Arcadia Lake Campground sits approximately 20 miles northeast of Midwest City, Oklahoma, with elevations ranging between 1,000 and 1,050 feet. The area features clay soil that can become muddy after rain, impacting trail conditions for equestrian users. Most camping facilities maintain moderate temperatures year-round with summer highs regularly exceeding 90°F during peak camping season.
What to do
Wildlife viewing: Visitors to Arcadia Lake frequently spot native wildlife throughout the day and evening. "Lots of wildlife. Very peaceful around the campfire with my team members," according to Kara M. The area supports diverse bird populations visible from campsites.
Water recreation: Multiple access points allow for varied activities on the water. "Walking distance to the beautiful lake. Fairly private site lots of trees between each," notes Madison P. about Arcadia Lake. Boat ramps at several locations provide easy water entry points.
Trail riding: The extensive trail network at Lake Carl Blackwell serves as one of the primary equestrian destinations in the region. "Offers Equestrian trails, hiking trails, and bicycling trails. Our favorite in-state campground," says David D. Trails vary in difficulty with routes suitable for beginners and experienced riders.
What campers like
Lake proximity: Many visitors appreciate waterfront sites found at Little Axe — Lake Thunderbird State Park. "Stayed here for a couple nights, few other campers. Site was straight across from the lake. Got some good hiking in," shares Valerie C. Campgrounds typically offer multiple waterfront options.
Site privacy: The natural spacing between campsites provides reasonable separation at several campgrounds. "Quiet and flat camp spot," says Jay F. about Lake Thunderbird. The tree coverage between sites offers additional screening from neighboring campers.
Clean facilities: South Dam - Lake Thunderbird State Park maintains well-kept amenities according to visitors. "Absolutely loved it here. Beautiful place to stay. Fire pit at each spot. Right off the lake. Bathrooms and showers. Highly recommend!" notes Bailey. The bathroom facilities receive regular maintenance.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Campground conditions vary throughout the year with specific challenges during different seasons. "We have taken our family to Arcadia many times to camp. While it's close to the city, it feels far away. Lake activities and hiking are available," explains Angela H.
Reservation requirements: Many sites fill quickly, especially during weekends and holidays. "We have been here many times and will definitely be back. Always easy to get to and a very enjoyable time. Camping sites are away from the day use areas, keeping traffic by the site to a minimum," notes Stephen S.
Horse facilities: Bell Cow Lake Campground C offers specific amenities for equestrians. "There are miles of equestrian trails. Hiked down one and the trail was very peaceful and beautiful. It had recently rained a lot, so I had a thick layer of red mud from the hike, but glad I hiked it," reports Leslie N. Riders need to check trail conditions before arrival.
Tips for camping with families
Beach swimming: Several lakes offer designated swimming areas appropriate for children. "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. about Lake Thunderbird. Swimming areas typically feature gradual entry points suitable for younger swimmers.
Playgrounds: Multiple campgrounds feature play areas for children. "There's a quiet cove for fishing, good beaches and lake access, a play gym for kiddos and clean bathrooms," says Tracy C. These areas provide activity options during downtime at camp.
Wildlife education: Liberty Lake offers nature observation opportunities suited to family learning. "Away from the hustle and bustle of town it's quiet and remote. That's about it though.. there's a couple of sites for camping all entirely too close to each other," notes Jessica W. Morning hours typically provide the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
Tips from RVers
Hookup options: Several campgrounds offer multiple hookup configurations. "This park has a handful of full hookup sites, a greater number of sites with electric only, and a large number of tent/rv sites with no hookups. There are water fill points conveniently located throughout the park," explains Dale Y. about Central State Park.
Dump stations: Convenient waste disposal facilities exist at most area campgrounds. "Multiple new dump stations in each area. Bathrooms were very clean. Most all campsites are right on the water," shares David D. about Lake Carl Blackwell. Most stations remain accessible even during off-peak seasons.
Leveling considerations: Site conditions vary significantly between campgrounds and individual sites. "The site had a spacious gravel pad, a sturdy picnic table on a concrete pad, a fire pit, a grill, and even a standing-height area that was perfect for setting up our camp kitchen," notes Nashoba_tohbi about Central State Park Campground.
