Sardis Lake in southeastern Oklahoma offers RV camping options within the Ouachita Mountains region. The area features wooded terrain with elevations ranging from 600-900 feet and moderate temperatures averaging 62°F annually. Fishing, boating and hiking attract visitors throughout the year, with peak camping season running April through October when temperatures range from 70-90°F.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Clayton Lake State Park provides access to a 80-acre lake known for bass and crappie fishing. "Our visit here is always great, The Camp host Park Ranger is a great guy. We couldn't be more pleased with a place to camp and kayak," noted a visitor at Clayton Lake State Park.
History exploration: The area includes sites with historical significance, particularly at Robbers Cave. "Lots of history at Robbers Cave State Park! Belle Starr famous Lady Outlaw! Jesse James Gang! Beautiful lakes and numerous hiking trails!" shared one reviewer at Robbers Cave State Park.
Stargazing: The southeastern Oklahoma region offers excellent night sky 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 is right on the edge of the section of SE Oklahoma with the least light-pollution," reports one camper about the area.
What campers like
Proximity to water recreation: Many RV sites near Sardis Lake provide direct lake access. "We stayed at this park with two other couples while we were in town for the Pine Mountain atv trails. This park appears to be more of a full-timer park rather than a 'campground' park, but it worked out well for us for the weekend," noted one visitor at Antlers RV Park.
Family-friendly amenities: Several parks offer dedicated facilities for children. "Enjoyed our stay at Shady Oaks! Friendly staff, a playground for the kids, right across the highway from the lake, and a family friendly bar and grill located right at the campground," reported a camper at Shady Oaks RV Resort.
Natural features: The forested setting provides nature exploration opportunities. "The scenery was awesome as always, my only complaint was the goose droppings down by the lake, there is quite a large flock of geese that were not there 15 years ago," mentioned one reviewer about their camping experience in the region.
What you should know
Campground maintenance varies: Quality and upkeep differ significantly between parks. "Lane RV is a very clean and quiet RV and Tiny Home Park. Conveniently located between McGee Creek State Park and Reba's in Downtown Atoka!" reported a visitor at Lane RV Park.
Shower facilities: Many parks have basic facilities requiring quarters. "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," noted a camper regarding available facilities.
Trail conditions: Hiking paths throughout the area often lack clear markings. "We took a hike around part of the lake but the trail was pretty much unmarked," mentioned one visitor describing their experience at a state park in the region.
Tips for camping with families
Trail selection: Choose appropriate trails based on children's abilities. "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," advised one camper about their experience at Robbers Cave State Park.
Seasonal activities: Schedule visits during warmer months for full amenity access. "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," shared a family about their experience.
Recreation variety: Plan for multiple activities beyond water sports. "The girls rode bikes, swam at the pool and in the lake, the wife and I fished along the creek below the dam, all in all it was a fun weekend," noted a reviewer describing their family camping experience.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose sites away from main roads for reduced noise. "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," advised one RVer.
Weather preparation: Southeastern Oklahoma experiences rapid weather changes. "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," commented a visitor after experiencing variable conditions during their stay.
Insect protection: Bring appropriate repellents, especially near equestrian trails. "Horses do access some of the trails so horse flies are prevalent in those areas, I recommend bug spray," warned a camper about common conditions in the region.
