Matthew E.
Scout
ScoutOuachita National Forest Cedar Lake Recreation Area
This is my favorite spot to camp
With so many trails that you can access just by walking out of the camp site. This is my favorite spot to camp in Oklahoma
Dog-Friendly Camping near Red Oak, OK
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Robbers Cave State Park and Talimena State Park accommodate pets throughout their campgrounds, with both offering a range of camping options from tent sites to RV hookups. Leashed pets are welcome at all campsites, though owners should be prepared to keep dogs secured when exploring the parks. The campgrounds feature picnic tables and fire rings at most sites, making meal preparation convenient while camping with pets. ['Animals are abundant at these parks, with visitors reporting sightings of turtles, deer, and even beavers splashing in the lakes.'] Cedar Lake Recreation Area stands out as a favorite among pet owners, with its heavily forested pine setting providing ample shade for dogs during hot summer months.
Several dispersed camping options exist in the Ouachita National Forest near Red Oak, including Dead Man Gap and Potato Hill Vista, where pets can explore more natural settings. These free sites lack amenities like drinking water or toilets but allow pets without additional fees. The hiking trails throughout the region provide excellent exercise opportunities for dogs, with the Ouachita Trail offering 220 miles of potential exploration. Visitors should be aware that ticks are prevalent in warmer months, with one camper reporting finding several on their dog after hiking. The forest terrain varies from pine-dominated areas to hardwood sections with oak trees, creating diverse environments for pet exploration. During summer months, early morning or evening walks are recommended to avoid heat stress on pets, as daytime temperatures can become uncomfortable for dogs, especially on exposed trails.
Best Dog-Friendly Campgrounds near Red Oak (87)
1. Robbers Cave State Park — Robbers Cave State Resort Park
"Our first Oklahoma camping trip lead us to Robbers Cave State Park in the southeastern portion of Oklahoma. It is located on more than 8,000 acres in the San Bois Mountains. "
"Stayed in the Equestrian campground with access to miles and miles of trails. It was wonderful and some of the best hiking I have done in quite a while. The hikes along the lake edges were great."
from $32 / night
Check Availability2. Talimena State Park Campground
"This State Park is located in SE Oklahoma and is a hidden gem. The park has a number of RV sites and tent sites."
"There was at least one other trail leading away from camp. Camp store is closed during the week - at least during the time of year of our visit.
The town of Talihina is about 6 miles from camp."
3. Dead Man Gap Dispersed Campsite
"Go another 40 ish yards and there is the end of the side ‘road’/stone path and you’ll find the site we stayed at.
There is a great fire pit and a well established site.""First time in the Ouachita national forest and we found a most excellent spot next to Lillard Creek off of 6010 Deadmans trail Rd. Would recommend a 4wd vehicle."
4. Potato Hill Vista - Dispersed Camping
"If you're near the end (heading west) or got a late start heading east, detour north towards Potato Hill Vista for a flat area with a stone fire ring near Highway 88/1."
"Take the teail, walk one minute and you are on."
5. Deadman Gap South Trail Dispersed Campsite
"Small peaceful pond and is right off the Deadman South Trail."
6. Cedar Lake (Oklahoma)
"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."
"The lake nearby is great. We brought our kayaks and had so much fun hitting the lake in the morning. It does get busy as the day goes on, especially in the summer on the weekends."
from $15 - $40 / night
Check Availability7. Wards Campground — Lake Wister State Park
"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"
8. Quarry Island Campground — Lake Wister State Park
"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"
from $16 - $29 / night
Check Availability9. Winding Stair Campground (Ok) — Ouachita National Forest
"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. "
from $3 - $14 / night
10. Cedar Lake Equestrian Campground
"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."
from $10 - $23 / night
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Drive Time
- 55 min from Fort Smith, AR
- 1 hr 42 min from Fayetteville, AR
- 1 hr 49 min from Tulsa, OK
- 2 hrs 56 min from Texarkana, TX
Recent Dog-Friendly Camping Photos near Red Oak, OK
45 Photos of 87 Red Oak Campgrounds
Chris H.
