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Established Camping

Winding Stair Campground (Ok) — Ouachita National Forest

Winding Stair Campground, near Hodgen, Oklahoma, is a peaceful retreat tucked away in the Ouachita National Forest. This campground is perfect for those who enjoy tent or RV camping without the fuss of electric hookups, making it a great choice for a true back-to-nature experience.

The sites here are spacious and come equipped with fire rings and picnic tables, ideal for evening gatherings under the stars. Visitors have noted the stunning views and the well-kept grounds, with one camper mentioning, “The campground is a series of pull-ins and thru sites which vary in size,” accommodating everything from tents to larger rigs.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the area offers access to scenic trails, including the Ouachita National Recreation Trail, which is a hit among hikers. Reviewers have praised the breathtaking scenery, with one stating, “Driving from Mena to Talihina along this stretch of highway is a treat when it comes to the spectacular views.”

While amenities are limited—there are no showers or reservable sites—campers appreciate the tranquility and natural beauty that surrounds them. Just remember to bring your own water and firewood, as those aren’t available on-site. Whether you're passing through or planning a longer stay, Winding Stair Campground is a fantastic spot to unwind and soak in the great outdoors.

Description

USDA Forest Service

Ouachita National Forest

Overview

Winding Stair Campground sits along the Talimena Scenic Byway. The mountain-top campground offers scenic views from Emerald Vista located adjacent to the campground. During the Spring and Fall seasons, cool mountain temperatures enhance the camping experience. The campground is open year-round and serves as a trailhead for the Ouachita National Recreation Trail. All RV/Tent campsites in the campground have paved surfaces and gravel tent pads for setting tents up at the site. The Backpackers Camp, located adjacent to the campground offer designated tent pads for tent placement. This location is available on a first-come, first served basis only. Visitors are required to physiclaly arrive at the campground to purchase and claim a site. Once on-site, you can pay for your campsite(s) with cash, check, money order, or by scanning a QR code using the Recreaion.gov mobile app. Please download the Recreation.gov app prior to arrival as some remote areas have limited or no cell service.

Recreation

The Winding Stair Campground is the only campground in Oklahoma along with Talimena Scenic Byway that provides developed campsites. Located along the Ouachita National Recreation Trail (OT), the campground serves as a trailhead for the OT.

Facilities

The Winding Stair Campground is the only campground in Oklahoma along with Talimena Scenic Byway that provides developed campsites. Located along the Ouachita National Recreation Trail (OT), the campground serves as a trailhead for the OT.

Natural Features

Mountain top and valley views can be seen from Emerald Vista located adjacent to the campground. All campsites in the campground are well shaded.

Nearby Attractions

Ouachita National Recreation Trail: https://friendsoftheouachita.org/wp/ Cedar Lake Recreation Area, Campground and Equestrian Camp Talimena Scenic Byway

contact_info

For facility specific information, please call (918) 653-2991.

Charges & Cancellations

Once payment is made on-site, we do not offer refunds or modifications.

Fee Info

Honor box is available for payment. Scan & Pay with credit card or debit card is an option as well.

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Location

Winding Stair Campground (Ok) — Ouachita National Forest is located in Oklahoma

Detail location of campground

Directions

The campground is located on the Talimena Scenic Drive (Oklahoma State Highway 1), two miles west of US Highway 259 junction.

Address

Winding Stair CampgroundHwy 1, Talimena Scenic Byway
Hodgen, OK 74939

Coordinates

34.7144611 N
94.6750917 W

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Features

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  • Pets
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  • Water Hookups


Reviews

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10 Reviews

Reviewed Feb. 13, 2024

I did not stay here, just passing through.

I did not stay at this campground (I was driving the scenic byway), but I stopped for "scouting purposes". It seems very nice, the vault toilet was locked? But otherwise, a well kept dry campground with many sites and good views. Also, the pricing on here is incorrect; USFS website says $8/night for singles, $14/night for doubles (can't beat those prices honestly). Will stay if I pass this way again!

Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of Winding Stair Campground (Ok) — Ouachita National Forest by Jon D., February 13, 2024
  • Review photo of Winding Stair Campground (Ok) — Ouachita National Forest by Jon D., February 13, 2024
Reviewed Oct. 29, 2022

Super safe and beautiful

The site felt really safe for me as a first time solo camper, and the scenery was beautiful. Really clean trash and litter wise, but dang…those bathrooms 😬 Still, it was a really great experience and an absolutely gorgeous setting!

