Best Campgrounds near Poteau, OK

Camping options around Poteau, Oklahoma range from state park campgrounds to resort accommodations across the Ouachita Mountain region. Lake Wister State Park offers several campground areas including Quarry Island, Victor, and Wards Landing with facilities for tent and RV camping as well as cabin rentals. Long Lake Resort provides camping with amenities such as electric hookups, water access, and sewer connections. Heavener Runestone Park, located south of Poteau, features tent camping with scenic views and access to hiking trails that lead to the historic runestone.

Reservations are required at most developed campgrounds, particularly at Lake Wister State Park facilities. Many campgrounds in the region maintain seasonal availability, with Below the Dam Campground offering seasonal access for campers. Road conditions are generally good for most camping areas, though several reviews indicate navigation can be challenging. A recent review noted, "First, the actual campground is not easy to find. Don't go to the park office where the GPS wants you to go, the campground is further down the road. Then there is a sign at the entrance that you must make a reservation online."

Several camping areas provide waterfront access, with many campers highlighting fishing opportunities as a primary attraction. Lake Wister State Park campgrounds feature varying levels of amenities, from primitive sites to full hookup locations. RV sites at Victor Landing are described as being "laid out badly and way too close to each other," while Wards Landing is noted for being "not as cramped." Heavener Runestone Park receives consistent praise for its peaceful setting and hiking trails, with one visitor describing it as a "hidden gem" with "hiking trails that are fun and well marked." The campgrounds in the region typically offer basic amenities including restrooms, some with showers, and picnic tables. Winter camping is specifically mentioned as pleasant at several locations, with one review stating Heavener Runestone Park is "great for winter camping" when the campground is less crowded.

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Best Camping Sites Near Poteau, Oklahoma (131)

    1. Heavener Runestone Park

    9 Reviews
    Heavener, OK
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (918) 653-2241

    $15 - $20 / night

    "We stopped to see the runestone on our way back home from camping at Lake Wister. Wooded and clean, with a small gift shop (closed when we got there)."

    "Totally worth the drive from Tulsa. The park is beautiful and secluded, very clean and well kept. It has some really fun little themed touches in keeping with the Viking Runestone."

    2. Victor Campground — Lake Wister State Park

    6 Reviews
    Wister, OK
    11 miles
    Website

    "However, our RV is 35 FT long and while it’s rated for this length it was a little difficult to back into, because of surrounding trees. the view was right on the water edge. sunrise and sunset was great"

    "Very nice lake views. Birdwatching is pretty good. Check out Spiro Mounds and Heavener Runestone, less than an hour's drive from Wister Lake."

    3. Quarry Island Campground — Lake Wister State Park

    4 Reviews
    Wister, OK
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (918) 581-2965

    $16 - $29 / night

    "We really enjoy Lake Wister. It is never overcrowded."

    "There were 5 RV sites with full hook ups on isle, even though #4 and # 5 are so close to each other that slide outs could bump into each other, and 2 very nice RV sites with only water and electric on"

    4. Wards Campground — Lake Wister State Park

    3 Reviews
    Wister, OK
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (918) 655-7756

    "connections as we as the sites on the island, but the traffic on the island is terrible, there is a splash pad at the park along with a put put golf corse, and if you go into Wister, stop by the old Frisco trail"

    5. Long Lake Resort

    1 Review
    Poteau, OK
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (918) 647-8140

    $35 - $40 / night

    "They have hiking trails and 2 private lakes. The RV area looked new because all of the power boxes had 50/30 and 120 outlets and breakers which is super cool."

    6. Cedar Lake (Oklahoma) Equestrian Camp

    12 Reviews
    Hodgen, OK
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (918) 653-2991

    $15 - $40 / night

    "We completed this campout with another family and this is our favorite campout in Oklahoma. The large pines, the facilities and the hiking is wonderful. Cedar lake is beautiful."

    "we took a group of Trail Life boys there and we had a good time. There are plenty of good trails near by and we used Cedar Lake as our basecamp."

    7. Below the Dam Campground — Lake Wister State Park

    2 Reviews
    Wister, OK
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (918) 655-7756

    "All reservations are done through the state's pay line and can be easily done however if you are struggling I was told you can also stop at the Corp site for some guidance (office just at entrance)."

    8. Cedar Lake Equestrian Campground

    6 Reviews
    Hodgen, OK
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (501) 321-5202

    $10 - $23 / night

    "This was mine and my mom's favorite place to camp in Oklahoma. The campground is heavily forested with pine trees and there are some sites right off the lake."

