Best Dispersed Camping in Oklahoma

There’s a reason Oklahomans are more likely to camp than the average American: Home to the country’s most diverse terrain mile-for-mile, Oklahoma comprises more than just the Great Plains. Camping in Oklahoma’s 10 distinct ecoregions–claiming four mountain ranges, sprawling forests, balmy swamps, 28 state parks, and more dam-created lakes than any other state—gives you access to more varied recreation opportunities within a short drive than you’ll find almost anywhere else.

You can’t go camping in Oklahoma without visiting Lake Texoma, the 12th-largest lake in the US. Spanning the southern Texas-Oklahoma border (hence the name), the biggest of the Sooner State’s 200-plus lakes provides more than 90,000 surface acres of water primed for sailing, kayaking, jet skiing, and especially fishing: Lake Texoma claims more than 70 species of fish, including Striped Bass impressive enough to make it the Striper Capital of the World. Make sure to pick up a fishing license!

Out of the water, Lake Texoma campers can observe migratory birds and wild hogs in two wildlife preserves, lead horses through 25 miles of equestrian trails, hike 14 miles along lakeside bluffs, and retire to one of more than 700 campsites. Plenty of showers, toilets, potable water points, and RV hookups mean campers have the option to sleep rugged or glamp easy.

When you’ve had your fill of sand and surf, travel to the opposite end of the state for Alabaster Caverns State Park. When an inland sea evaporated millions of years ago, it left behind a real gem: gypsum deposits that developed into some of the world’s largest crystal caves open to tours and wild caving. The biggest highlights of Alabaster Caverns State Park are a three-quarter-mile, 50-foot-tall main cavern, natural bridges, five species of bats, RV camping right near the caves, and best of all, the opportunity to camp in a cavern with a waterfall. For $40, you can rent the Water Cavern, which includes raised sleeping platforms and the option to sleep outside if need be.

Give everyone in your party easy access to the recreation of their choice by camping in Oklahoma only an hour or two from state capitol. Oklahoma City is smack-dab in the center of Oklahoma, making it easy to get a dose of nature without straying too far from nightlife in the state’s biggest metro area. Hike to 2,500 feet and rock climb routes in the storied Wichita Mountains, then explore all 12,500 acres of Lake Murray State Park—the state’s oldest and biggest state park.

Use The Dyrt, and finding all the best sites for adventuring and camping in Oklahoma will be a breeze.

Best Dispersed Sites in Oklahoma (18)

    1. Felt Picnic Area

    11 Reviews
    Clayton, OK
    Website
    +1 (575) 374-9652

    "Plenty of space to turn around and park multiple rigs. It was quiet and felt safe. There are picnic tables, a fire ring, and a pit toilet."

    "We have used this location twice now and we will return. You may stay one night and you will find a pit toilet, trash containers, picnic table, grill, fire ring."

    2. Dead Man Gap Dispersed Campsite

    9 Reviews
    Talihina, OK

    "As you pull off the little turn off just before (or after, depending on which way your going) the bridge of the creek, you’ll find the first spot. It’s nice with an established campfire ring, etc."

    "It also has great spots to see while hiking around. I've been here twice and loved both times."

    3. Blue River Camp

    4 Reviews
    Milburn, OK

    " When I arrived at the location to which my GPS directed me, I was a little concerned that there was just a building with bathrooms and three large dumpsters off to the side."

    "There was so many campsites and they were all well maintained and flat. There is a huge flashing sign going into the area telling every adult to have a fishing/hunting license."

    4. Deadman Gap South Trail Dispersed Campsite

    3 Reviews
    Talihina, OK

    "Private, safe, clean."

    "Small peaceful pond and is right off the Deadman South Trail."

    5. Dam Site Campground at Fort Gibson

    3 Reviews
    Okay, OK
    Website
    +1 (918) 682-4314

    "There is plenty to do around the area, fish, hike and explore. The people are nice and the camp host helped us out with firewood."

    "Gibson lake it a great place. The view is awesome, and there is a lot to do."

    6. Great Plains State Park Dispersed Campsite

    3 Reviews
    Mountain Park, OK

    "Coordinates will get you close to your turn but you have to watch for the sigh (first pic), from there just use your Maps to navigate which route you want to take."

    "This location is an Oklahoma Wildlife Management Area, not Great Plains State Park. These coordinates get you close to the road where the WMA begins. Look for the OK WMA sign and turn."

    7. Talimena Scenic Drive

    2 Reviews
    Big Cedar, OK

    "Hidden gem"

    "This is an awesome place the drive is well worth it too as long as you don’t catch fog like we did you couldn’t see 2ft in front of your car it was crazy how bad it was I hadn’t ever seen anything like"

    8. Ouachita NF - CR 51220 Dispersed

    3 Reviews
    Broken Bow, OK
    Website
    +1 (501) 321-5202

    "Then we found the creek just east of us off a small trail. Just start walking right into the woods and you’ll find it. Many camps here some small some large. Some full sun some full shade!"

    "Adjacent spots probably a mile apart"

    9. Pigeon Creek Dispersed

    3 Reviews
    Big Cedar, OK
    Website
    +1 (580) 494-6402

    "Just on the right is a clearing you can’t miss next to the Kiamichi River along side pigeon creek. You’re surrounded by trees, moss and running blue mountain spring water. What’s not to love?"

    10. Spring Creek Lake Recreation Area Oklahoma - Dispersed Camping

    2 Reviews
    Cheyenne, OK
    Website
    +1 (580) 497-2143

    "A nicely maintained free public camping & recreation area on a small lake in the Black Kettle and McClellan Creek National Grasslands."

    "It is smaller lake, some ducks and geese. Has a few awnings with tables and grills and fire rings. Plenty of wood from the piles surrounding the site. It has a toilet vault. No running water."

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Showing results 1-10 of 18 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews in Oklahoma

34 Reviews of 18 Oklahoma Campgrounds



Guide to Oklahoma

Oklahoma offers a variety of dispersed camping options for those looking to immerse themselves in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. From serene lakesides to secluded forest spots, there's something for every outdoor enthusiast.

Dispersed campers should check out Felt Picnic Area

  • The Felt Picnic Area is a free spot that allows for single-night stays, featuring picnic tables and a vault toilet for convenience.
  • Located about 20 minutes from Clayton, this area is accessible for larger rigs and offers a quiet environment with ample space for parking and turning around.
  • Visitors appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and the absence of light pollution, making it a great place for stargazing.

Activities for dispersed campers at Dead Man Gap Dispersed Campsite

  • The Dead Man Gap Dispersed Campsite is perfect for those seeking solitude, with established fire pits and plenty of space for setting up camp.
  • Adventurers can explore nearby trails and enjoy the beauty of the Ouachita National Forest, with opportunities for hiking and wildlife observation.
  • Campers have noted the importance of practicing Leave No Trace principles to keep this secluded spot pristine for future visitors.

Tips for free and dispersed camping in Oklahoma

  • At Ouachita NF - CR 51220 Dispersed, be prepared for a rugged experience as this area lacks amenities like drinking water and toilets, making it essential to bring your own supplies.
  • The Blue River Camp offers a beautiful setting for fishing and exploring, but be aware that fishing success can vary, so plan accordingly.
  • For those looking for a scenic drive, the Talimena Scenic Drive provides stunning views and access to various dispersed camping spots along the route.