Lake Thunderbird State Park spans 6,000 acres near Shawnee, Oklahoma, with a 2,700-acre reservoir at its center. Campsites sit at approximately 1,050 feet elevation with temperatures averaging 72°F in peak summer camping months. The region's oak forests create natural windbreaks that protect tent camping areas during spring weather fronts.
What to do
Hiking trails: Little Axe Campground offers numerous hiking opportunities along the peninsula and dam. "Got some good hiking in. Site was straight across from the lake," notes Valerie C. who stayed at Lake Thunderbird Little Axe Campground.
Fishing spots: Wes Watkins Reservoir provides multiple fishing access points for anglers. "This is a large paved parking lot overlooking a large lake. There are two pit toilets you can use at your own risk," reports anna S. about Wes Watkins Reservoir.
Swimming areas: South Dam at Lake Thunderbird features designated swimming beaches with gentle slopes for safer water entry. A camper shares, "Absolutely loved it here. Beautiful place to stay. Fire pit at each spot. Right off the lake. Bathrooms and showers. Highly recommend!" according to Bailey at South Dam - Lake Thunderbird State Park.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Arcadia Lake campers appreciate the roominess between sites. "Great campsite! Picnic tables and fire pits. Walking distance to the beautiful lake. Fairly private site lots of trees between each. Plenty of sites to choose from water front or in the woods," reports Madison P. from Arcadia Lake.
Concrete pads: RV sites at Happy Acres feature level concrete pads that stay clean regardless of weather. "Reserved for one day ended up staying an extra day because it was so relaxing. Concrete pads level and places to walk and wander around the ponds an through the pines," writes Dante B. about Happy Acres.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the cleanliness of shower facilities at Oklahoma City East KOA. "Their bath house is second to none. Members of our group rave about how clean and well kept the entire campground is," notes Jacquelyn L. who regularly hosts events at the campground.
What you should know
Water quality concerns: Some campers report brown water at certain campgrounds. "Water was brown, but we have a Berkey filter, so it wasn't a problem for us. I wouldn't be happy if we didn't have the Berkey, and weren't still winterized. Use your inline filters here!" advises Tashi K. about Oklahoma City East KOA.
Campground closures: Recent changes affect availability at some locations. "The designated campground is now closed to camping. We ended up staying at the boat ramp," warns Nancy B. about Shawnee Twin Lakes.
Security patrols: Most campgrounds near Shawnee maintain regular security checks. "Quiet at night, patrolled regularly. Fun, nice, trip," mentions Ken T. about his experience at Wes Watkins Reservoir.
Tips for camping with families
Playground amenities: Children can enjoy dedicated play areas while adults set up camp. "Nice playground for the kids, pool was closed (opens Memorial Day to Labor Day), dog park is large and very well shaded," notes Rachel P. about Oklahoma City East KOA.
Swimming beaches: Little Axe Campground offers sandy beach areas suitable for children. "Sandy beach area, sandy & walkable around lakes edge. Bathrooms & showers were like new & very clean," describes Christle C. after camping at Little Axe.
Educational opportunities: Arcadia Lake provides nature learning experiences within a short drive of Shawnee. "Approximately 20-30 minutes from OKC zoo & science museum. Overall wonderful stay with no complaints," shares Rachel P. after visiting the area with children.
Tips from RVers
Trail access for pets: Pet friendly camping near Shawnee, Oklahoma includes Catfish Round-Up RV Park with nearby walking paths. "Great place to stay for the night, easy to get to from I-40, clean and has a great restaurant on site to eat at or take bake to your camper and enjoy!!!" recommends Tammy S.
Overnight convenience: Many campgrounds offer pull-through sites that accommodate large rigs without unhooking towed vehicles. "We are in a 33 ft class pulling a Jeep Wrangler, and we did not unhook the Jeep," notes steve about Catfish Round-Up RV Park.
Weather considerations: Spring camping can bring sudden storms to the Shawnee area. "Even during an extended power outage during inclement weather, they made sure we had a heat source," shares Jacquelyn L. about Oklahoma City East KOA's staff response during challenging conditions.
