisy at the more popular sites. "The campground itself is quiet even though it was full. We did like the fact that the Park Ranger was present and making rounds frequently," shares Monte C.
Security considerations: Campground security varies by location. "We did like the fact that the Park Ranger was present and making rounds frequently. We will stay again in the future to give it another chance and maybe a higher rating," reports a camper at Coon Creek Cove.
Tips from RVers
Dumping station locations: Not all campgrounds with RV sites have on-site dumping stations. "Grounds has its own dumpstation. Trash. Playground. Showers and public toilets. Water and electricity hookups," reports a camper about Bear Creek Cove.
Site positioning for RVs: Some campgrounds have specific RV parking requirements. "Park RV on asphalt facing campsite. Tent camping area is $15 has picnic tables but no electricity or water and restrooms/showers are on other side of campground," explains Joyce R. about Lake Ponca Campgrounds.
RV site sizing: While many campgrounds accommodate RVs, size restrictions may apply. "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!" notes John L. about The Sandbur RV Park.
