The Ouachita National Forest surrounds Stigler, Oklahoma, offering visitors varied terrain with elevations ranging from 500 to 2,500 feet. Pine-covered ridges and hardwood valleys characterize this region, with campgrounds positioned around several lakes and near trail systems. Summer temperatures often exceed 90°F while spring and fall provide milder camping conditions between 60-80°F.
What to do
Horseback riding trails: Cedar Lake Equestrian Campground provides direct access to trails throughout the Ouachita National Forest with terrain suitable for all experience levels. "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 Kent B. about Robbers Cave State Park.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple lakes near Stigler offer productive fishing spots for various species. "Great place to camp and boat. Good fishing spots as well," reports Tyler H. about Taylor Ferry. Many campgrounds provide direct water access or boat ramps for anglers.
Hiking diverse trails: The region features trail systems ranging from easy lake loops to challenging mountain paths. "The trail around the lake is flat and easy but other more difficult trails aren't far away," shares Danielle L. about Cedar Lake. Many trails connect directly to camping areas for convenient access.
What campers like
Natural surroundings: The pine forest setting creates a peaceful atmosphere at many campgrounds. "This campground is beautiful. Clean showers with hot water. Swimming for the kids and a playground. There are sites for people with horses also. And you can go up on the mountain to catch the views," reports Cathy P. about Cedar Lake Equestrian Campground.
Water recreation: Lakes in the area provide swimming, fishing and boating opportunities. "We spent two afternoons swimming in Lake Carlton. The designated swim area has a very rocky drop-off for an entrance, but once out it was very nice swimming," shares Kyle H. from Robbers Cave State Park.
Accessibility to trails: Many visitors appreciate how easily they can access trails directly from their campsites. "With so many trails that you can access just by walking out of the camp site. This is my favorite spot to camp in Oklahoma," explains Matthew E. about Ouachita National Forest Cedar Lake Recreation Area.
What you should know
Facilities maintenance: Bathroom conditions vary across campgrounds and can change seasonally. "Cedar Lake is going to be closed for few weeks during Fall of 2019 for maintenance and repairs. I would be sure and call office before traveling there in hopes of camping!" advises Susan F.
Supply planning: The remote location of many campgrounds means limited access to stores. "The closest store/town is about 45 minutes so be sure to bring everything you need with you," cautions Kristi B. about Cedar Lake Equestrian Camp.
Seasonal conditions: Water levels at lakes can fluctuate significantly. "We were told that the lake would be low for the next two years for reconstruction of the dam. Because of the low water you can walk very far into the water from where we were staying," reports Elizabeth B. about Taylor Ferry.
Tips for camping with families
Activities for children: Many campgrounds offer family-friendly amenities beyond camping. "The park's claim to fame is outlaws such as Belle Starr, the Dalton Gang, and Jesse James used it as a hideout from the law. This was going to be our first full week of vacation spent in the popup, and our first camping trip outside of Missouri," shares Kyle H.
Playground access: Some campgrounds include dedicated play areas for children. "There is a concrete pier that is located along the swim ropes that you can climb up and jump off of. Besides swimming you could rent peddle boats, canoes, and paddle boards to go exploring," notes Kyle H.
Nature learning opportunities: Cedar Lake offers chances for wildlife viewing and nature education. "Saw a ton of wild turkeys and two cottonmouth snakes," reports Amelia S. The area supports diverse wildlife and plant species for children to observe.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Look for campgrounds with appropriately sized spaces for your equipment. "The campground is great except no sewer connections. The boat ramp is fantastic, great views of the lake and plenty of trees most sites are shaded," explains Royce A. about Taylor Ferry.
Utility considerations: Water quality may require filtration at some campgrounds. "I do advise having a water filter system on your rig," recommends Elizabeth B. about Taylor Ferry. Most equestrian campgrounds near Stigler offer electric hookups, but full-service sites with sewer connections are less common.
Accessibility factors: Consider road access and parking space when bringing larger rigs. "The park is split in half by Hwy 2 with the east side of the park consisting of the RV campgrounds, cabins, and Belle Starr Lodge," notes Kyle H. about Robbers Cave State Park, providing insight into the layout.
