Tent camping around Skiatook Lake offers access to Oklahoma's diverse terrain of rolling hills, hardwood forests, and tallgrass prairie. The lake spans 10,190 acres with 160 miles of shoreline at normal elevation. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing, while summer highs regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity, making spring and fall optimal camping seasons.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Verdigris River, anglers regularly catch impressive fish. One camper reported, "I caught a 12 pound Drum! I was 22 and so proud of that fish!! Built a fire and cleaned him. Wrapped in foil and cooked with fried potatoes and corn on the cob!!"
Swimming access: During warmer months, Huge Great Bus Camping provides a natural swimming hole surrounded by wooded areas. According to visitor reviews, the property is "Primitive but upgrades coming" with space for "Tents, campers, cars, and RVs allowed."
Wildlife viewing: Caney Bend campground near Pawhuska offers excellent wildlife spotting about 35 miles from Skiatook Lake. A visitor noted seeing "a great amount of wildlife such as birds, woodland critters and even a lizard" during their stay, with minimal crowds and only "one other camper during my time here."
What campers like
Secluded camping: Three Ponds Community provides private camping spaces with structural options beyond standard tents. A recent visitor noted, "This has been a great experience. Especially for a solo trip. Offer A frame structure. There is currently no running water due to colder temperatures. But once it warms water is on site."
Off-season quiet: The shoulder seasons offer significantly reduced crowds at most Skiatook Lake campgrounds. A camper at Sunset Bay mentioned the campground was "empty and quiet during our stay," providing a more peaceful experience than during peak summer months.
Accessibility options: Many campgrounds offer multiple ways to access sites beyond standard drive-in camping. Sunset Bay provides boat-in, drive-in, and walk-in access options, allowing campers flexibility in how they approach their camping experience.
What you should know
Seasonal water availability: Water access varies significantly by season across campgrounds. Three Ponds Community specifically notes that "There is currently no running water due to colder temperatures. But once it warms water is on site," requiring winter campers to bring additional water supplies.
Gate security varies: Some campgrounds implement different security measures. A local observer notes that Sky Valley Acres is a "Hidden gem tucked away off the main roads, well maintained and peaceful," while comparing another nearby camp: "The other camp located just a short distance away is gated (Maned) and the sites all have water and electric."
Reservation requirements: Several campgrounds operate differently regarding reservations. Huge Great Bus Camping requires advance coordination, as the owner explains: "It doesn't have an address. When someone makes an appointment or books I meet them and guide them in."
Tips for camping with families
Security considerations: Not all campgrounds maintain the same safety standards. One experienced visitor cautions about Sunset Bay: "This area used to gather a lot of riff-raff. If you want to feel a bit more secure, I recommend the other camp! I would not recommend this as a family vacation site."
Short stays vs. extended trips: Some locations work better for brief visits rather than extended family camping. Verdigris River Park is described as "perfect if you are tent camping and need a quick place to stop and rest for a day or two," with one camper noting "Oologah Lake is beautiful and the hiking trails are beautiful!"
Cabin options for comfort: Redbud Bay provides cabin accommodations for families seeking more comfortable shelter. A repeat visitor shared, "We have camped at Red Bud Bay marina a few times. Love their cabins. We camped once there when it was extremely cold and the water lines froze. But they were right on top of it getting it fixed."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most tent camping areas near Skiatook Lake cannot accommodate larger RVs. Sky Valley Acres offers seven sites with full hookups including electric, water, and sewer connections while maintaining a smaller, more intimate camping experience.
Dump station access: Limited sanitary dump locations exist around the lake. New Mannford Ramp provides dump station facilities for RVs needing to empty waste tanks before or after camping, though it lacks other amenities like showers or trash service.
Spacing considerations: Site proximity varies significantly between campgrounds. At Sunset Bay, one camper pointed out the first campground sites are "very close together unless you get the very last one" which is "near a wooded area," while "the first 2 are out in the open, by the roads, do a cartwheel and you are in the next camping spot."