Site#9
Month of VisitOctober
Reviewed Jun. 12, 2021

Decent place for people set up to dry camp

The campground is very peaceful, only two other campers On a Thursday in the middle of June. There used to be places to get water but they are turned offIt really looks like there is very little maintenance. There are pit toilets But that is it. It is a very peaceful place but lacking in amenities

Site16
Month of VisitJune
Reviewed May. 30, 2021

Views for days!!

Driving from Mena to Talihina along this stretch of highway is a treat when it comes to the spectacular views.   But stopping at places like this campground even further explain just how much of an amazing place this part of Oklahoma really is!   This area was once logged to the point that it was basically worthless before the Forest Service took it over and started to replenish the land and create public spaces like this campground.    It now is a thriving place for recreation and viewing.

The campground is a series of pull ins and thru sites which vary in size allowing for tent camping with single cars or even some larger rigs.    There are vault toilets centrally located at the entrance in addition to extra picnic tables for those wanting a little extra space to enjoy.    

A few spigots are around camp that are not in the best of shape, but they do still work, so don't be fooled.

The roadways through camp and the sites themselves are very well taken care of, however because of recent rains the grass was a bit more wooly than it typically would have been.   Despite this the sites were still clear of grass for the most part.  

Each site was equipped with picnic tables, fire rings, lantern hooks, grills and prep stations and large spaces for tents, should you have one.  Additionally you can find trash cans around camp in a few places.

From the campground you can easily access the scenic point which additionally has more picnic tables with a view, definitely suggest checking it out!!  

Campground is first come first serve and does have a senior discount with the park pass.   Envelopes are provided at the main kiosk.

  • Review photo of Winding Stair Campground (Ok) — Ouachita National Forest by Crystal C., May 30, 2021
  • Review photo of Winding Stair Campground (Ok) — Ouachita National Forest by Crystal C., May 30, 2021
  • Review photo of Winding Stair Campground (Ok) — Ouachita National Forest by Crystal C., May 30, 2021
  • (12) View All
Reviewed Mar. 3, 2021

Tucked up in the mountains

If you plopped me into this camp I wouldn’t have guessed I was in Oklahoma.

Just a bit off the beautiful Talimena Drive, it is well shaded, close to spectacular overlooks and lots of hiking options around.

Ouachita Trail access and other options available.

23 sites to pick from and there are a variety to choose from. Some pull-through, some smaller. All appeared to have tables and grills.

Neatly kept and peaceful.

I had Verizon service, but bring what you need - it’s a long way to town.

It had bear caution signs, so be advised.

  • Review photo of Winding Stair Campground (Ok) — Ouachita National Forest by Neil T., March 3, 2021
  • Review photo of Winding Stair Campground (Ok) — Ouachita National Forest by Neil T., March 3, 2021
  • Review photo of Winding Stair Campground (Ok) — Ouachita National Forest by Neil T., March 3, 2021
  • (14) View All
Reviewed Oct. 27, 2020

Excellent Camping

Of the 23 campsites, we choose #1. A single campsite that we doubled up in. One of our group of 4 arrived early last Friday morning and our campers all were there by 5pm. We had enough room four 3 vehicles and one trailer. It was pretty foggy for the entire trip so I am sure that the Emerald Vista view would have offered a bit of wow, but nevertheless we found time to enjoy our company.

On Saturday we found ourselves on the 2.5 mile Mountain Trail Loop. The beautiful hike heads out of the camp, around the mountain to a rocky vista which probably has a cool view (again...foggy) and then back on the opposite side of the highway (which is almost always in earshot from the trail but not intrusive) to the campsite. From both the turnback point, and the beginning of the trail are opportunities to hope on the much larger Ouachita Trail. 

Back to the campsite. A circular campsite with 2 human dropping stations. I didn't see any water, but we never looked. Almost every type of camper type was there, from RVs down to single tents. The high temp for the weekend was about 56 and the place was packed solid. 

Payment is via a pay station as you come in. The ranger will come around in the morning some time and check your stubs. We paid $8 per night for a single camp site.

