Tulsa's camping options sit at the junction of eastern Oklahoma's hardwood forests and western prairie grasslands, with elevations ranging from 600 to 900 feet above sea level. The region experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and mild winters that rarely dip below freezing for extended periods. Most campgrounds remain open year-round, though amenities like water hookups may be limited during winter months.
What to do
Fishing at Lake Sahoma: Most campers visit for the fishing opportunities, with multiple docks and shoreline access points. "Clean and beautiful lake. I take my kids there every summer for camping and fishing," notes Jose A. The lake requires specific fishing licenses depending on your location. "They do drive by and check to see if you have a fishing license. There is a area just up the road you can fish with a regular fishing license and be fine," explains Jennifer D. from Lake Sahoma.
Kayaking at Bluff Landing: Located on the Verdigris River just east of Broken Arrow, this campground provides direct river access. "It sits pretty much right on the bank of the Verdigris river. We took our kayaks out to enjoy the beautiful sunset!" writes Rebekah L. from Bluff Landing. The boat ramp is conveniently located within the camp area, with good parking available for vehicles and trailers.
Hiking at Tall Chief Cove: Several trails surround Skiatook Lake with varying difficulties. "There are multiple areas to hike, kayak, fish, or boat in the area. Not too far from Skiatook if you need to head into a town," comments Vance D. from Tall Chief Cove. The cliffs in particular provide scenic viewpoints over the lake, making for good photography opportunities during sunrise or sunset.
What campers like
Security features at event-focused sites: Campgrounds near event venues prioritize security. "Private bathrooms and showers were clean with code entry. Laundromat was functional and centrally located," reports Lori C. from Expo Square RV Park. This security becomes particularly valuable during busy event weekends when the campground fills with visitors.
Spacious sites at former mobile home parks: Several Tulsa-area RV parks were converted from mobile home communities. "The RV sites are spacious as they are former mobile home sites converted to RV parking. Mostly back in but with the size of the lots it isn't difficult," explains Richard G. from Cherry Hill Mobile Home & RV Park. These larger sites provide more distance between neighbors than typical RV parks.
Access to recreation facilities: Some campgrounds offer bonus recreation options beyond standard camping. "Access to the Expo rec center is nice and our kids had a lot of fun in the pool. They really enjoyed the climbing wall and diving board!" shares Lisa H. about Claremore Expo RV Park. The proximity to these additional facilities creates value for families seeking more structured activities.
What you should know
Road noise affects many locations: The proximity to highways impacts the camping experience at several sites. "There is a lot to do nearby. But the campground is smaller with a single loop and is most ideal for RVs and boaters. It doesn't offer much privacy from each other," notes Tom K. about Tall Chief Cove. Highway proximity ranges from minor background noise to significant disturbances at certain sites.
Limited tent camping options: Most facilities primarily accommodate RVs with few designated tent areas. "This is a great place for RVs but it's not for camping. People stay here when there are events in town at the expo center such as huge horse shows, gun shows, the fair etc.," explains Jennifer D. about Expo Square RV Park. Tent campers should specifically confirm tent accommodations before booking.
Security concerns at some locations: Campers report varying experiences with security. "Pretty sure the people who tend to this are thieves. My family's camper was broken into and our truck was stolen from this place," warns Bianca B. about Bluff Landing. Always secure valuables and research recent reviews about security conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Safety features near water: Campgrounds with water access have varying safety provisions. "The swim beach was well kept and easily accessible with free life jacket loaners," notes Stephen R. about Hawthorn Bluff. However, some lakeside sites present hazards: "Lake side spots are not advisable if you have little ones, the bluffs are very close to the fire pits and have about a 30ft drop."
Wildlife awareness: Multiple campgrounds report regular wildlife encounters. "Wildlife has also been a problem here as far as raccoons and skunks go," warns Matt B. about Hawthorn Bluff. At Lake Sahoma, campers note wildlife is particularly active at dawn and dusk. Secure food in containers and teach children proper wildlife observation distances.
Advanced reservations for pet-friendly camping near Tulsa: Popular sites fill quickly, especially waterfront locations. "Reservations only so be sure to plan ahead. The best sites need to be reserved as many as 6 months in advance," advises Randy S. about Tall Chief Cove. Holiday weekends and summer months experience highest demand for pet-friendly camping areas around Tulsa.
Tips from RVers
Hookup limitations: Water connections vary significantly between campgrounds. "The site did not have a dedicated water hook up. We had to buy a 75' hose to put water in our fresh tank," shares Ron K. about Hawthorn Bluff. At Warrior Campground, full hookups are standard but "No cable TV. Staff was very courteous and helpful."
Leveling challenges: Terrain at lakeside campgrounds often creates leveling issues. "The site was slanted so much that we could not get level front to back. We moved a couple of times and tried all combination of stacking lumber under the tongue jack but still had to sleep with our heads at the foot end of our bed," notes Ron K. about his experience at Hawthorn Bluff. Bring extra leveling blocks when camping at sites near water.
Event-focused RV parks: Several pet-accommodating camping options near Tulsa serve primarily as event housing rather than vacation destinations. "It's concrete, some grass and trees and is what it's meant for, a place to stay overnight and do your business at the fair grounds," explains Faustina B. about Warrior Campground. These locations prioritize functionality over atmosphere but offer convenient access to Tulsa attractions.