Robbers Cave State Park — Robbers Cave State Resort Park
Rudy D.
Dead Man Gap Dispersed Campsite
Teresa T.
Wards Campground — Lake Wister State Park
Elizabeth R.
Below the Dam Campground — Lake Wister State Park
Jennifer O.
Cedar Lake (Oklahoma)
Fred S.
Winding Stair Campground (Ok) — Ouachita National Forest
Brien
Talimena Scenic Drive
jim
County Road D1590 Dispersed
Lauren
Porum Landing - Eufaula Lake
Jasmine B.
Turkey Flat Campground — Arrowhead State Park
Susan L.
Belle Starr Park Campground
Kevin M.
Sallisaw-Fort Smith West KOA
Dog-Friendly Camping Reviews near Red Oak, OK
431 Reviews of 87 Red Oak Campgrounds
Kelly Z.
RangerCedar Lake Equestrian Campground
Great campground
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 has a very nice bathroom facility with showers. Normally when we would go (in the fall and spring) it was not very crowded. Lots of great hiking trails nearby and the scenic Talimena scenic drive is beautiful, especially in the fall.
Joel R.
LegendSallisaw-Fort Smith West KOA
Convenient to I-40
This is KOA, not my favorite place to stop, but they have good, basic facilities, sort of like Motel 6. They are just off I-40, so it was convenient for a one night stop. The sites were level, and were Pull-Thru so we didn’t even unhook. Full hookups, Some shade, a dump station. The shower/bathroom was clean. There is a small store. They also have cabins and tent sites; Free Wi-Fi, cable tv, a pool and playground, and a pond for fishing. There is a small Kamp K9 (dog park). When we were there everything was wet, and the smell of wet creosote from the log yard next door was terrible.
- NN I.Legend
Webbers Falls City Park
Country Laid Back
- Quiet time 10:00 pm to 6:00 am
- No firearms Tobacco free Pets on leash
- Fees and info call 918-464-2920 grills picnic tables Trash Picnic shelter Camphost Dump station New comfort station Electric Water Primitive sites are available Rates from$7.00 to$15.00
Webbers Falls is a very small community in Muskogee County Oklahoma with a population of just over 600 people. on the Arkansas River. The park is located right next to the river. Wonderful views of the river and the bridge spanning the Arkansas. The campground is dotted with large mature trees. The grass provides a soft carpet for parking any size rig. There is a circle drive and you will pull thru All sites are good sites with view of the river.
Hunting, fishing, and wild flowers and colors to keep you entertained. Directions off US 64 turn off at the Webber Falls exit; continue straight onto E1040(Weatherly Drive; keep left to continue on Commercial; turn right onto S. River Road; turn left onto Commercial Street
- JJulie O.Scout
Greenleaf State Park Campground
Always an adventure
Animals! Turtles, deer that like to be petted, frogs croaking at night, owls talking, beavers splashing in the lake and turkeys eating snakes!
- NNameScout
Marval Camping Resort
Birthday
The campgrounds was amazing and the store staff was decently friendly but the owner and his wife where rude and being nasty I went to have my dgter Birthday and they charged everyone that wanted to enjoy her day $10 not a carload A PIECE my son has ptsd so we brought his service animal which is cocidered MEDICAL EQUIPMENT not a pet and these rude nasty people charged me $50 extra after I left said the Girl with the color hair snuck the dog in no that’s not even the point if your animal is service it’s medical equipment not a pet GET THAT RIGHT also said my cabin was left a mess listen here people imma a former Girl Scout leader and all the girls in my cabin was former Girl Scouts so when we leave we leave it as we found it or better so don’t go giving me that it was dirty line of crap I freaking know better then that.was definitely treated like outcast from the owner and his wife you guys should really just use that resort as a gated community with the people that’s already there since you don’t know how to be nice to the new guest☹️🤔😔😡
- NN I.Legend
Summers Ferry
Laid Back
Address 801 S. Main Street, Gore, OK
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PROS Free
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CONS Lonely
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ADA Compliant Pets allowed Picnic tables Basketball goal ADA porta pot Water Boat ramp(steep) Patrolled by police nightly
In the early 1900’s there was a ferry that crossed the Arkansas River and now there is an extremely high bridge that you may view from this quaint small park. This are is where the picnic tables and grill are located.
