Horse riders seeking campgrounds near Prue, Oklahoma can access several lake-based camping areas within a 30-mile radius. Many sites feature direct trail access for equestrians with terrain that ranges from rocky shorelines to wooded paths surrounding lakes. Camping fees typically range from $8-20 per night depending on hookups and amenities.
What to do
Trail riding with direct campsite access: At Blue Creek campground, equestrians can camp in the designated group section (Sites 54-61) with direct trail access. As one visitor notes, "Horses are allowed in the group camping section (Sites 54-61)" and "the hiking trail" is available for riding as well.
Horseback swimming breaks: The orange water at several lakes doesn't prevent horses from cooling off. At Blue Creek, riders appreciate that "you can enjoy volleyball, horseshoes, and basketball between trail rides" when horses need rest.
Historical excursions: Take a break from trail riding with a visit to Dog Iron Ranch & Will Rogers Birthplace where you can "tour the birthplace for free, there's an old barn to explore, you can go hiking, there's horse trails as well. It's very close to Oologah lake so you could go swimming for the day."
What campers like
Affordable rates with senior discounts: Blue Creek offers reasonable rates for overnight stays. One camper explains: "Since COVID, reservations are required but as with all other CoE campgrounds, the fees are extremely reasonable ($20 for electric, $16 for non-electric and half-price for seniors)."
Quiet camping environments: Sheppard Point provides a peaceful lakeside setting according to campers. One visitor shared: "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. Sandy bottom lake near swim beach."
Shade coverage for horses: Sites with tree cover help keep horses comfortable during hot Oklahoma days. A camper at Hawthorn Bluff noted: "Very nice and clean campground. Reserve early though this one fills up fast. We camped here in the middle of the week and they where already at 75%."
What you should know
Limited water hookups at some sites: Plan water usage accordingly as hookups vary widely between campgrounds. At Hawthorn Bluff, a visitor warned: "The only downside is that they don't have water hookups at the sites. You can connect your hose to the nearest spigot but you better hope it's long enough."
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds feature sloped terrain that requires preparation. At Stroud Municipal Lake, "Concrete pads at most sites so pretty level. Driveways at some sites are washed out."
Seasonal availability: Most equestrian trails and facilities operate on limited schedules. Blue Creek is only open "April 1 to September 30" while Hawthorn Bluff operates "April 1 to October 31," so plan trips accordingly.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming areas with safety features: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Keystone Lake provides designated swimming areas for families. A visitor shared: "The camping includes the floating inflatables, paddle boards, kayaks, air-conditioned outdoor pool with water slides and splash pad. Everything is new, clean and well kept."
Budget-friendly activities: Multiple free and low-cost recreation options exist between trail rides. At Sheppard Point, "The beach was nice. Very relaxing" and "The lake has a great swimming beach area" where children can play while horses rest.
Campsite selection for families with horses: Choose sites with specific features for mixed horse/family camping. At Hawthorn Bluff, "Lake side spots are not advisable if you have little ones, the bluffs are very close to the fire pits and have about a 30ft drop."
Tips from RVers
Extended hookups for horse trailers: RVers with horse trailers need specialized hookups. At Claremore Expo RV Park, "Spots are level and have full hook ups" though they "stack you close when full" which may be challenging with horse trailers.
Weather considerations: Oklahoma's variable weather affects horse camping. At Sheppard Point, one RVer noted: "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."
Cell service for emergency veterinary needs: Connectivity varies by location but is critical for horse owners. At Blue Creek, campers report "good signal with verizon" which provides peace of mind for contacting veterinary services if needed.