    "It’s wonderful in the fall when the leaves are changing, the days are cooler, and the nights are perfect for gathering around a camp fire."

    9. Springhill

    21 Reviews
    Barling, AR
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (479) 452-4598

    $16 - $75 / night

    "We camp here a lot because it's close to home. Very reasonable and easy access to bank fishing. Clean bathrooms with hot showers. Offers shaded spots or some that are a little more open."

    "Really nice campground you have two options in the A section you are right one a small river and one the B side it’s more of the wooded option but most sites have the Arkansas rive close by with mountain"

    10. Winding Stair Campground (Ok) — Ouachita National Forest

    11 Reviews
    Big Cedar, OK
    24 miles

    $3 - $14 / night

    "If you plopped me into this camp I wouldn’t have guessed I was in Oklahoma."

    "Driving from Mena to Talihina along this stretch of highway is a treat when it comes to the spectacular views.  "

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Recent Reviews near Poteau, OK

448 Reviews of 131 Poteau Campgrounds


  • Wesley H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 23, 2025

    County Road D1590 Dispersed

    Deep woods

    Definitely isolated, kind of creepy at night. Drove our 29ft class c to the site,road is mostly small rocks

  • Wesley H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 23, 2025

    County Road D1590 Dispersed

    Really in the woods

    Took our class c down the narrow road. Pretty good mostly rock.camp site was clean.

  • A
    Aug. 7, 2025

    Marval Camping Resort

    Horrible Manager

    Very disappointed in Marval Resort. The manager is very unprofessional. We have been going there since 2019 for a family reunion. This year was 59th reunion. I get a phone call on July 7, 2025 and was told we would not be welcomed back and when I asked why the manager could not tell me why. All that she said was several reasons. If it was such a big issue, she should have come to me or someone else and addressed the issue face to face instead of waiting until we left. My cousin had called multiply times to try and get this worked out and she would never speak or call back. When no response to phone calls she was emailed and finally responded to an email. The manager didn’t even have the decency for the closing signature on the email. It’s a shame that Marval Resort has someone like this running their resort. Very poor communication. Instead of coming to my camp spot talking to me about some cars parked on the grass and gravel in front of our camp spot out of the way of others she calls me in the middle of a big gathering and tells me they need to be moved because it rained that morning and the grass was wet. No, the grassy lawn area was dry in the heat of the afternoon day. There are so many staff members driving around on their golf carts and not a word was said. She was on her golf cart right by us and could not come face to face and talk about the issue. Now, that’s pretty unprofessional. We have 96 and 86 year old aunts and some others with walking issues. That’s why cars were there. Family was coming from their cabins or campers to the central area for family gathering. And as far as the pavilion parking that we paid money to rent. Again, for some elders and a few trucks hauling fish fry supplies. You booked a band that was playing on the stage right by the pavilion(that we paid for) and people could not communicate very well due to loud music. This also happened last year as well. So, you the manager don’t know who all the cars belong to. They could have been the bands or other guest not in our family. We have a large group that stayed there for 6 years in campers or cabins and spent lots of money there. There is a lot of issues the manager needs to take care of and get off her high horse. I thought this place is supposed to be family oriented. I will miss seeing Wayne(maintenance gentleman) there with his smiling face. He is such a friendly man. And one more thing, always talking about all the improvements they’re working on or going to do. It’s been the same for 6 years now.

  • Kurt G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 27, 2025

    Lee Creek Off Road Site

    Good pit stop

    Right off the main road (you can still hear the traffic, but it's not a lot of traffic)

    There's a fire pit, some paths to a hiking spot. I don't think a bus would fit but my 21ft. van was mostly a tight fit.

    A good public land spot with just enough space for two car campers

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 10, 2025

    Riverfront RV Resort

    Beautiful Resort!

    We only stayed here 2 nights on our way to Colorado. Beautifully maintained, sits right on the Arkansas river. Pool is cold but clean and well maintained. The park was not even 1/4 full while we were there. I hope business picks up because it’s nice. A little pricey ($81 per night), but with Good Sam or Military discount, it helps. Ladies in the office were fantastic, each going through their purses to find enough quarters so I could wash and dry a load of clothes! Very nice! It was just TOO HOT to do much outside, especially with dogs.

  • Lauren M.
    Jun. 28, 2025

    Pioneer Campgrounds

    Peaceful, healing, and perfect in every season

    We found Pioneer Campgrounds three years ago and have come back every chance we get. It’s more than just a campground—it’s a true escape from the noise and stress of everyday life.

    This place has something special every time we visit. There’s a peaceful creek, a two-mile trail for walking or biking, volleyball and basketball courts, ping pong, and a fire pit for those perfect evening hangouts. The kids have room to run and explore, and our dogs are always welcome.

