Tent camping options around Shawnee, Oklahoma include several established campgrounds within a 40-mile radius. The region sits at the cross-section of forests and plains, creating diverse camping environments with elevations ranging from 800 to 1,100 feet. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F from June through September, while spring and fall bring milder conditions and occasional severe weather.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Liberty Lake offers productive fishing for multiple species. According to camper James S., it's a "great place to take the kids, grandkids to Fish and have fun behind the boat on toys." Most lakes in the area maintain fish populations year-round.
Hiking trails: River Run RV Park provides "80 acres with 3 miles of trails to explore" according to reviewer Ashley F., who notes the property has "river access less than a quarter mile away" and "UTV trails abound."
Swimming areas: Romulus Lake provides water recreation options beyond fishing. Reviewer Tristan F. notes the "lake is great for canoeing or kayaking" with camping areas adjacent to water access points.
What campers like
Lake views: Twin Lakes sites feature prime water views. Lisa P. describes the area as having "beautiful sunset views and nice, spacious, clean campsites all with fire pits with attached grill." The concrete picnic tables "make it nice for large groups and for board games."
Peaceful atmosphere: Liberty Lake campsites offer separation from neighboring sites. Hillary B. notes, "We just stayed for one night, it was super quiet and calm. The campsites were minimal but had lots of space and were right on the lake."
Unique experiences: Lazy H Alpaca Ranch offers camping alongside alpacas. Patty S. reports, "We got to pet the Alpacas and the three Great Pyrenees kept us company," providing a distinctive camping experience unavailable elsewhere in the region.
What you should know
Campground status changes: Recent reports indicate some designated camping areas have closed or changed regulations. Nancy B. noted at Twin Lakes that "The designated campground is now closed to camping. We ended up staying at the boat ramp."
Payment systems: Several campgrounds use self-service payment stations that can be difficult to locate. At Liberty Lake, Hillary B. reported, "We couldn't find a place to pay... but we will check in the morning," suggesting inconsistent staffing.
Site limitations: Some campgrounds restrict the type of equipment allowed. That_Other_Grace warns at North Sentinel, "Don't bring your rooftop tents here. They will call the cops on you in the middle of the night and make you leave."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Twin Lakes offers family-friendly facilities beyond campsites. James D. notes the area has "a playground and picnic pavilion which would be good for families," providing activity options when not fishing or swimming.
Swimming safety: Several lakes have designated swimming areas with safety warnings. Julie H. reports that at Twin Lakes "the swimming areas were nice," though parents should note most swimming areas lack lifeguards.
Potential hazards: Shawnee Twin Lakes has natural vegetation that may cause reactions. Zahru A. warns, "As we were exploring the area my wife got bit or came across some ivy," suggesting families should bring first aid supplies for potential plant reactions.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookups: Most campgrounds near Shawnee offer primitive camping without full hookups. Julie H. reports, "We did fine tent camping but nothing for electric hook ups" at Twin Lakes, indicating RVers should prepare for boondocking.
Site conditions: Jessica W. notes that at Liberty Lake "the parking lot is bigger than the grass areas you have to work with," suggesting RVers may find parking but limited space for outdoor setups.
