Camping options near Stringtown, Oklahoma feature distinct terrain transitions between the oak-covered Ouachita Mountains to the southeast and the prairie lands to the west. The area receives an average annual rainfall of 45 inches, creating seasonal creeks and waterways that complement the larger reservoirs and rivers. Temperatures range from 30°F in winter to 95°F in summer, with spring and fall offering milder conditions for outdoor recreation.
What to do
Trout fishing in winter months: Blue River Campground offers unique cold-weather fishing opportunities from November through March when the river is stocked with trout. As one visitor noted, "Stayed during Thanksgiving, after Blue River was stocked with Trout, fishing was awesome. Great family camping and fishing."
Rope swinging and swimming: The Blue River area features several natural swimming areas and rope swings during warmer months. A camper mentioned, "There is a really neat little spot south of the dam with a rope swing." Water temperatures remain cool even in summer due to the spring-fed nature of the river.
Historical exploration: Boggy Depot State Park Campground contains significant Civil War history and Native American heritage sites. According to a visitor, "A very neat place for people that are interested in civil war history... In 1972, Boggy Depot was added to the National Register of Historic Places. It even has a cemetary in the campground."
Kayaking and canoeing: K River Campground provides direct water access for paddling adventures. One reviewer shared, "Right next to the river for kayaking, canoeing or just relaxing. Off-road vehicle trails a petting zoo on site."
What campers like
Secluded tent camping spots: McGee Creek State Park's Tent Hill area offers more isolated camping experiences away from RV sections. A camper explained, "The thing we really liked about this particular site was that there are only 4 tent sites here, so it's secluded and nice and quiet. There is very little traffic driving by as well."
Night sky viewing: The minimal light pollution around McGee Creek State Park Campground creates excellent stargazing conditions. A visitor noted, "This place is really dark at night and some campsites are very private. You can see so many stars."
Wildlife observation: The area's diverse habitats support varied wildlife viewing opportunities. According to a Blue River visitor, "The water is so clear, you can see the fish in it." Early morning fog across lakes creates scenic photography opportunities.
Mature shade trees: Boggy Depot State Park features large oak trees that provide natural cooling during hot months. A review highlights, "It is remote in the country nestled in very old oak trees which makes it beautiful. It is very shady with over a hundred camping spots."
What you should know
License requirements: Blue River Camp requires all visitors to have proper documentation. A recent visitor clarified, "To enter the grounds you need a hunting/fishing license or a 3day wildlife conservation passport. The passport is for any activity on the grounds, excluding hunting or fishing and they are $51 currently."
Restroom limitations: Many campgrounds feature basic facilities with varying levels of maintenance. A McGee Creek camper observed, "What we didn't like is that there is only a pit toilet and no water faucets. There is a real bathroom with a shower about a 10-15 minute walk away."
Wildlife precautions: Campers should be aware of native wildlife, including snakes. One Blue River visitor advised, "Hiking is great but watch out for snakes on the ground along trails. I saw a few. There are many snakes such as rattlesnakes and copperheads."
Seasonal water levels: Spring typically brings higher water levels that may impact site availability. A camper noted, "This last year the water level was high so putting a tent on a site near the water was a bit more difficult."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Boggy Depot State Park Campground offers recreational facilities beyond natural attractions. A visitor mentioned, "It has a fishing lake, pretty nature trails, a baseball diamond, a basketball court, a great playground, picnic tables, group picnic shelters, charcoal grills, and comfort restrooms with showers."
Food storage practices: Wildlife can disturb campsites if proper precautions aren't taken. One experienced camper warned, "The raccoons can be aggressive, keep your food put up in your car or a cooler and throw away your trash nightly unless you want to pick it up in pieces the next day. They may rip your tent to get to food, seriously, put it up."
Swimming safety: Blue River offers natural swimming areas with varying conditions. A visitor reported, "There is a bit of green algae, but it is otherwise clear and refreshing." Water depths vary considerably throughout the river system, requiring close supervision of children.
Camp hut options: McGee Creek State Park provides alternatives to tent camping that work well for families. A reviewer explained, "The huts have a set of bunk beds, picnic table, heat and air, fireplace, fireplace, barbecue grill. The huts do not have bathrooms in each hut but have shared bathrooms outside that are clean and kept up."
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Finding level RV spots at certain campgrounds requires planning. One Lane RV Park visitor noted, "Full hookups, level lot and extremely friendly staff that went above and beyond for us for our short stay. It is right near the road so it's not very quiet, but there's not much anyone can do about that."
Seasonal visits: Off-peak camping offers different advantages. As a K River camper shared, "We stayed for 7 days and we were able to have totally relaxed days as well as very active days. The only reason I rated it 4 stars is that it's a work in progress. New cabins were being added and more trails were being cut while we were there."
Hookup availability: The best places to camp near Stringtown, Oklahoma with full services are primarily at developed state parks. McGee Creek offers varied hookup options as described by a visitor: "McGee Creek is a great park if you enjoy camping and fishing with plenty of opportunity to do so both from the shore line and a boat. On the small side for a state park, it still has plenty of tent sites and RV sites for everyone to enjoy."
