Dispersed camping near Talihina, Oklahoma allows for convenient access to the Ouachita Mountains, with elevations ranging from 600 to 2,600 feet. The area features pine-forested mountains and rock formations that create distinct camping environments. Weather varies significantly by season, with summer temperatures often reaching the 90s and winter nights frequently dropping below freezing.
What to do
Equine camping opportunities: Robbers Cave State Park offers specialized camping areas for those traveling with horses. "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.
Explore historical caves: The geological formations that once sheltered outlaws provide interesting exploration sites. "Lots of history at Robbers Cave State Park! Belle Starr famous Lady Outlaw! Jesse James Gang! Beautiful lakes and numerous hiking trails!" shares Eddie J. The hiking trail to the cave is challenging but rewarding, with a ¾-mile path that families can navigate.
Off-road trail riding: K River Campground features extensive off-road vehicle trails nearby. "We learned about this campground through the owners activities with Veterans. We stayed for 7 days and we were able to have totally relaxed days as well as very active days. Right next to the river for kayaking, canoeing or just relaxing. Off-road vehicle trails a petting zoo on site," explains Jerry W.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple access points for fishing exist throughout the area. "Our first visit was in November and the fall color was stunning... Trout fishing just steps away from camp and we had the whole campground to ourselves for the night," reports Neil T. about Robbers Cave.
What campers like
Shade and privacy: Cedar Lake campground receives consistent praise for its spacious, private sites. "The campsite spots themselves are pretty big in size and are separated by trees and bushes. Feels very private. They do have a quiet hour which is after 10pm," explains Ashley W. The tall pines create natural boundaries between sites.
Yurt camping alternatives: Alternative to traditional glamping, yurt camping near Talihina offers comfort without sacrificing the outdoor experience. "We learned about this campground through the owners activities with Veterans. We stayed for 7 days and we were able to have totally relaxed days as well as very active days," a camper noted about K River Campground, which features yurt accommodations among its options.
Lakeside camping: Waterfront sites provide direct access to swimming and boating. "We camped in a tent at site 55 of Brooken Cove. It's an RV site but I'm not sure how you would fit an RV into the space without blocking the entryway, which is shared between this site and the adjacent site, 54. It has electricity and a water spigot that is shared with the adjacent site. It's right by the lake and has a few trees, along with a fire ring and table," Jennifer explains.
Seasonal variety: Different seasons offer unique camping 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 Therese about Brooken Cove.
What you should know
Variable bathroom conditions: Facility maintenance can vary by location and season. "Showers need cleaning and water pressure is very poor," notes Susan C. about Robbers Cave State Park. Other campgrounds receive better reviews for their facilities.
Campsite selection tips: Research specific sites before booking when possible. "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," Cameron L. advises about Brooken Cove.
Weather preparedness: Storms can develop quickly in the mountains. "Unfortunately we got rained out hours later. The manager (John) even wanted us to stay in a storm shelter room if the rain got worse," shares Rocky F. about Shadow Mountain Campground.
Reservation systems: Some campgrounds use honor systems for after-hours check-ins. "After hours checkin is still by the honor system!!" reports one camper about CMA Iron Mountain Cabins and Campground, highlighting the relaxed approach at certain locations.
Tips for camping with families
Petting zoo access: Several campgrounds offer animal encounters for children. "We learned about this campground through the owners activities with Veterans... Off-road vehicle trails a petting zoo on site," notes Jerry W. about K River Campground.
Water activities for different ages: Various swimming options exist depending on your comfort level. "Me, my son also got to play miniature for the first time at the course located next to the pool. One word of warning the golf course is very dated with carpet ripped or completely missing in spots. This did not slow us down at all, it just needs a little work," Kyle H. shares about Robbers Cave.
Family-friendly hiking options: Consider trail difficulty ratings before setting out with children. "We tried a few trails but were too hard for us. We have a daughter with cerebral palsy that we pull in a wagon and the trails were too rough for the wagon," notes Matt B. about Robbers Cave State Park.
Seasonal programming: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park offers structured activities for families. "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," explains Logan D.
Tips from RVers
Limited pull-through availability: Many sites require backing in. "The sites were level, and were Pull-Thru so we didn't even unhook. Full hookups, Some shade, a dump station," notes Joel R. about the KOA campground near Sallisaw.
Hookup considerations: Not all sites offer complete utilities. "Electric and water but no sewer if you're close to the river which we were," explains Cindy W. about K River Campground.
Elevation and access challenges: Some campgrounds present navigation difficulties for larger RVs. "I don't know why its not packed," states Jason L. about Iron Mountain, adding "I drive truck, always have a hard time getting in/out of places with a semi and usually end up not getting to camp."
Site levelness issues: Be prepared with leveling blocks. "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," explains Cameron L. about their experience with a large fifth-wheel at Brooken Cove.