The parking area is paved and we pulled up next to the grassy wooded area to park.
This park is located just before the town of Gore and we felt safe but you would need to use your judgement. Great cell service. Just down the road at Love’s you will find a dump station.
Directions: Going north on Highway 100 as soon as you cross the bridge turn to the left at the first road. The park is a short distance located in a nice wooded area.
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Kyle H.
GuideRobbers Cave State Park — Robbers Cave State Resort Park
Our First Camping Voyage into Oklahoma
Our first Oklahoma camping trip lead us to Robbers Cave State Park in the southeastern portion of Oklahoma. It is located on more than 8,000 acres in the San Bois Mountains. The parks claim to fame is outlaws such as Belle Starr, the Dalton Gang, and Jesse James used it as a hideout from the law. This was going to be our first full week of vacation spent in the popup, and our first camping trip outside of Missouri. We selected Robbers Cave State Park for two reasons it’s distance was a little over 4 hours away, and the number of amenities it offered for our 4 year old on our extended outing.
The first thing this park did was challenge my perceptions on what the Oklahoma landscape is. This is a park is located in an old growth pine forest, located in the rocky terrain of the Sans Bois Mountains. The park is split in half by Hwy 2 with the east side of the park consisting of the RV campgrounds, cabins, and Belle Starr Lodge. The west side of the park includes Lake Carlton, the equestrian camps, swimming pool, miniature golf, and nature center. This layout was negative in the fact that we could not walk between two sides with my son because of the distance and elevation change, you could rent golf carts if you would like. The positive was that it kept traffic down in the campground from the day use visitors of the park. We booked site 23 in the Old Circle Campground, when booking on the Oklahoma state park website there are no photos of the sites, only short descriptions…sometimes. I will let you know there is a youtube video that someone made driving around the old circle campground. I used this to take a look at our site after booking it. Site 23 was a pull through site with full hookups located only about 5 feet off the main campground road. This could be a problem if the park was busy and there is a lot of traffic. Lucky for us we were camping through the week and this was not an issue. The site then on the opposite side held our own little secluded spot surrounded by pine trees down a slight slope from camper. We had a fire circle, picnic table, grill, and lantern post. We loved this site for this very reason. I will post pictures of both sides of our site below so you can get a visual. The bathroom and shower house is located in the middle of the old circle loop. The structure is very old and very dated stone structure, where you might find frogs sitting on shower curtains, spiders, and lizards (Those are just the ones that I witnessed). There is a newer shower house located outside of the Whispering Pines campground, next to the campground office and store. If you go to the newer one to take a shower make sure you have some quarters, or some dollar bills, because the showers cost money. Four quarters will get you 6 minutes worth of shower time.
When we were not at camp we spent most of our time exploring the west side of the park. We spent two afternoons swimming in Lake Carlton. The designated swim area has a very rocky drop-off for an entrance, but once out it was very nice swimming. There is a concrete pier that is located along the swim ropes that you can climb up and jump off of. Besides swimming you could rent peddle boats, canoes, and paddle boards to go exploring. There was a pool with two water slides and a splash zone, it is $5 dollars to enter for the entire day. My son also got to play miniature for the first time at the course located next to the pool. One word of warning the golf course is very dated with carpet ripped or completely missing in spots. This did not slow us down at all, it just needs a little work. They also sell shaved ice at the miniature gold building.
