Dispersed camping near Tenkiller Ferry Lake offers opportunities in a region characterized by oak-hickory forests and limestone bluffs. The area sits at approximately 650 feet elevation with numerous coves and inlets along the 130-mile shoreline. Seasonal water level fluctuations can affect camping locations, particularly during spring when levels typically rise 10-15 feet above winter pool.
What to do
Fishing access points: Dam Site Campground at Fort Gibson provides easy lake access where anglers can catch various species. "The dam site at Ft. Gibson lake is a great place. You can go to the dam and fish for all kinds of fish, hike in the woods, swim up at the lake, or put your boat in for a cruise," notes Michele E.
Bike trail exploration: The trail systems near Lookout Tower Road offer varied terrain for cyclists. Bud D. confirms "Bike trails are worth using" and mentions the area has "cell signal was strong in many places."
Water recreation: The east side of Fort Gibson Lake contains spring-fed creeks that remain clearer than other areas. David M. explains, "Fort Gibson Lake is a flood control lake so the water levels can fluctuate. The east side of the lake is spring fed creeks and therefore cleaner and clearer."
What campers like
Privacy and space: Dispersed sites typically offer more seclusion than developed campgrounds. At Lee Creek Off Road Site, Kurt G. describes it as "a good public land spot with just enough space for two car campers" and notes it's "right off the main road (you can still hear the traffic, but it's not a lot of traffic)."
Night sky viewing: The area around Devils Den offers excellent stargazing opportunities with limited light pollution. Michelle T. from Dispersed Near Devils Den shares it was "a sweet little private getaway for a night before driving on."
Campground hosts: The staff at developed sites provide assistance with local information and supplies. At Dam Site Campground, Chad K. mentions "the camp host helped us out with firewood" despite noting that "the sites are packed together and leave little privacy."
What you should know
Road access conditions: Some dispersed sites have challenging access roads. Lauren from Dispersed Near Devils Den warns about driving conditions: "It is a very narrow road but my minivan got through just fine. UNTIL I made it to a puddle of water (that I highly underestimated), got stuck in the mud immediately and had to call a tow company."
Cell coverage: Connectivity varies by location and carrier. At Lookout Tower Road, Michelle T. reports "Starlink didn't work but Verizon did for phone calls only," which can be important for emergency communications.
Trash management: Pack-out policies apply at all dispersed sites. Mack Daddy Van L. noted about Dispersed Near Devils Den that it "would've been a nearly perfect campsite. Had it not been for all the trash left by others."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with amenities: For families with younger children, developed campgrounds offer more conveniences. At Dam Site Campground at Fort Gibson, Michele E. mentions "The site hosts are great and very friendly. Lots of sites and lots of trees for shade."
Plan for limited facilities: Most dispersed sites lack restrooms or water sources. Near Devils Den, Lauren notes you might need to "park on the turnout by the highway and walk in" as forest service restrictions may apply to vehicle access.
Activity planning: Bring entertainment options as amenities are limited. One camper at Dispersed Near Devils Den mentioned "Nice walk trails along the water. Local stop in for swimming and fishing," indicating natural features can provide recreation.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Many dispersed camping areas have limited access for larger rigs. Chad C. at Lookout Tower Road managed to "get our 40 foot Bluebird Bus up here" but described it as just "nice spot well ish maintained," suggesting it may not be ideal for all large vehicles.
Limited hookups: Prepare for self-contained camping at dispersed sites. While developed sites like Fort Gibson offer more amenities, water level fluctuations can affect services. David M. notes "Specifically the waters can rise to where boating ramps are not available. 2020 has been a good year (without excessive rain) and everything was open for the summer season."
Site selection: Arrive early to secure suitable spots for larger vehicles. Kurt G. from Lee Creek Off Road Site cautions "I don't think a bus would fit but my 21ft. van was mostly a tight fit," highlighting the importance of knowing your vehicle dimensions when selecting dispersed camping locations.
