The Purcell area sits at approximately 1,099 feet above sea level in central Oklahoma, where the terrain transitions from plains to gently rolling hills. Camping options near Purcell feature a mix of lakeside and woodland settings, with several parks offering dedicated equestrian facilities. Summer temperatures typically reach 90-95°F, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons in this region.
What to do
Horseback riding trails: Lake Thunderbird State Park offers extensive equestrian paths around its 6,000-acre centerpiece lake. "If you have a 30 amp rv/camper you can get a spot at one of the 3 decent Thunderbird parks most of the time same day no reservation," notes one visitor to South Dam - Lake Thunderbird State Park.
Lake activities: At Little Axe — Lake Thunderbird State Park, campers enjoy swimming and fishing. "There is a designated swimming area in the campgrounds. Beautiful, wooded park with large lake that has a section for watersports and fishing," writes one reviewer who adds it's "perfect for biking/scooters/walking/swimming."
Off-road adventures: For those seeking muddy thrills, mud bogging events are popular at Soggy Bottom Trails & Campground. A visitor describes it as "a trip into another world! Arrived just as mud bogging event begins for the weekend. Giant trucks, loud engines and enormous tires racing through mud bogs."
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Campers consistently praise the lakeside locations at Lake Thunderbird. "This was a back in site right on the water. We looked at some other areas where you were so far from the water you wouldn't even know you were at a lake," notes a reviewer at Little Axe Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Many horse campgrounds near Purcell, Oklahoma feature abundant wildlife. At Scissortail Campground, families appreciate the natural setting. "The kids loved feeding all the deer. Great clean park!" mentions one camper.
Privacy between sites: Campers value the natural buffers at several parks. At Arcadia Lake, a visitor notes: "Great campsite! Picnic tables and fire pits. Walking distance to the beautiful lake. Fairly private site lots of trees between each."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most horse-friendly campgrounds require advance booking, especially on weekends. "If you have a 50 amp better go parkit on Thursday so you have a weekend spot," advises a South Dam visitor.
Site conditions vary by season: Water levels and site conditions change throughout the year. "Went from Thursday to Sunday! Thursday camp was very chilly rest of the time wasn't to bad, but kinda windy!" reports a Lake Thunderbird camper who also noted "sandy beach area, sandy & walkable around lakes edge."
Facility maintenance: Bathrooms and shower facilities receive mixed reviews at equestrian campgrounds near Purcell. At Sportsmans Lake, a visitor observed: "Beautiful quiet area. The grounds are neat and well cared for... Restrooms need some work and only cold water available for showers."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and swimming: Lake Thunderbird offers family-friendly amenities. "Bathrooms & showers were like new & very clean. Camp host nice. Little axe area," writes one visitor, while another mentions the "playground was nearby as were bathrooms" at Sportsmans Lake.
Short hiking options: Look for campgrounds with accessible trails. At Central State Park Campground, families appreciate the natural setting: "Fun little trails everywhere! Could buy firewood! But found lots of kindling lying around!"
Safety considerations: Many parks offer ranger supervision. "The lake's nice and has a swimming area (no dogs allowed at the swimming beach). The campsites are in a different portion of the park than the day use areas, which helps minimize traffic driving by your site," notes a Central State Park visitor.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: RV sites with full hookups are limited at some parks. "There are about 10 reservable sites with full hookups. Several sites with water and electric. Most pads are short," reports a Sportsmans Lake visitor.
Access considerations: Pay attention to campground entrance locations and closing times. "The campgrounds are actually located on the southwest side of the lake in cove 1 and cove 3, make sure you don't arrive after 10pm as you can then only access cove 2 and cove 4," warns a Sportsmans Lake camper.
Site selection strategy: Choose your site based on specific needs. "We have been many times throughout the year and will definitely go back again. Camping sites are away from the day use areas, keeping traffic by the site to a minimum," advises a Central State Park visitor.