    The cabins are spacious, super clean, and have great A/C—perfect for relaxing after a day outside. There are spots for tent camping too if that’s your style. Each visit brings something new: upgrades, little surprises, and thoughtful touches that make it feel even more like home.

    They also offer extras like a washer and dryer, coffee, cold drinks, and shirts—all for a small charge. Plus, the WiFi is great thanks to Starlink, which is a bonus when you need to stay a little connected.

    Whether it’s spring, summer, fall, or winter, this place is beautiful year-round. It’s peaceful, quiet, and perfect for our family!

    Big thank-you to Matt—the owner—he’s kind, down-to-earth, and truly an awesome dude. We’re so glad we found this gem. Thanks from The Mays Family. 💚

  • Headgear7 The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 24, 2025

    Springhill

    Close to home but well worth it

    I have been camping out here for years but never took advantage of the A side. A12-14 are premian spots to camp. I tent camp and the view is amazing. It’s in between the Arkansas river and Massard creek. You can launch a boat or you can go kayaking in Massard creek. There’s Cat fish, Perch and, Bass.

  • Jacob
    Jun. 8, 2025

    Turner Creek Road

    Peaceful

    Very secluded spot no amenities just a rock fire ring Very peaceful

  • Jenny The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 7, 2025

    Springhill

    Clean

    Right off the highway, this is a clean and convenient spot to camp.


Guide to Poteau

Camping near Poteau, Oklahoma, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful getaway or an adventure-filled trip, there are several campgrounds to explore.

What to do

  • Hiking: There are numerous trails to explore. At Devil's Den State Park Campground, one visitor mentioned, "The hikes are short and just amazing!" This park has trails that lead to stunning views and natural beauty.
  • Fishing: If you enjoy fishing, Greenleaf State Park Campground is a great spot. A reviewer noted, "You could walk to the lake and fish off the docks or on the lake edge."
  • Wildlife Watching: Campers at Mount Magazine State Park Campground have spotted deer and other wildlife. One camper shared, "We saw deer, armadillos, and skunks."

What campers like

  • Spacious Sites: Many campers appreciate the large, well-spaced sites at Devil's Den State Park Campground. A happy camper said, "LARGE, well spaced sites with two bath houses within 50 yards in either direction."
  • Clean Facilities: Clean restrooms and showers are a big plus. A visitor at Lake Fort Smith State Park Campground remarked, "The facilities are super clean and well taken care of."
  • Natural Beauty: Campers love the scenic views. One reviewer at Queen Wilhelmina State Park said, "The views are worth the drive!"

What you should know

  • Limited Cell Service: Many campgrounds have spotty cell service. A camper at Robbers Cave State Park mentioned, "Just download your maps before you go. No service so be mindful of that."
  • Reservations Required: Some campgrounds require reservations in advance. A visitor at Springhill noted, "You have to reserve your site in advance via Recreation.gov."
  • No Showers at Some Sites: Not all campgrounds have shower facilities. A camper at Mulberry River Outdoor Adventures pointed out, "There is only one bathhouse that has only one shower/toilet/sink combo."

Tips for camping with families

  • Bring Bug Spray: Bugs can be a nuisance, especially in warmer months. A camper at Springhill advised, "Bring screen room or bug repellent for biting flies and no-seeums."
  • Plan for Activities: Choose a campground with activities for kids. One family at Greenleaf State Park Campground enjoyed the splash pad, saying, "The splash park with waterslide was great for the grandkids."
  • Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand can keep kids happy. A visitor at Devil's Den State Park Campground mentioned a small store with camping supplies and snacks.

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Aux Arc said, "The spots are level and easy to back in to and easy to locate."
  • Bring Extra Hoses: Some sites share water connections. A reviewer at Greenleaf State Park Campground suggested, "Bring extra hoses and a 'y' connector."
  • Look for Full Hookups: If you prefer full hookups, check the campground features. A camper at Lake Fort Smith State Park Campground appreciated the "full hookups" available.

Camping near Poteau, Oklahoma, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Poteau, OK?

According to TheDyrt.com, Poteau, OK offers a wide range of camping options, with 131 campgrounds and RV parks near Poteau, OK and 13 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Poteau, OK?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Poteau, OK is Heavener Runestone Park with a 4.9-star rating from 9 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Poteau, OK?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 13 free dispersed camping spots near Poteau, OK.

What parks are near Poteau, OK?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 33 parks near Poteau, OK that allow camping, notably Pine Creek Lake and John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake.