Robbers Cave State Park offers upscale glamping near Red Oak, Oklahoma with climate-controlled yurts, enhanced camping amenities, and access to trout fishing in the cold water below the dam. The park sits within the Sans Bois Mountains at elevations between 750-1,500 feet. Most sites can be accessed via drive-in, while certain areas accommodate hike-in, walk-in, and boat-in camping options depending on location and season.
What to do
Trout fishing below the dam: Lake Carlton at Robbers Cave features cold water access. "The afternoon hours did have some rambunctious local teens, but they kept to themselves. Trout fishing just steps away from camp and we had the whole campground to ourselves for the night," notes a visitor to Robbers Cave State Park.
Horseback riding for families: The park maintains dedicated equestrian trails and 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," advises a Robbers Cave camper.
Discover backcountry trails: Cedar Lake offers extended hiking beyond typical state park offerings. "We enjoy the Horsetheif Springs Trail which starts behind the dump station. You can either hike a small couple mail loop or extend it to 14 miles," explains a visitor to Cedar Lake.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campers appreciate well-maintained shower houses. "Restrooms and showers were spectacular. Everything was clean and well kept," reports a visitor to Queen Wilhelmina State Park, located near the Oklahoma-Arkansas border about 50 miles from Red Oak.
Waterfront sites: Lake views are highly sought after in the region. "Campgrounds were incredibly peaceful and quiet. There is running water and bathrooms which were relatively clean. Each site has a tent pad, picnic table, grill, lantern poles, fire pit, parking spot and small counter-like food prep area," notes a Cedar Lake camper.
Seasonal changes: Fall colors transform many camping areas near Red Oak. "We had a blast. The first night it was truly freezing but we made it through. We went to enjoy hiking & fall colors and we're not disappointed," shares a camper from Greenleaf State Park.
What you should know
Limited tent camping options: Some parks prioritize RV accommodation over tent sites. "The campground is small with limited pads. Each site is close to the next and are generally occupied with RVs or camper trailers. I would suggest that this campground is most appropriate for the camper who prefers a more modern feel," explains a Queen Wilhelmina visitor.
Water hookup logistics: Some camping areas require extra equipment for water connections. "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," advises a Greenleaf State Park camper.
Accessibility challenges: Not all trails accommodate mobility devices. "We tried a few trails but were too hard for us. We have a daughter with cerebral palsy that we pull in a wagon and the trails were too rough for the wagon," shares a visitor to Brooken Cove.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Kids enjoy spotting various animals in these natural settings. "Animals! Turtles, deer that like to be petted, frogs croaking at night, owls talking, beavers splashing in the lake and turkeys eating snakes!" reports a Greenleaf State Park camper.
Water recreation options: Many campgrounds offer water activities beyond swimming. "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," notes a Cedar Lake visitor.
Interactive facilities: Some campgrounds near Red Oak offer specialized children's areas. "What we love: a ton of activities and things to do. Pool, bouncy houses, witbit, swim beach, schedule activities, kayaks, putt putt, etc. They also have a cafe with a lot of cheap food," explains a camper from Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: Be prepared for uneven pads at some locations. "Site 51 was the best view. Long but narrow paved spot. We couldn't back all the way up because the tree was too low, but the spot was long enough where it wasn't an issue. The water spicket was about 80 ft away," advises a Brooken Cove RVer.
Off-season advantages: Consider glamping close to Red Oak, Oklahoma during quieter months. "If you dig the crowds and the splash park scene and the loud music... hit it in the summer. But if you like it quiet and peaceful check it out in the winter or early spring," suggests a Greenleaf State Park visitor.
Overnight convenience: Some sites accommodate quick stops. "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," notes a traveler who stayed at the Sallisaw KOA.