The best river, stream, or creek campgrounds near Pawnee, Oklahoma

In Pawnee, camping by the river gives you over 850 places to pitch your tent, with options starting at $20 and an average night costing $27. You’ll find sites where the water’s close enough to hear at night—like Three Ponds Community (327 reviews), Westmuckett Homestead (191 reviews), and Wild Blue Acres (18 reviews). Most sites let you build a campfire, and you’ll usually have access to toilets and showers. Early mornings are good for wildlife-watching, while afternoons might mean fishing from the bank or heading out on horseback. Bring boots that can handle muddy trails, and keep an eye out for deer at dusk. This is river camping—practical, scenic, and packed with real options.

99% (572)

Top-rated campgrounds

In Pawnee, camping by the river gives you over 850 places to pitch your tent, with options starting at $20 and an average night costing $27. You’ll find sites where the water’s close enough to hear at night—like Three Ponds Community (327 reviews), Westmuckett Homestead (191 reviews), and Wild Blue Acres (18 reviews). Most sites let you build a campfire, and you’ll usually have access to toilets and showers. Early mornings are good for wildlife-watching, while afternoons might mean fishing from the bank or heading out on horseback. Bring boots that can handle muddy trails, and keep an eye out for deer at dusk. This is river camping—practical, scenic, and packed with real options.

99% (572)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Three Ponds Community

98%

(475)

35mi from Pawnee · 8 sites · Tents, Lodging · Sand Springs, OK

Three Ponds Community is a small mindful yoga community of friends. We have two families living on the land with one more in her tiny home. Joe and Hailey also own and manage Be Love Yoga Studio in Tulsa and Jenks and operate the Big Om Yoga Retreat. We tend the garden year round and have a small farm of animals that include goats, chickens, ducks, a pig, and a miniature donkey. We are excited to share our little piece of heaven with you. Nearby (drive time): -Keystone Lake (10 minutes) -Big Al's Convenience Store (5 minutes) -Keystone Ancient Forest (6 minutes) -Downtown Tulsa (25 minutes) -City of Sand Springs (15 minutes) -Osage Forest of Peace (15 minutes) Follow our socials: (@)threepondscommunity on Facebook, Instagram, or Tiktok.

2. Westmuckett Homestead

100%

(248)

15mi from Pawnee · 13 sites · Tents, RVs · Yale, OK

Welcome to our little slice of heaven, 30 acres of natural prairie nestled on the highest point in the county overlooking the surrounding Twin Mounds valley. Like most of us, we were in desperate need of a place to get away from the bustle of daily life, slow down, and decompress, and the land gave us just that! We are so excited to share this place with others who share our passion of the outdoors and feel that breath of the wild. Interestingly, each year we find out more about our home, from its Native American prehistory of being a ceremonial grounds, to its 19th century cival war conflict, and most recently, a lost article published in the 1940s in the local Oklahoman gazette that talks about burried treasure! Our sites offer lots of open space and are private and seculded from each other. We offer maintained camping sites which are closer to the main entrance and are easily accessible with standard vehicles as well as more our more natural habitat spots that are further into the back pasture. We have easy access to two main highways with the nearest Walmart 10 minutes away. Good cell phone coverage for all the main providers at most locations on the property. Learn more about this land: Come get away and enjoy 30 acres of space and solitude. We have beautiful views of the surrounding valley where our sites are secluded and private, it is the perfect place to break away from the daily grind. History surrounds you, located between the "Twin mounds " ( Battle of Round Mountain Nov. 19, 1861) our campsite is the highest elevation in Payne county. Most of the land is rolling natural prairie grasses and evergreen cedars. We are a great location if you enjoy hunkering down for the day or hiking around trails. Each individual site is unique and has plenty of character along with space to play, spread out, and relax. We welcome all pets! Large groups and family outings are also welcome. Our campsite is open through out the year, same day bookings or extended stays-Whatever your schedule we would be happy to have you. See you soon in the great Outdoors! *******[Good cell phone coverage for all the main providers at most locations on the property. For roadtrippers passing through Oklahoma we offer easy access to main state highways and plenty of secure places to park and sleep for the night. Access to I -35 (30 mins), access to I-40 (60 mins). Fishing and Lakes near by. We are located between Tulsa and Stillwater on Highway 51]

3. Wild Blue Acres

100%

(22)

22mi from Pawnee · 3 sites · Tents · Terlton, OK

Wake up to the roosters crowing and be greeted by the guineas. We have a couple of primitive camping sites to choose from. No utilities or hooks ups provided. We have 30 acres to hike and explore, a small pond you can fish or paddle in. Trees to hang your hammock for that summer time siesta. Check out our Facebook page Wild Blue Acres for pictures and updates.Learn more about this land:Wake up to the roosters crowing and be greeted by Tom Tom the turkey. No utilities or hooks ups provided. We have 30 acres to hike and explore, a small pond you can fish or paddle in. Trees to hang your hammock for that summer time siesta. Check out our Facebook page Wild Blue Acres for pictures and updates.

