Sardis Lake camping areas sit in the foothills of the Ouachita Mountains at around 600 feet elevation. The surrounding terrain features mature pine forests interspersed with hardwoods that create distinct seasonal camping experiences. Winter temperatures can drop to freezing at night while summer days regularly exceed 90°F, requiring appropriate gear for seasonal conditions.
What to do
Trail exploration: The Ouachita Trail offers extensive hiking opportunities near Talimena State Park Campground. "The Ouachita Trail is a 220 mile trail that travels from Oklahoma to Arkansas. Near the campground the forest is predominantly made up of pine trees, but as you hike along the trail you'll pass through a variety of hardwoods like oak," notes Troy W.
Cave exploration: Visit historic hideouts used by outlaws at Robbers Cave State Park. "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. The hiking trail to the cave is steep and rocky with big drop-offs, so be careful with small children," cautions Kyle H.
Water activities: Numerous recreation areas provide lake access for fishing, swimming, and boating. "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," explains Kyle H.
What campers like
Stargazing opportunities: The dark skies provide excellent viewing conditions. "If you love getting the full effect of beautiful sunrises, sunsets, and stars - this may be the perfect spot for you to watch the skies! If you check dark-skies maps, you'll see that Clayton Lake State Park is right on the edge of the section of SE Oklahoma with the least light-pollution," shares Ava G.
Secluded camping spots: Free dispersed sites offer privacy away from developed areas. "My buddy and I read the other reviews and decided to give this site a go. Someone was camping at the main site just off the park road, and honestly, I'm glad they were there, otherwise we wouldn't have found the great alternative spot," writes John H. about Dead Man Gap Dispersed Campsite.
Water access: Many sites offer direct lake or stream access. "Had a great time fishing at our campsite. Were the only ones at this campground. You'll have to find this treasure spot. Took a hike with the pups and babe to robbers cave, lots of people visiting," writes Valerie C.
What you should know
Limited facilities at dispersed sites: Free camping areas lack amenities. "Pretty great dispersed campsite. If you're not familiar with dispersed camping, PLEASE research it before going. Completely undeveloped other than fire ring. Plenty of flat clear space for tents but we used hammocks, and plenty of trees were available for that," explains Daniel S.
Seasonal considerations: Water levels and accessibility change throughout the year. "We came to get away from our house for a few nights during the Corona virus outbreak. A lot of things were shut down and it was too early in the season to swim. Despite all that we had an amazing time," notes Matt B.
Road conditions: Some sites require appropriate vehicles. "The road in/out has some tough spots, 4WD would be preferred. We camped 9/19/2020 and the spot was great," says Ryin J. about dispersed camping areas.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Several parks offer structured programs. "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," shares Kyle H.
Swimming options: Multiple swimming areas cater to different preferences. At Cedar Lake, Ashley W. notes, "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."
Playground facilities: Some campgrounds include play equipment. "We tent camped here in April. We got here in the dark and it was hard to find a spot but when we woke up the next morning we had a great view of the lake. The bathroom near the office was newer and had showers that you need quarters to use. Also had an old school playground but the kids had fun," Richard mentions about Clayton Lake.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Level sites with hookups vary across parks. "We booked site 23 in the Old Circle Campground. 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," advises Kyle H. about McGee Creek State Park.
Spacing considerations: Campgrounds offer varying degrees of privacy. "Lots of tall trees plus some open areas. Trees will not block canopies or pull outs! Very helpful staff! Has 30 and 50 amp. Along side a river also plus they have cabins," notes Bart R. about K River Campground.
Dog-friendly campgrounds Sardis Lake: Most pet areas lack fencing. "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," mentions Kent B. about Robbers Cave, which accommodates various animals including dogs.