The Oklahoma Park staff were very knowledgeable, friendly, and willing to answer any of my questions. Also when you get to camp they will give you a schedule of all the events that are going on throughout the week you are staying. We did a hayride that lead us through the park to the stables where there is a petting zoo, we saw the second largest pine tree in Oklahoma, and drank water from anartesian well. They also had a campfire with stories and smores one night, a cane pole fishing class, and even a tour of Lake Carlton by canoe. Just make sure you have cash because each item does cost money.
The last thing we did before leaving Robbers Cave State Park after our three night stay was to go and search for the outlaws in the cave ourselves. I will give you a spoiler alert, the hiking trail to the cave is steep and rocky with big drop-offs, so be careful with small children. It is a ¾ of a mile trail that my son absolutely loved. He was trying to find the robber that was hiding out. The hike was worth every hair raising nervous parent moment.
It is a consensus with my family that we will need to return to this park again. It has so much to offer, and we did not even touch on the many miles worth of trails to hike or go for a horseback ride on. We look forward to our return to continue the exploring and searching for the elusive robbers.
Kassi S.GuideGreenleaf State Park Campground
Fishing, Splash Pad, & Trails
Greenleaf State Park is a gem in eastern Oklahoma. This state park offers fishing, kayaking, canoeing, hiking, and a splash pad to cool off at! It also is home to The Cabin on the Lake, the first cabin built in Oklahoma for the physically challenged.
We stayed in the Cypress Row campground at site #6. 30 amp and water. No sewer, but dump station close by. This site was close to the bathhouse and lake. You could walk to the lake and fish off the docks or on the lake edge. The only disadvantage to this park is some sites share water. In our site we needed 50 ft of water hose and I would suggest bringing a “y” water connector.
We enjoyed hiking the trails and our little one enjoyed the splash pad. The splash pad is fairly new and kept in great shape. It is a local favorite.
Pros: Clean park Lots of activities Shade galore
Cons: Some sites are shared water-bring extra hoses and a “y” connector
Guide to Red Oak
Camping in the Ouachita National Forest offers diverse terrain across 1.8 million acres with elevations ranging from 600 to 2,600 feet. The Red Oak area features mixed pine and hardwood forests with moderate rainfall year-round and summer temperatures averaging 85-95°F. Numerous dispersed camping areas require no reservations and operate on first-come, first-served availability.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Cedar Lake provides excellent fishing in a heavily forested setting. "I love this state park and will come back to stay longer! Super nice trails, clean showers, big spaces," reports Bryan A. The lake offers bank access and calm waters ideal for catching bass and catfish.
Hiking the Ouachita Trail: Access the 220-mile Ouachita Trail from Talimena State Park. "I've stayed here a couple of times the night before starting my hike on the Ouachita Trail. The OT is a 200+ mile trail and this park is the Western Terminus," explains Mike D. The trail traverses diverse forest landscapes from pine-dominated areas to hardwood sections.
Mountain biking: Winding Stair Campground provides access to numerous trails suitable for mountain biking. "The trails are what really shines here. The Ouachita National Recreation Trail passes by the camp and ties you into hundreds of miles of adventure," notes one camper. The terrain varies from moderate to challenging with significant elevation changes.
Wildlife viewing: The Ouachita Forest hosts diverse wildlife including deer, turkey, and numerous bird species. "The view from both of their places was breathtaking... Fishing was very good and wasn't a whole lot of boat traffic. Plenty of options for accommodations and outdoor activities. The Heavner Ruinstone and Spiral Mounds are close. Tons of wildlife areas and we even spotted a bald eagle," mentions Leslie N. at Lake Wister State Park.
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: Deadman Gap South Trail Dispersed Campsite offers secluded camping spots. "This spot was amazing, the first place I had planned for was taken, so this was my next option and it did not disappoint. The pond was calm, with some bullfrogs and snakes which were cool to experience," writes Brett F. These sites provide natural settings without amenities.
Scenic mountain views: Winding Stair Campground sits on a scenic mountain ridge. "Just a bit off the beautiful Talimena Drive, it is well shaded, close to spectacular overlooks and lots of hiking options around," describes Neil T. The campground offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.
