Sportsmans Lake spans approximately 15 miles of shoreline with spring-fed waters that maintain comfortable temperatures year-round. Located within 10 minutes of the city of Seminole, this pet-friendly camping destination offers easy access to supplies while preserving a secluded atmosphere. The lake prohibits jet skiing and water skiing, creating a quieter environment for anglers and paddlers.
What to do
Horseback riding trails: At Sportsmans Lake, equestrian enthusiasts can access dedicated riding paths for $3 daily or purchase an annual pass for $30. "This is a pretty decent little lake it's fishing only they do have a small swimming area there is a lot of horse trails which you can also hike and lots of different camp sites around the lake," notes Aaron T.
Kayaking on calm waters: The no-motorboat rule at Sportsmans Lake makes it ideal for paddle sports. Campers can enjoy peaceful paddling without competing with speedboats or jet skis. "It has become popular for kayaking," mentions Melanie W., adding that the lake has "3 boat ramps, 2 covered fishing docks."
Swimming at designated beaches: Little Axe at Lake Thunderbird State Park offers a sandy swimming area for pets and families. "Sandy beach area, sandy & walkable around lakes edge. Bathrooms & showers were like new & very clean," reports Christle C.
Night fishing: The shoreline access at many campgrounds allows for both daytime and evening fishing. Many campsites position directly along the water, providing convenient fishing access from your campsite. "Nice camp spots with full hookups and good water pressure. We will be back soon!" shares Amber D. about the lakeside sites at Sportsmans Lake.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Wewoka Lake provides habitat for various wildlife. "It has a small RV campground and some primitive campsites along waters edge. It is always active with jet skiing. It has a swim beach and a few pavilions," says Melanie W. The lake hosts an annual 4th of July festival that draws crowds.
On-site dining options: Catfish Round-Up RV Park features a restaurant with home-style cooking. "The adjoining restaurant is very good, very friendly," writes Dave M. Another camper elaborates: "They came around with apple fritters while we were looking at the menu, and when the meal was served they came around with fresh baked rolls. Good food, great staff."
Affordable camping rates: Sportsmans Lake maintains reasonable fees with primitive sites at $8, water and electric at $15, and full hookup sites at $20. Seniors receive discounted rates of $12 for water/electric and $17 for full hookup sites. Monthly camping options are available November through March at rates of $400-500.
Private coves and camping areas: The campgrounds around Sportsmans Lake are distributed across different coves, providing more separation between camping areas. "The campgrounds are actually located on the southwest side of the lake in cove 1 and cove 3, make sure you don't arrive after 10pm as you can then only access cove 2 and cove 4," advises Vanessa M.
What you should know
Gate closure times: Access restrictions apply at certain times. At Sportsmans Lake, gates lock nightly, and late arrivals have limited options. "Make sure you don't arrive after 10pm as you can then only access cove 2 and cove 4. You can camp late hours in those areas, but the population in this area is very active at 2am and it just isn't comfortable," cautions Vanessa M.
Bathroom conditions vary: While most campgrounds offer shower facilities, maintenance quality differs. At Prague Lake Campground, "Only 8 spaces with full hook ups, but you might be sharing utility poles. Sites are paved but not level you'll need to level your camper," reports Rod A., who also noted "bathrooms need lots of work."
Cell service limitations: Reception can be spotty depending on location. Prague Lake Campground gets "AT&T signal is 1 bar 5G" according to a recent review. This can affect communication and mobile internet access while camping.
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds feature paved but uneven sites. Rod A. notes that at Prague Lake Campground, "Sites are paved but not level you'll need to level your camper." Bringing leveling blocks is recommended for RVs at these locations.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature play areas for children. At Okemah Lake, Leslie N. reminisces about "play equipment from my childhood that built character and made me remember the good old days," adding that the grounds were "extremely peaceful & beautiful!"
Swimming areas with gradual entry: Designated swimming spots provide safer water access for children. "It has a nice swimming area and even on the hottest days the water feels good because it is a spring fed lake," notes Melanie W. about Sportsmans Lake.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Keep children engaged with wildlife watching opportunities. Melanie W. mentions that at Sportsmans Lake, "There are many geese on this lake, they have there own island where they hatch their babies every year. Lots of raccoons and a couple foxes. At night you really hear a lot of coyotes and owls."
Ranger interactions: Park rangers at some locations take time to engage with young visitors. Kaitlyn T. appreciated that at Sportsmans Lake, "The park ranger stopped and played with my children telling them about the geese and where good fishing spots were."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for large rigs: At Happy Acres RV Park & Campground, big rigs are accommodated with 62 sites available. "For anyone looking for an overnight or long time stay around the Oklahoma City area this is the place. We were received with a smile as well as a free coffee cup," shares William M., adding "they have 32 acres of hiking trails."
Hookup variations: Most campgrounds offer different hookup options. Steve from Catfish Round-Up RV Park notes, "The campground is $27.50 per night, they have wifi, full hookup, and there are over the air tv stations. We are in a 33 ft class pulling a Jeep Wrangler, and we did not unhook the Jeep."
Overnight convenience factors: When planning an overnight stay, consider proximity to essentials. At Catfish Round-Up RV Park, "There is a restaurant within walking distance and fuel stations nearby," according to Dennis W., making it convenient for quick stopovers while traveling through the area.
Seasonal rate advantages: Sportsmans Lake offers monthly rates from November through March at $400 for water/electric sites and $500 for full-service hookups, providing an economical option for snowbirds or seasonal campers in pet-friendly camping near Seminole, Oklahoma.
