Tent camping options near Schulter, Oklahoma span multiple lakes and state parks within a 30-mile radius. The area sits in Oklahoma's Green Country region at approximately 700 feet elevation with hot summers reaching into the 90s from June through September. Winter temperatures frequently drop below freezing, making spring and fall the most comfortable seasons for tent camping in this eastern Oklahoma region.
What to do
Fishing at multiple lakes: Okmulgee Lake at Okmulgee & Dripping State Park Campground offers quality bass fishing opportunities. According to one camper, "This state park is off the beaten path and is on the shores of a very good bass fishing lake."
Horseback riding options: Sequoyah Bay State Park has horseback riding trails among its recreational offerings. A visitor noted, "Lots of things to do. Tennis, horse back riding. Even square dancing. Great fun!"
Shell and driftwood collecting: The shoreline near Newt Graham Lock and Dam provides opportunities for natural treasure hunting. A visitor explains, "You can hike the shoreline down a ways and look for shells and cool driftwood."
Wildlife observation: Various campgrounds offer chances to view local wildlife. Near Gates Nature Preserve, you can see cattle and other animals. The area around Newt Graham Dam has diverse wildlife, though visitors should note, "Watch the rocks on the right side of the damn when the weather is nice bc snakes like to hide out in them."
What campers like
Lake views at sunrise: Jackson Bay Recreation Area offers exceptional views over the water. One camper shared, "Beautiful view over the lake at sunrise!"
Peaceful atmospheres: Many campgrounds offer quiet settings, especially on weekdays. A visitor to Sunset Bay commented, "Very nice and clean campgrounds. It was empty and quiet during our stay."
Creek-side campsites: Gates Nature Preserve features tent sites along a creek that provides natural sounds and cooling. A camper described their experience: "Our little campsite was so cozy with a table, a fire pit and a grill. It was right next to the creek!"
Uncrowded fishing spots: Less-visited areas like Newt Graham Lock and Dam provide fishing opportunities without crowds. According to a visitor, "Not many people go down there."
What you should know
Access limitations: Some campgrounds have restricted access. Arrowhead Point has significant access issues, with one camper reporting, "There is one road in to this camping area. It's blocked off by cement barricades so you can't access it."
Pack-out requirements: Jackson Bay Recreation Area lacks trash facilities, requiring visitors to take all waste with them. A camper noted, "No Trash cans means more responsibility....and some people just can't handle it."
Stay limits: Free camping areas have time restrictions. Jackson Bay Recreation Area allows stays up to two weeks, with a camper confirming, "Amazing free campground, you can stay here for 14 days."
Road conditions: Access to several camping areas requires driving on unpaved roads. Regarding Newt Graham Lock and Dam, a visitor warns, "Getting to it is sketchy, the road turns to dirt and there are areas that people unfortunately dump trash."
Tips for camping with families
Level sites for easy setup: Sequoyah Bay State Park Campground offers family-friendly camping spots. A visitor observed, "This campground has easy, level sites at a nice angle, so you aren't facing right at the back of someone else's trailer."
Trail explorations: Gates Nature Preserve offers family-friendly hiking trails through natural Oklahoma landscapes. One visitor recommended, "Jill was so welcoming and warm, and she even showed us around some of the beautiful trails (which are definitely 'hidden' gems)."
Waterfront access considerations: Jackson Bay offers lake access, but reaching the water requires some effort. A camper advises, "The lake was very calm, but difficult to access right in front of camp, I would suggest walking to the boat ramp for that."
Security concerns: Families should consider campground safety when planning. Regarding Sunset Bay, a local resident warned, "If you want to feel a bit more secure, I recommend the other camp! I would not recommend this as a family vacation site."
Tips from RVers
Dump station accessibility: RVers appreciate convenient facilities at Sequoyah Bay State Park Campground. A camper mentioned, "The host was friendly and helpful, dump sites easy to manage."
Site angles matter: The layout at Sequoyah Bay provides privacy between camping units. A visitor noted, "This campground has easy, level sites at a nice angle, so you aren't facing right at the back of someone else's trailer."
Water proximity trade-offs: Lakefront sites may require more driving skill but offer better views. An RVer at Sequoyah Bay observed, "We did see some sites near the water that looked tricky to get into, but you'd be right by the water, so that's the trade off, I guess."
Budget considerations: Free camping at Jackson Bay Recreation Area appeals to cost-conscious travelers, with one camper confirming, "Amazing free campground, you can stay here for 14 days. No amenities, but it's well taken care of."
