Tenkiller Ferry Lake spans approximately 12,900 acres in northeastern Oklahoma with 130 miles of shoreline at an elevation of about 632 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 90°F while dropping to the 50s during fall camping season. The lake's water visibility extends up to 28 feet in some areas, making it particularly popular with scuba divers who can explore submerged structures while staying at upscale tent sites and rustic cabins.
What to do
Disc golf adventures: Natural Falls State Park Campground has an extensive 18-hole course that winds through the park. "Loved the falls, big campsites, hiking trails and 18 hole disc golf," reports christy W., who found the activity perfectly complemented a day of hiking.
Trout fishing: For anglers seeking year-round fishing opportunities, Chicken Creek offers access to one of Oklahoma's only two year-round trout fisheries. "We've stayed here multiple times and love it. Beautiful place," notes Justin A., highlighting the area's reputation for consistent catches.
Water sports: Sequoyah State Park - Marina and Cabins provides boat rentals and launch facilities for visitors without their own watercraft. "Great place to fish and do all kinds of water sports," mentions Bianca B., who appreciated the multiple access points to the water.
Wildlife photography: The lake's position as a migratory flyway creates opportunities for photography enthusiasts. Early mornings at Wahoo Bay offer chances to spot bald eagles, white pelicans, and deer. "I can see the stars and the moon while hearing deer run through the woods, birds splashing in the water and coyotes howling," writes Tim O. about the natural setting.
What campers like
All-season accessibility: Greenleaf State Park Campground remains open year-round with varying crowd levels. "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 ShaneB, highlighting the park's seasonal flexibility.
Affordable options: Wahoo Bay offers budget-friendly camping with waterfront views. "12 miles/20 minutes to town for gas, groceries, laundry, etc. Minimal traffic mid-January, mostly boats and fishermen. Vault toilet is clean and water spigots are available and turned on. $10/night," reports Tim O.
Hot showers: While seeking glamping close to Tenkiller Ferry Lake, clean facilities matter. "Fabulous showers," notes Lynda K. about Sallisaw-Fort Smith West KOA, adding they were "the best showers ever for a campground!"
Family amenities: For those traveling with children, Marval Camping Resort delivers entertainment options. "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 Candy U., who visits frequently with her family.
What you should know
Crowding concerns: During peak season, campgrounds can become congested. "The sites are close together, it was beyond crowded (my son couldn't even ride his bike because of the constant amount of cars)," reports Brittany J. about Marval Camping Resort, recommending weekday visits for more space.
Water levels fluctuate: River conditions change throughout the season. At Eagle Bluff Resort, Ava G. notes, "When I went, the river got a bit too low in places to float so make sure someone in your party is prepared to haul your raft, beer, sunscreen, etc."
Reservation limitations: Not all sites accept advance bookings. "First-come, First-served October 01, 2021-November 30, 2021," mentions N I. about Chicken Creek's seasonal reservation system, with peak season requiring planning ahead.
Off-season closures: Some facilities shut down seasonally. "The showers were in rough shape as well," notes Todd R. about facilities at Chicken Creek, where maintenance may decrease outside summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Splash pad access: Marval Camping Resort offers water play areas perfect for children during hot summer days. "Lots to keep the kids busy, we had a really good time," says Shelia M., though she cautions that "campsites are pretty close together."
Playground options: Multiple campgrounds offer play equipment. "We had a great time tent camping here on Labor Day Weekend. Beautiful park with grassy tent sites. Nice hiking trail... The absolute best part of this park is the splash pad," shares Richard about Greenleaf State Park.
Weekend timing: For a quieter family experience with less party atmosphere, schedule visits midweek. "If you want to take your family or scout troop, do it on a weekday," advises Mandy K. about Eagle Bluff Resort, noting weekends can be considerably more crowded and rowdy.
Accessibility considerations: Natural Falls State Park Campground offers facilities for mobility-challenged visitors. "You can take your wheelchair on some of the trails and look at the Falls. There's a steep hike down to the falls for those who can walk it. The road is paved and each site has cement pad," explains Cheryl T., noting discounts for disabled campers.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Greenleaf State Park, campers report significant differences between camping areas. "The RV FHU sites in the Deer Run campground are on top of one another. We had a neighbor's picnic table maybe a foot or two at best from the slide out side window," warns Gonzo A.
Electric service types: Different campgrounds offer varying electrical service. "Only seven 50 amp spots and no sewer sites but the campground is great," notes Mark J. about Chicken Creek, highlighting the limited number of higher-powered electrical sites.
Water hookup preparation: Some sites require additional equipment. "In our site we needed 50 ft of water hose and I would suggest bringing a 'y' water connector," advises Kassi S. about Greenleaf State Park, noting shared water connections at some sites.
Level sites: For easy setup, Sallisaw-Fort Smith West KOA offers well-maintained spaces. "Great gravel and concrete pads. Areas for the dogs some pads and a common area for dogs," reports Tom S. about the level surfaces that simplify RV setup.