Site1
Month of VisitOctober
  • Review photo of Winding Stair Campground (Ok) — Ouachita National Forest by Jesse H., October 27, 2020
  • Review photo of Winding Stair Campground (Ok) — Ouachita National Forest by Jesse H., October 27, 2020
Reviewed Oct. 3, 2020

One of the best in Oklahoma

A great campsite, one of the best in Oklahoma in fact. some sites are large enough for small trailers. But with no electric or water hookups at the sites (there is community water) they are limited to “the right folks ;)” Tent camping is fantastic too of course. Even better. It’s a no reservations campground which is nice but be prepared to dispersed camp in the National Forest if needed on popular weekends. The fall color is stunning. Campfire rings, grills and tables at each campsite. Standard NFS fair.

The trails are what really shines here. The Ouachita National Recreation Trail passes by the camp and ties you into hundreds of miles of adventure.

During the summer the trail can be a little hard to follow. Fall too if the leaf fall is heavy. But watch for blue blazes on the trees and you are good. A great set of volunteers keep this trail system in great shape!

If interested in the entire trail, Ike even just an overnight there is a great guidebook out there by Tim Ernst. Super details with great mileage records and maps.

Lots of 4wd fun around too if you look in the right place!

This is a hands down favorite in the late spring and mid fall. Check it out for sure!

  • Review photo of Winding Stair Campground (Ok) — Ouachita National Forest by ShaneB , October 3, 2020
  • Review photo of Winding Stair Campground (Ok) — Ouachita National Forest by ShaneB , October 3, 2020
  • Review photo of Winding Stair Campground (Ok) — Ouachita National Forest by ShaneB , October 3, 2020
  • (12) View All
Reviewed May. 16, 2019

INCREDIBLE

A must visit! Stunning views of pines and mountains. No reservations, fire rings and picnic tables on every site. A couple trails within walking distance. No firewood or ice available to purchase on site.

Reviewed Sep. 17, 2016

Winding Stair Backpacking

My boyfriend and I took our first backpacking trip in the Ouachitas, and stayed at this campground. We absolutely LOVED it. The views are spectacular, lots of wildlife, all the wildflowers were blooming, and it was so quiet. The stars were amazing. No complaints, would do it all over again if we still lived there.

Just make sure if you do go camping, get out on some trails. You won't regret it.

  • Review photo of Winding Stair Campground (Ok) — Ouachita National Forest by Katie K., September 17, 2016
  • Review photo of Winding Stair Campground (Ok) — Ouachita National Forest by Katie K., September 17, 2016
  • Review photo of Winding Stair Campground (Ok) — Ouachita National Forest by Katie K., September 17, 2016
  • (7) View All
Reviewed Jun. 24, 2016

Really Great Campground

This is a beautiful place to camp along the Talimena drive. You are up on top of the Ouachita Mountains and there are beautiful views. This campground was very quiet when we stayed, not a lot of people were here. There is a restroom at this campground. Lots of great hiking nearby.

  • Review photo of Winding Stair Campground (Ok) — Ouachita National Forest by Kelly Z., June 24, 2016
  • Review photo of Winding Stair Campground (Ok) — Ouachita National Forest by Kelly Z., June 24, 2016

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Does Winding Stair Campground (Ok) — Ouachita National Forest have RV hookups?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Winding Stair Campground (Ok) — Ouachita National Forest has water hookups.

  • Are fires allowed at Winding Stair Campground (Ok) — Ouachita National Forest?

    Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Winding Stair Campground (Ok) — Ouachita National Forest, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.

  • How hard is it to get a campsite at Winding Stair Campground (Ok) — Ouachita National Forest?

    Some campers book as far as 6 months in advance, so on high-demand weekends it can be very difficult to get a campsite at Winding Stair Campground (Ok) — Ouachita National Forest. If you want to get a last-minute campsite at Winding Stair Campground (Ok) — Ouachita National Forest, try setting up a text message Alert atTheDyrt.com/alerts

  • Why is it so hard to get a campsite at Winding Stair Campground (Ok) — Ouachita National Forest?

    There are 25 campsites at Winding Stair Campground (Ok) — Ouachita National Forest and over 80 million Americans who camp! Try snagging a cancellation by setting up a text message Alert atTheDyrt.com/alerts