Well-maintained facilities: Robbers Cave State Park receives praise for its facilities. "This is such a great park, one of the best I have ever been to for equine camping. Horses are very happy here, just remember to bring your coggins paperwork," says Kent B. The park offers both developed and primitive camping options.
Shade coverage: Cedar Lake provides excellent shade during hot summer months. "The large pines, the facilities and the hiking is wonderful. Cedar lake is beautiful," shares Megan P. The heavy pine forest maintains cooler temperatures even during peak summer heat.
What you should know
Bathroom facilities: Facilities vary widely between campgrounds. At Robbers Cave State Park, campers note: "The bathroom and shower house is located in the middle of the old circle loop. The structure is very old and very dated stone structure, where you might find frogs sitting on shower curtains, spiders, and lizards." Plan accordingly with shower supplies and footwear.
Wildlife precautions: Black bears inhabit the Ouachita National Forest. "I don't think they have a problem in camp, but be aware that the Ouachita National Forest holds a fair number of Black Bears. Proceed accordingly," advises Shane B. Store food properly and maintain clean campsites to avoid attracting wildlife.
Road conditions: Many dispersed camping areas require high-clearance vehicles. At Dead Man Gap, one camper reports: "The road in/out has some tough spots, 4WD would be preferred" and another advises "further down (you definitely want a higher riding vehicle, no sedans down this road)." Forest roads may become difficult after rain.
Cell service limitations: Service is spotty throughout the region. "I had Verizon service, but bring what you need - it's a long way to town," notes a camper at Winding Stair Campground. Download maps before arrival and bring physical copies as backup.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Lake Wister State Park offers family-friendly swimming. "There is a splash pad at the park along with a put put golf course, and if you go into Wister, stop by the old Frisco trail, they allow walking, bikes and horses on the trail," recommends Wayne T. The park has designated swimming areas with gradual entry points.
Educational programs: Talimena State Park offers ranger-led programs. "The Camp host are very kind and helpful!" reports Teresa C. Programs typically include wildlife presentations and guided nature walks appropriate for children.
Playground access: Cedar Lake North Shore provides recreational facilities for children. "Clean site, right in the national forest. There is a really fun trail that runs right around the entire lake, and it's a little over two miles," says Patrick G. The campground includes a playground suitable for younger children.
Weather preparation: Temperature fluctuations can be significant. "Campground was alongside the highway, however the highway divides the state park, sites up the hill are farther away from the highway. We stayed on a site that was basically parallel with the main highway, however the trees offer privacy and noise reduction," notes Vanessa M. Pack layers as mountain temperatures can drop significantly at night, even in summer.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Talimena State Park Campground, RV sites have specific considerations. "Spaces aren't too tight together, but not much privacy either," reports Neil T. Request sites away from the highway for less road noise.
Hookup availability: Lake Wister State Park offers various hookup options. "Ward landing isn't as cramped as Victor landing which is why we like it, but it doesn't have sewer connections. Most of the sites at Victor landing do have sewer connections," explains Wayne T. Research specific loops for your needed hookup level.
Leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require leveling blocks. At Winding Stair, "some sites are large enough for small trailers. But with no electric or water hookups at the sites (there is community water) they are limited," notes one camper. Sites at higher elevations typically require more extensive leveling.
Seasonal considerations: Services may be limited in off-seasons. "Camp store is closed during the week - at least during the time of year of our visit," reports a visitor to Winding Stair Campground. Call ahead to confirm available amenities during shoulder seasons.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dog-friendly
campsite near Red Oak, OK?
Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Red Oak, OK?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Red Oak, OK is Robbers Cave State Park — Robbers Cave State Resort Park with a 4.2-star rating from 62 reviews.
What is the best site to find
dog-friendly camping near
Red Oak, OK?
What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Red Oak, OK?
TheDyrt.com has all 87 dog-friendly camping locations near Red Oak, OK, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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