Camping around Stigler, Oklahoma centers on Lake Eufaula, the largest lake in the state at over 102,000 acres. The lake region sits at approximately 585 feet above sea level in the foothills of the Sans Bois Mountains. Seasonal temperature fluctuations are significant, with summer highs regularly exceeding 90°F and winter lows often dropping below freezing. Most campgrounds in this area remain open year-round, though water facilities typically shut down during winter months.
What to do
Trout fishing below the dam: At Chicken Creek, visitors can access one of only two year-round trout fisheries in Oklahoma. "Lake Tenkiller is an amazing location to scuba dive. Its waters are clear and cool from a distance of 8 to 28 feet. A diver will have the opportunity to investigate a sunken airplane fuselage, school bus, helicopter and two boats," explains one visitor.
Hiking historical trails: Robbers Cave State Park features caves once used by outlaws. "The hiking trail to the cave is steep and rocky with big drop-offs, so be careful with small children. It is a ¾ of a mile trail that my son absolutely loved. He was trying to find the robber that was hiding out," notes one family camper.
Water recreation: Seasonal temperature differences affect water activities. During summer months, swimming beaches at Brooken Cove Campground offer shallow entry points for families. "There are several sandy beach areas and the water is shallow for a great distance out, making it good for swimming," writes a camper, though they caution to "beware of an abundance of geese who frequent the park."
What campers like
Off-season solitude: Winter and early spring visits offer quiet experiences. "We camped 8/28/2020 - 9/3/2020 in Space 62 right on the water, 30 amp, shared water, open shot to satellites. Sewer dump and trash bins nearby. Nice boat ramp and sandy but rocky beaches," reports a visitor to Brooken Cove.
Equestrian facilities: Horse owners appreciate dedicated trails and camping areas. "This is such a great park, one of the best I have ever been to for equine camping. Horses are very happy here, just remember to bring your coggins paperwork," notes a Robbers Cave visitor.
Family-oriented activities: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park offers structured recreation beyond standard camping. "Clean facilities. Lots of activities for the kids such as pool, lake inflatables, putt-putt, indoor guided crafts, sand sifting, fire pits, and playground. You are able to cross over to the sister park and enjoy their amenities," shares a family who stayed there.
What you should know
Bathroom conditions vary widely: Facility maintenance differs between campgrounds. At Sequoyah State Park, "showers will cost you, so bring quarters. Plus, the ones we saw looked like they had black mold all around. Needless to say, we did not use the showers."
Reservation requirements: Some campgrounds require advance booking. At Gentry Creek, a camper warns, "Be aware, you will not be allowed into the park without a prior reservation. My husband and I came late into the area and needed a place to sleep. The website did not say that reservations were REQUIRED, just that they were available."
Site spacing: Many campgrounds have close quarters. "The RV FHU sites in the Deer Run campground are on top of one another. We had a neighbor's picnic table maybe a foot or two at best from the slide out side window who proceeded to burn trash in their firepit the entire weekend," reports a disappointed visitor to Greenleaf State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Splash pad access: Greenleaf State Park offers water recreation beyond the lake. "The absolute best part of this park is the splash pad. It was the best splash pad we've been to. They had a cool slide and we had a blast," writes an enthusiastic visitor.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Seasonal animal sightings enhance family experiences. "I love this small park. It offers a lot of amenities, but overall it's about the cave trails and lots of hiking opportunities. We went in the early fall so too cool to enjoy the small lakes but our campsite had great views of one of the lakes," notes a Robbers Cave camper.
Scheduled activities: Some campgrounds offer organized events. "Oklahoma Park staff were very knowledgeable, friendly, and willing to answer any of my questions. Also when you get to camp they will give you a schedule of all the events that are going on throughout the week you are staying," shares a Robbers Cave visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Many RV sites have limitations worth researching. "We've stayed here multiple times and love it. Beautiful place. Some sites are a little tricky backing into with 29' trailer though," advises a Chicken Creek camper.
Pad conditions: Level sites are inconsistent throughout the area. "Site 51 was the best view. Long but narrow paved spot. We couldn't back all the way up because the tree was too low, but the spot was long enough where it wasn't an issue. The water spicket was about 80 ft away," reports a Brooken Cove visitor, adding "We have a 13.5 ft tall and 45 ft long fifth wheel. Mosquitoes were pretty bad so be prepared."
Utility connections: Water and electrical hookups often require additional equipment. "In our site we needed 50 ft of water hose and I would suggest bringing a 'y' water connector," advises a Greenleaf State Park camper who explains that "the only disadvantage to this park is some sites share water."
