Camping options near Sallisaw, Oklahoma offer diverse overnight experiences within proximity to both Tenkiller Lake and the Illinois River. The region's terrain ranges from lakefront settings to forested areas, with summer temperatures often exceeding 90°F from June through August. Cell service varies throughout the region, with stronger signals closer to I-40 and diminishing coverage in more remote lake areas.
What to do
Fishing access: Dantzyn RV Park provides proximity to Tenkiller Lake fishing spots. "Dantzyn RV Park is very tranquil and so close to Tenkiller lake. It's a great place to relax and enjoy your vacation," notes one visitor.
Family activities: At Marval Camping Resort, families find numerous recreational options. "This place has everything, movie theater, horse riding, a train that goes around the park, golf carts, tons of activities for the entire family... Swimming pool and all... We go every chance we get, my kids love it," writes one camper.
Water recreation: Many campgrounds serve as bases for exploring local waterways. The Illinois River flows near Gore, while Tenkiller Lake offers boating opportunities within 5-10 miles of most rv parks near Sallisaw, Oklahoma.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Fort Smith-Alma RV Park receives praise for maintenance. "Clean bathrooms and showers. It's a former KOA campground with all those amenities but older. Nice pond along the tent camping area," mentions one reviewer.
Well-maintained grounds: Many Sallisaw area campgrounds maintain orderly properties. "The campground was very beautiful, clean, and for all types of campers. It had nice bathrooms, clean and warm. The area was well taken care of," reports a visitor about Marval Camping Resort.
Fishing pond: Fort Smith-Alma RV Park includes on-site fishing opportunities. "Site A2 had fire pit, grill, picnic table was pretty level even with gravel. Fishing pond, dog walk area, propane station all on property for reasonable rates," notes a camper.
What you should know
Train noise: Some rv parks Sallisaw, Oklahoma area experience railroad disruptions. At Love's RV Hookup, one camper warns, "The train that comes through several times a night uses their horn more than I have ever heard."
Site spacing: Proximity between camping spots varies by location. Fort Smith-Alma RV Park has tighter arrangements: "It's a bit tight, we found ourselves sharing our front yard with our neighbor. You have to keep your blinds closed otherwise you find yourself looking right into the windows of your neighbors on both sides."
Seasonal crowding: Summer weekends bring higher occupancy, particularly at lakefront campgrounds. One visitor noted about Marval Camping Resort: "We really wanted to like this place. Everyone raves about it. The sites are close together, it was beyond crowded (my son couldn't even ride his bike because of the constant amount of cars)."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Select campgrounds with dedicated play areas for children. Fort Smith-Alma RV Park offers these amenities: "Our site was perfect in we faced the pond and playground and didn't have any other campers in direct site when lounging outside our camper."
Swimming facilities: Riverfront RV Resort provides pool access for families. "Our kids enjoyed the playground, outdoor gym, and pickleball - it was too cold to swim," reports one family.
Activity planning: Consider weekday visits during summer for less crowding. Weekend family gatherings at popular campgrounds may limit recreational space for children during peak season.
Tips from RVers
Security considerations: William O. Darby RV Community offers enhanced security measures. "This was a great little park and stay at while we were in fort Smith. The price was right and operated by a family and the whole family chips in to run the park. The hosts were very accommodating and the military police patrolled the park."
Level sites: Love's RV Hookup provides well-graded parking. "Great sites that are flat and level. 1-15 are full hookup but 16-18 do not have sewer," notes one RVer.
Size limitations: Tenkiller Bluff RV Park maintains only 4 sites total, making advance reservations essential during summer months. Riverfront RV Resort accommodates larger rigs more easily, with concrete pads available at most sites.
