Camping near Wewoka, Oklahoma centers around smaller regional lakes in a gently rolling landscape at approximately 850 feet elevation. The area experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F, while fall camping brings more moderate temperatures and fewer crowds. Most campgrounds maintain natural buffer zones between sites, providing moderate privacy compared to more developed camping areas.
What to do
Kayaking without motors: Sportsmans Lake restricts motorized watercraft, creating ideal conditions for paddling. "It's a good lake for kayaking, fishing and swimming. It has become popular for kayaking," notes a visitor to Sportsmans Lake. The spring-fed waters keep swimming comfortable even during hot summer days.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings offer excellent opportunities to observe the resident geese colony. "There are many geese on this lake, they have there own island where they hatch their babies every year. Lots of raccoons and a couple foxes," reports one camper about the wildlife at Sportsmans Lake. Listen for owls and coyotes after dark.
Hiking local trails: The area around Holdenville Lake has improved with added hiking opportunities. "This lake has came a long ways from how it use to be. It is a pretty good lake now," mentions a recent visitor. The natural setting provides short hiking routes through mixed hardwood forests.
Horseback riding: Equestrian trails around Sportsmans Lake cost $3 daily or $30 yearly for access. The network connects multiple camping areas with designated equestrian campsites located in separate coves from RV camping.
What campers like
Clean facilities: The Sycamore Glampground receives positive feedback for its maintained grounds. "Each tent offers a queen air bed, an AC, books, and a charcoal grill. Hangout by the campfire, lay in a hammock," notes a visitor describing the amenities that enhance comfort during hot weather.
Accessible campsites: Proximity to water ranks high among camper preferences. "We stayed in RV spot A3 and had friends staying in A1 and A2. The lake was very calm Saturday morning. It was a great place to relax," shares a camper at Okemah Lake.
Fishing access: Multiple lakes offer varied fishing experiences with different regulations. "Nice small lake. Older bathrooms but kept clean. Lots of fishing boat traffic," reports a visitor to Sportsmans Lake, highlighting the active fishing community.
Quiet atmosphere: Outside holiday weekends, many campgrounds maintain peaceful environments. "This campground was very quiet and beautiful. The grounds are neat and well cared for," notes a camper about Sportsmans Lake, contrasting with busier periods at larger lakes.
What you should know
Boat fees and regulations: Watercraft incur daily fees at most lakes. "The boat ramp fee is $5 a day for each kayak. We never used the boat ramp but still had to pay $45 (3 kayaks for 3 days)," explains a visitor to Okemah Lake. Check with rangers about payment requirements even if you don't use launch facilities.
Gate restrictions: Late arrivals face limited options at Sportsmans Lake. "Don't arrive after 10pm as you can then only access cove 2 and cove 4. You can camp late hours in those areas, but the population in this area is very active at 2am and it just isn't comfortable," warns a camper at Sportsmans Lake.
Shower conditions: Many campgrounds offer basic shower facilities with limitations. "Restrooms need some work and only cold water available for showers," reports a camper at Sportsmans Lake. Pack shower supplies accordingly.
Supply proximity: Most campgrounds require short drives for groceries or supplies. "Atmosphere of being far away from town but 10 minutes get you to groceries," explains a visitor about Sportsmans Lake's convenient location.
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Wewoka Lake provides play facilities for children. "It has a decent little playground and a swimming area, course you can swim around your campsite as well," notes a visitor, making it suitable for families with young children.
Kid-friendly ranger interactions: Staff often engage positively with children at Sportsmans Lake. "The park ranger stopped and played with my children telling them about the geese and where good fishing spots were," shares a family camper, highlighting educational opportunities during stays.
Swimming safety: Designated swimming areas offer safer options than shoreline swimming. "It has a nice swimming area and even on the hottest days the water feels good because it is a sping fed lake," explains a visitor to Sportsmans Lake.
Pavilion reservations: For family gatherings, covered areas can be reserved. Sportsmans Lake offers pavilion rentals at $25 with a $10 deposit, providing shade during summer heat and space for larger family activities.
Tips from RVers
Campsite selection: Catfish Round-Up RV Park offers convenient overnight options with full hookups. "We are in a 33 ft class pulling a Jeep Wrangler, and we did not unhook the Jeep," explains one RVer about the easy access.
Restaurant proximity: On-site dining options reduce cooking needs. "Went over to the resturant for dinner and we enjoyed our meal, but the service was GREAT. They came around with apple fritters while we were looking at the menu," reports a camper at Catfish Round-Up RV Park.
Hookup availability: Sportsmans Lake provides various hookup options. "There are about 10 reservable sites with full hookups. Several sites with water and electric. Most pads are short," reports a visitor, noting the size limitations for larger rigs.
Senior discounts: Campers 65 and older receive reduced rates at Sportsmans Lake, with water and electric sites at $12 instead of $15, and full-hookup sites at $17 instead of $20.
