Lake Thunderbird State Park spans 6,000 acres near Noble, Oklahoma, with eleven distinct campground areas positioned around the central reservoir. The park sits at approximately 1,100 feet elevation and experiences temperature variations of up to 30 degrees between daytime and nighttime during spring and fall camping seasons. Each camping area offers different levels of access to park amenities, with varying proximity to the lake shoreline.
What to do
Hiking trails: The park offers accessible walking paths for all skill levels. "We got some good hiking in," notes Valerie C. about her experience at Little Axe Campground.
Mountain biking: Explore the network of trails throughout the park. "We are here for a few days and will come back again to do more. Great view of the dam and the lake from the dock and they allow one to bike and walk across the dam," reports Teresa T. about her visit to South Dam.
Archery range: Practice your skills at the dedicated archery facility. "In addition to water activities the park offers hunting, horse rental and boarding, equestrian trails, hiking, mountain biking, nature trails, a nature center, and an archery range," explained Stephen & Theresa B. during their stay at Little Axe.
Nature center programs: Visit the educational facility with ranger-led activities. "Ernie at the nature center is fantastic and the kids all had a blast," shared Tracy C. about her class trip to Critter Alley Campground.
What campers like
Waterfront campsites: Many sites provide direct lake views. "This was a back in site right on the water. We looked at some other areas where you were so far from the water you wouldn't even know you were at a lake," mentioned Jil S. about Little Axe Campground.
Shaded camping spots: Trees provide relief from summer sun. "Very nice under the trees with trails," noted Teresa T. about her experience at Hog Creek West.
Off-season tranquility: Weekday visits during non-summer months offer quieter camping. "We stayed Monday and Tuesday night and it was very quiet. Great and friendly host. Sites are nice and spread out so you're not right on top of each other," reports Rick about his stay at Turkey Pass.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple fishing spots throughout the park. "Nice little peninsula, watched the sun come up over the water. Quiet and flat camp spot," described Jay F. about his experience at Little Axe.
What you should know
Water quality concerns: The lake water has a distinctive color. "Typical central Oklahoma red water. As far as that is concerned nothing has really changed," explains Brian B. about his experience at Little Sandy Campground.
Bathroom maintenance varies: Facilities differ between campgrounds. "Bathrooms are older but clean. Showers have HOT water," noted Rod A. about Turkey Pass Campground.
Weekend crowds: Expect busier conditions Friday through Sunday. "If you have a 30 amp rv/camper you can get a spot at one of the 3 decent Thunderbird parks most of the time same day no reservation. If you have a 50 amp better go parkit on Thursday so you have a weekend spot," advises Nicholas L.
Security concerns: Watch your belongings at all times. "There is a bunch of smash and grab break ins here. Just happened to me yesterday. Was only on a hike literally 20 minutes came back and my passenger side window was busted out," warned Kristy B. about Clear Bay Point.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer child-friendly play areas. "Perfect for biking/scooters/walking/swimming. I will try to stay on the outer rim the next time we go, so that we can enjoy meals by the water," recommends Noelle H. about Little Axe Campground.
Swimming areas: Designated swimming zones provide safer water recreation. "There is a designated swimming area in the campgrounds. Beautiful, wooded park with large lake that has a section for watersports and fishing," shares Noelle H.
Group camping: Critter Alley accommodates larger parties. "Came with a group of four had plenty of room to for all tents and to make a fire," mentions Lani H. about her experience at Critter Alley.
Nature education: Take advantage of the nature center. "The visitor center was quite nice and the staff quite friendly. We only stayed for a night but we had enough time to walk the trails close which were very nice," observed Teresa T. about Hog Creek West.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Choose carefully based on your preferences. "The problem is the road to get to the campsite is TERRIBLY maintained, which much of the rest of the park also seems to be. Beware the Hog Hill area - it's just a parking lot with sites numbered along the edge," warns Deb M. about Hickory Hill.
Tree clearance: Watch for low-hanging branches. "Trees need to be trimed from the campground, you will get your rig scratched. We have a 40 foot fifthwheel and was able to find several sites that would work fot sat dish," advises RICK V. about Turkey Pass.
Campsite spacing: Some areas offer more privacy than others. "If you don't mind being right up against the next camper, Hickory Hill has some full hookup sites right on the water. However, the upper loop of Little Sandy was nice with all the trees and the better-spaced sites," shares Brian B.
Hookup options: Different campgrounds offer varying services. "50 amp, water, sewer dump station on the way out, concrete pad, picnic table under the shade tree, fire pit, 5g T-Mobile cell service," details RICK V. about the amenities at Turkey Pass.
