Arcadia Lake offers water access camping sites just 20 minutes from Midwest City, with multiple camping areas and shoreline locations for both tent and RV setups. The lake sits at an elevation of 1,006 feet and features multiple fishing docks accessible to campers year-round. The campgrounds maintain a natural setting with established sites that include fire rings and picnic tables.
What to do
Fishing at Bell Cow Lake: At Bell Cow Lake Campground C, campers can enjoy lake fishing with easy water access. The lake contains many stumps and trees, which keeps boat speeds slower and creates good fish habitat. "Lake is full of stumps and trees which keeps the boats at a slower speed," notes Christine N., who found the area quieter than other nearby camping options.
Equestrian trails: Bell Cow Lake Campground provides extensive horse trails for riders bringing their own mounts. The trail system winds through wooded areas and along the shoreline. "There are miles of equestrian trails. Hiked down one and the trail was very peaceful and beautiful," reports Leslie N., who explored the trails on foot despite some muddy conditions.
Swimming at Shawnee Twin Lakes: Shawnee Twin Lakes offers designated swimming areas with sandy beaches. The twin lakes setup provides options for both boating and swimming activities. "The swimming areas were nice and it was perfect for our boat," mentions Julie H., who found the lake particularly good for water recreation despite limited hookup options.
Alpaca viewing: At Lazy H Alpaca Ranch, camping includes the unique opportunity to interact with alpacas on a working ranch. "We got to pet the Alpacas and the 3 Great Pyrenees kept us company," shares Patty S., who camped there in January.
What campers like
Lake views: At Arcadia Lake, campers appreciate waterfront sites with direct lake access. The shoreline camping offers both wooded seclusion and water views. "Great campsite! Picnic tables and fire pits. Walking distance to the beautiful lake. Fairly private site lots of trees between each," reports Madison P., who enjoyed the balance of privacy and lake proximity.
Clean facilities: El Reno West KOA maintains clean shower houses and laundry facilities that receive consistent positive comments from visitors. "The bathrooms are super nice and clean. Pond has great crappie fishing too! It's way less crowded than the state parks," notes Brittany J., highlighting the lower crowd levels compared to public parks.
Unique accommodation options: For those interested in yurt camping near Midwest City, Oklahoma, several campgrounds offer alternatives to traditional tent or RV camping. The region provides opportunities for glamping, cabin stays, and yurt rentals within an hour's drive of Midwest City. "We stayed in Site# 66. We had Full hook-up with a paved pull-through," describes Julia H. about her El Reno West KOA stay, though noting the tight spacing between sites.
Peace and quiet: Bell Cow Lake Campground receives praise for its tranquil atmosphere, especially in Area B which tends to be less crowded. "Very pleasantly surprised by this campground. Has everything you need for pretty cheap ($11 for tent/no hookup) including bathrooms, tables, trash, water and more. Only one other car on a weeknight in April, so very quiet and peaceful," shares Rachel S.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Winter camping at Lazy H Alpaca Ranch can be challenging due to cold temperatures, though still enjoyable with proper preparation. "We camped early Jan and it was cold. Kathy was very friendly and helpful," reports Patty S., who camped during winter months and still had a positive experience.
Noise factors: Proximity to highways affects some campgrounds. Bell Cow Lake campers note highway noise from nearby I-44. "One of the only things we did not like was with the campsite being 2 miles from I-44 you could hear the highway traffic all night," mentions Jon B., who otherwise enjoyed the affordable camping experience.
Water conditions: Arcadia Lake has multiple water access points, but conditions vary by season. "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., noting the balance of urban proximity and natural setting.
Changing availability: Some campground areas close seasonally or permanently. "The designated campground is now closed to camping. We ended up staying at the boat ramp," reports Nancy B. about Shawnee Twin Lakes, indicating campers should verify current status before planning trips.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: El Reno West KOA offers multiple recreation options designed specifically for children. "Paved roads were great for bike riding, beautiful lake along the back side of the grounds, nice large dog run, clean and plenty of machines in the laundry area, super cool playground with outdoor workout equipment too," describes Sarah S., highlighting the various activities available.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Several campgrounds feature wildlife viewing opportunities that appeal to children. "Plus the kids got a big kick out of the two Buffalo on the grounds!" adds Sarah S. about El Reno West KOA, noting the unique animal attraction that children particularly enjoyed.
Swimming options: Bell Cow Lake provides family-friendly swimming areas with gradual entry points. "My family and I desperately wanted to go last minute camping. My husband and I being from Wellston, we had been to bell cow but we had never camped there. With 5 adults and 1 infant we camped at area A," shares Danielle C., who found the lake suitable for family camping despite some issues with flies from previous campers.
Clay activities: Bell Cow Lake offers a unique activity with its red clay shorelines. "The lake is filled with red clay. My mom and I harvested some and made little figures and baked them in the sun. We had so much fun," explains Danielle C., describing a creative activity that families can enjoy together.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing concerns: At Rockwell RV Park, RVers note the close proximity of sites, especially in certain sections. "It looks like a big parking lot and the spaces are very close but level. The staff is friendly and helpful. Quiet," reports Jessica E., highlighting both the limitation and positive aspects.
RV-specific amenities: Rockwell RV Park provides indoor facilities uncommon at other area campgrounds. "This park has it all! Even buffalo! Indoor pool. Nice showers, laundry room, clean bathrooms. Coffee and muffins free in the morning!" shares Butch S., mentioning the indoor pool as a particular advantage.
Big rig access considerations: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger RVs equally. "Asked for largest pull through with easy access for a 44' 5th wheel and got a spot in front of office with a electric pole on the corner. No way to pull in with out using 2 spots and several point turn," cautions Daniel about El Reno West KOA, indicating potential challenges for very large rigs.
Hookup variations: Bell Cow Lake offers different hookup options depending on which camping area you choose. "Water hook up and 30 amp. We stayed in 'Area B,' Campsite #4. Several shady spots. Easy water access," explains Christine N., specifying the exact site and amenities available.
