Tent campsites near Purcell, Oklahoma cluster around several smaller lakes and recreation areas with varying amenities. The region experiences hot summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F from June through September, making water access particularly valuable for campers. Winter camping remains possible at select locations where overnight temperatures can drop below freezing from December through February.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Guy Sandy Campground, visitors can access Lake of the Arbuckles for various fishing activities. According to one camper, "Lots to see and do and only minutes from town if needed." The $14 nightly fee includes access to prime fishing spots.
Trail exploration: River Run RV Park and Cabins offers "80 acres with 3 miles of trails to explore" with river access less than a quarter mile away. Visitors can hike through varied terrain while staying at one of their primitive tent sites.
Water recreation: Multiple water activities are available at nearby lakes. A camper at Romulus Lake noted that "the lake is great for canoeing or kayaking," making it ideal for paddlers seeking calmer waters than the more crowded lakes in the region.
What campers like
Budget-friendly options: Primitive camping near Purcell provides affordable options for weekend getaways. One visitor to Guy Sandy Campground mentioned, "$14 camp fee per night. Pay ahead or they will wake you up and they come by early. Once you pay they have a slip for your dash so they don't have to wake you."
Unique accommodations: For campers seeking distinctive experiences, OK Treehouse offers an alternative to traditional tent camping. A visitor described it as "Such an inspirational space and amazing hosts. A sacred spot in Oklahoma City worth of meditation and communion with nature."
Animal encounters: Tent camping at Lazy H Alpaca Ranch provides a one-of-a-kind experience where "We got to pet the Alpacas and the 3 Great Pyrenees kept us company," according to a recent visitor. The single designated site ensures privacy while enjoying proximity to farm animals.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Oklahoma's climate affects camping conditions significantly throughout the year. A Lazy H Alpaca Ranch camper reported, "We camped early Jan and it was cold," highlighting the need for proper cold-weather gear during winter months.
Facility maintenance issues: Campground facilities vary widely in quality and upkeep. One camper at Honey Creek Campground warned, "the shower was basically a box in the woods with a garden hose, no trash cans... They were never once cleaned. People were gagging from the smell."
Reservation policies: Most tent camping areas around Purcell operate on a first-come, first-served basis. At Guy Sandy Campground, a reviewer advised, "These sites are not reservable so it is first come first serve. Arrive early during busy times of year to ensure your space."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: When camping with children near Purcell, look for sites with dedicated play areas. A visitor to Shawnee Twin Lakes mentioned, "There is a playground and picnic pavilion which would be good for families."
Safety around water: Monitor children closely near water features as most lakes lack designated swimming areas. A Guy Sandy camper noted, "getting in the water can be a bit hard when its super busy because the boats really kick up the waves and there is no designated swimming area."
Board game spaces: Some campgrounds provide stable surfaces for family activities. A Shawnee Twin Lakes visitor appreciated that "Concrete picnic tables at every site make it nice for large groups and for board games."
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: While many campgrounds around Purcell accommodate both tents and RVs, site quality varies significantly. At Guy Sandy Campground, "sites are large enough to easily accommodate rigs of all sizes or tent campers" though the reviewer noted it remains "one of the smaller campgrounds at the Lake of the Arbuckles so during summer it can fill up quickly."
Registration requirements: Ensure proper documentation for vehicles and boats. A Guy Sandy visitor cautioned, "If you have a boat, make sure your registrations are cleared by the State of Oklahoma before entering the water, this site is a very active site for game wardens to inspect."
Noise considerations: Expect varying noise levels depending on campground policies. At Honey Creek, a camper reported "there is no set quiet time. Noisey all night," while Guy Sandy was described as "pretty quiet during the night" despite daytime boat traffic.
