Bell Cow Lake offers equestrian camping options about 20 miles northwest of Prague, Oklahoma. The area features red clay trails that wind through wooded terrain near Chandler at an elevation of approximately 900 feet. Seasonal variations affect trail conditions, with spring and fall providing optimal riding weather when temperatures range from 60-80°F and trails remain firm but not dusty.
What to do
Swimming access: Bell Cow Lake has designated swimming areas with beaches for cooling off. "This is a very clean camping area, one of the number one spots locals go to swim," notes one visitor at Bell Cow Lake Campground C.
Fishing opportunities: Anglers can try their luck at several lakes within driving distance. At Sportsmans Lake, "This is a pretty decent little lake it's fishing only they do have a small swimming area there is a lot of horse trails which you can also hike and lots of different camp sites around the lake."
Hiking trails: Even if you're not on horseback, the network of trails offers good hiking options. At Sportsmans Lake, one reviewer mentions it "has RV campsites, tent campsites and equestrian campsites. The campsites are 1st come." The same reviewer notes "Sunrise is beautiful and so are the stars."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campers appreciate the natural separation between camping areas. At Little Axe — Lake Thunderbird State Park, "This is the nicer campground of all thunderbird. Best position on the lake. Less of a party crowd over here."
Waterfront camping: Many sites allow camping with direct water views. "We stayed in a primitive site near the water. Showers are horribly cold, but available. Campground also has flushing toilets and water," reports a camper at Stroud Municipal Lake.
Quiet atmosphere: The equestrian-focused areas tend to be more peaceful than other campgrounds. At Bell Cow Lake, a visitor mentioned it was "Very peaceful & Not Crowded" and noted "Campground C area offers many pull through RV sites and some back-in RV sites, all with electric & water hook ups."
What you should know
Bathroom facilities: Restrooms vary widely in quality throughout the region. At Sheppard Point, one camper reported, "The bathrooms near the campground was closed due to a water leak and a sign on the door said to use the restrooms near the beach. They were reasonably clean but not too private."
Seasonal considerations: Weather impacts both comfort and access. "We spent four nights here in the heat of the summer. The lake has a great swimming beach area - this seems to be a fishing lake, only a few jet skis were out besides fishing boats," noted a Sheppard Point visitor.
Site reservations: Some campgrounds require advance planning. At Little Axe, a camper advises "You must make your reservations in advance online" while noting "Site spacing is good. Typical amenities for a state park."
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Several campgrounds have play areas for children. At Central State Park Campground, the facilities are "away from the day use areas, keeping traffic by the site to a minimum," which provides a safer environment for kids.
Swimming beaches: Sandy beach areas are more comfortable for families with small children. "Sandy bottom lake near swim beach. The sites are well shaded, but very narrow," reports a visitor to Sheppard Point.
Wildlife viewing: Kids can enjoy spotting local animals. At Sportsmans Lake, a camper notes "There are many geese on this lake, they have there own island where they hatch their babies every year. Lots of racoons and a couple foxes."
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Electric and water availability differs between campgrounds and seasons. "This place was further off the beaten path than expected and was a beautiful location. I camped in late November so water was shut off but electric worked well," reports an RV camper at Sheppard Point.
Site leveling: Some campsites require significant work to level an RV. A camper at Sheppard Point warns, "My RV spot is so unlevel it's almost unusable. Front to back there is 2 feet in elevation difference and a foot from side to side."
Late arrivals: Plan your arrival timing carefully. At Sportsmans Lake, "Don't arrive after 10pm as you can then only access cove 2 and cove 4. You can camp late hours in those areas, but the population in this area is very active at 2am and it just isn't comfortable."
