Cabin camping options surround Tenkiller Ferry Lake at elevations ranging from 600-700 feet above sea level. The area experiences hot summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and mild winters with occasional freezing conditions. Several state parks and private campgrounds offer cabin accommodations with varying levels of amenities, from basic shelters to modern facilities with full kitchens.
What to do
Hiking at Greenleaf: Explore well-maintained trails throughout the park's wooded areas and along the lakeshore. "The trails at greenleaf are well maintained and marked. Their primitive camping is accessible and well kept. I enjoy the size of the park it is small and offers a lot of room for exploring," shares one visitor at Greenleaf State Park Campground.
Wildlife observation: Many cabins provide opportunities to spot local wildlife from your doorstep. "Animals! Turtles, deer that like to be petted, frogs croaking at night, owls talking, beavers splashing in the lake and turkeys eating snakes!" reports a camper who stayed at Greenleaf State Park.
Water recreation: Rent kayaks or canoes at facilities near major cabin areas. Lake Tenkiller offers exceptional water clarity, making it popular for boating and fishing. "We had a great spot located 200 yards from the lake. Also had the boat dock just on the other side of us," notes a visitor at Chicken Creek.
Disc golf: Some parks with cabin rentals offer extensive disc golf courses. "They have a cool slide and we had a blast," mentions a visitor about the recreational options at Greenleaf State Park.
What campers like
Splash pad access: Several cabin rental locations provide water features for summer visitors. "The absolute best part of this park is the splash pad. It was the best splash pad we've been too," notes a camper who stayed at Greenleaf State Park Campground.
Privacy options: Certain cabin locations offer more seclusion than others. "Our site was adequate with a picnic table, water, & electric hookups," comments one visitor about their Greenleaf experience, though they noted electrical issues in their tent area.
Off-season tranquility: Fall and winter cabin stays provide a different experience with fewer crowds. "If you dig the crowds and the splash park scene and the loud music... hit it in the summer. But if you like it quiet and peaceful check it out in the winter or early spring," advises a camper at Greenleaf State Park.
Fishing proximity: Many cabins sit within walking distance of prime fishing spots. "The fishing form the dock is fruitful. From a boat even better," says a Greenleaf visitor.
What you should know
Bathroom quality varies: While some cabin areas maintain clean facilities, others may need attention. "Vault toilet was buggy enough that the kids wouldn't use it. Our site had good water access," reports a visitor at Chicken Creek.
Seasonal restrictions: Some cabin areas close during winter months or have reduced services. "First-come, First-served October 01, 2021- November 30, 2021," notes a camper regarding access at Sequoyah State Park.
Water connections: Some sites have shared water hookups requiring special equipment. "The only disadvantage to this park is some sites share water. In our site we needed 50 ft of water hose and I would suggest bringing a 'y' water connector," advises a Greenleaf camper.
Site differences: Even within the same campground, cabin quality and amenities can differ significantly. "Would have given 5 stars, but they are limited on sites with 50amps. Showers were in rough shape as well," notes a camper at Chicken Creek.
Tips for camping with families
Book specific cabin areas: Family-friendly sections offer more amenities for children. "Super nice family campground. It's totally worth the visit. It's on the Illinois river and is very well kept. Full hookups. Nice staff. Beautiful," reports a visitor to Marval Camping Resort.
Check entertainment options: Some cabin areas provide more activities than others. "This place has everything, movie theater, horse riding, a train that goes around the park, golf carts, tons of activities for the entire family... Swimming pool and all," explains a Marval Camping Resort guest.
Consider site spacing: Family groups may want more room between cabins. "The sites are close together, it was beyond crowded (my son couldn't even ride his bike because of the constant amount of cars)," warns a Marval visitor during a peak season stay.
Verify pet policies: While many cabins allow pets, rules and fees vary by location. "Would recommend this resort to anyone and everyone!! Activities all weekend and through the week!!" shares an enthusiastic Marval guest.
Tips from RVers
KOA cabin standards: The Sallisaw area KOA offers standardized cabin accommodations with predictable amenities. "Very nice campground, with friendly helpful staff. Fabulous showers," reports a visitor to Sallisaw-Fort Smith West KOA, which provides cabin options alongside RV sites.
Accessibility considerations: Not all cabin areas are equally accessible. "This campground is nice but not really wheelchair friendly. The road was really large rock that is very bumpy and uncomfortable to wheel over," notes a KOA visitor.
Off-season booking: Winter cabin reservations may offer better rates and availability. "Heading West on I-40 and tried, without success, to get a site at one of the 3 campgrounds on nearby Robert Kerr Reservoir. We got the last site at the KOA," shares a traveler, highlighting the importance of advance planning.
Connection options: Some cabin locations provide better connectivity than others. "Conveniently located near a large town in Arkansas for supplies and good cell signal," notes a visitor to the region.
