Campgrounds near Wagoner, Oklahoma offer a mix of lakeside sites and recreational facilities within a 25-mile radius. The area features rolling terrain with elevations ranging from 550 to 700 feet and experiences humid subtropical climate with hot summers averaging 91°F and mild winters around 49°F. Several campgrounds provide electric hookups with 30-50 amp service, though water connections can be limited at certain locations.
What to do
Fishing and boating access: Taylor Ferry Campground offers direct lake access with a rock peer for fishing. "We caught some catfish right off the rock peer. It is close to Hwy 51 but you really can't tell," notes Elizabeth B., who adds that "Bait and a Dollar General were right down the road."
Scuba diving opportunities: Chicken Creek Campground provides access to Lake Tenkiller, known for underwater exploration. One visitor explains, "Lake Tenkiller is an amazing location to scuba dive. It's waters are clear and cool from a distance of 8 to 28 feet. A diver will have the opportunity to investigate a sunken airplane fuselage, school bus, helicopter and two boats."
Wildlife exploration: Within a 35-minute drive, Hawthorn Bluff offers nature observation opportunities. "I saw some old oyster mushrooms all over the place possibly some lions mane," reports Elizabeth B. The site provides access to lakeshores and hiking trails with seasonal wildlife viewing.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently rate the washrooms at Sallisaw-Fort Smith West KOA highly. One camper called them the "best showers ever for a campground!" while another noted, "Restrooms clean and nice showers. The staff was kind, cheerful and very helpful."
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer room to spread out. At Blue Creek, "Many sites had a covered concrete pad with a large concrete picnic table, utility table, and lantern hook." Another visitor mentioned, "Our spot had a covered picnic table, grill and fire ring."
Recreational amenities: Beyond basic camping, facilities often include organized activity areas. "Aside from fishing and boating, there are many activities you can enjoy here including volleyball, horseshoes, bean bag toss, and basketball. When the gate attendant is there, you can check out supplies for these activities," notes a Blue Creek visitor.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Many campgrounds operate from April through September or October. "Peak Season April 01, 2021- September 30, 2021. First-come, First-served October 01, 2021- November 30, 2021," explains a Chicken Creek camper.
Gate restrictions: Security measures may limit after-hours access. "Gates going in locked at 10:00 p.m. and open at 6:00 a.m.," reports Mark J. about Chicken Creek. The campground schedule follows "Check-out time: 3:00 pm. Check-in time: 6:00 pm. Quiet hours: 10:00 pm- 6:00 am."
Water level changes: Seasonal and maintenance-related water fluctuations can affect recreation. "The only thing is we were told that the lake would be low for the next two years for reconstruction of the dam. Because of the low water you can walk very far into the water from where we we're staying," mentions Elizabeth B. about Taylor Ferry.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Tulsa NE-Will Rogers Downs KOA offers structured activities for children. "Lots to do here at this conveniently located spot. Basketball hoop, pool and hot tub, pond with kayaks, and more," says Ben P., making it suitable for families seeking entertainment options.
Swimming opportunities: Multiple locations feature designated swimming areas. "The swim beach was well kept and easily accessible with free life jacket loaners," notes Stephen R. about Hawthorn Bluff, providing safer water recreation for families with young children.
Educational experiences: The area offers learning opportunities alongside camping. "There's lots of animals to pet and lots of history to learn. You can tour the birthplace for free, there's an old barn to explore," says Jennifer D. about Dog Iron Ranch & Will Rogers Birthplace, which offers camping with historical context.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Some sites require extra effort to position RVs properly. "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," shares Ron K. about Hawthorn Bluff's site #31.
Hookup limitations: Water connections aren't universally available. "The site did not have a dedicated water hook up. We had to buy a 75' hose to put water in our fresh tank," notes an RV camper at Hawthorn Bluff. Similarly, "Taylor Ferry Campground is great except no sewer connections," reports Royce A.
Dump station availability: Waste disposal facilities may not be accessible year-round. "There was a dump station, but it was coned off when we were there," reports a Blue Creek visitor, highlighting the importance of checking current amenity status before arrival.