4. Iconium Farms

38mi from Pawnee · 15 sites · Tents, RVs · Langston, OK

Said of Iconium Farms from a guest through Boondockers RV and Harvest Host: “If you are looking for a pristine, natural setting for a peaceful evening, consider making the trek along the brilliant, red dirt roads and relax here. The music of dozens of birds sound like a choir and serenaded the morning and evening air. The sunset was a kaleidoscope of color, popping with magenta, ochers, and tangerine hues which later welcomed a brilliant lightning storm, illuminating the OK skies with spider lightning! Just gorgeous. If you are lucky, you will meet the irresistable landowner, a unique, creative individual who is happy to tell you the history of the land and his ambitious vision for the future. Brush up on your animal footprints. There are a lot to discover!” - Glenn H (cubbyvanlife) 1889 LandRun Legacy new venture in development. Lovely trails through wooded forests with dry creeks, gullies, and intermittent creeks fed by 1500 acres starting south about 2 miles. Tall red dirt walls along ravines that wind dramatically in southern portion of property. Creeks have water and fish, yet small perch with slow cascading waterfalls when rains have come. Areas to camp near creek. Big 10 acres field good for flying kites. Eastern Redcedar groves untouched for ages. Lots of no impact camping spots. Our Farm is in it’s start up year and we have and work hard. Some find it fun to watch and learn about sustainable growing. This will be developed further into glamping destination with disc golf course starting in a couple of years.

5. Pretty OK Farm

11mi from Pawnee · 1 site · Tent · Glencoe, OK

Just thirty minutes from Stillwater and the Oklahoma State University campus, Pretty OK Farm is a small family farm on 40 acres. The main gate is between two bridges that cross the Salt Creek. We are dedicated to cultivating a peaceful environment where joy and beauty can be found in everyday life. Our simple, tranquil retreat offers tent camping and space for intimate weddings and celebrations. We raise novelty poultry for eggs and pets, Mini Nubian dairy goats, and honey bees. As of early 2025 our animals have not been moved to this property yet, while we focus on building the infrastructure and life of our dreams.

6. Blissful Boondocking

27mi from Pawnee · 4 sites · Tents · Perry, OK

Several secluded spots with fishing. Stocked with bass and crappie West of stillwater 10 miles off of I35 There are 2 miles of dirt roads to get here Sites are currently primitive with no water or electeic

Public campgrounds near Pawnee

Osage Point Campground

22mi from Pawnee · 14 sites · Tents, RVs · in Keystone Lake

Sandy Park Campground

25mi from Pawnee · 14 sites · Tents, RVs · in Kaw Lake

100%

(1)

Osage Cove Campground

27mi from Pawnee · 97 sites · Tents, RVs · in Kaw Lake

Mcfadden Cove Campground

27mi from Pawnee · 14 sites · Tents, RVs · in Kaw Lake

Keystone Ramp Campground

27mi from Pawnee · 14 sites · Tents, RVs · in Keystone Lake

Sarge Creek Campground

30mi from Pawnee · 52 sites · Tents, RVs · in Kaw Lake

Motorcycle Island, Apalachia Bay, Keystone Lake

100%

(4)

Appalachia Bay Campground

30mi from Pawnee · 14 sites · Tents, RVs · in Keystone Lake

Washunga Bay Campground

32mi from Pawnee · 24 sites · Tents, RVs · in Kaw Lake

Washington Irving South Campground

32mi from Pawnee · 41 sites · Tents, RVs · in Keystone Lake

Coon Creek Campground

32mi from Pawnee · 54 sites · Tents, RVs · in Kaw Lake

Keystone Campground

32mi from Pawnee · 176 sites · Tents, RVs · in Keystone State Park OK

Twin Points Campground

33mi from Pawnee · 49 sites · Tents, RVs · in Skiatook Lake

Stories from the community

H

Hope

3 weeks ago

1 night at Three Ponds Community

A blissful breath of fresh air! Wonderful fairy trails down to a brook, beautiful structures, sweet animals and incredible people! So grateful for this opportunity to be here!

I

Iena

3 weeks ago

3 nights at Three Ponds Community

I loved the sunny hut. The trials behind the hut was nice to walk and explore to set the other places to stay in. I enjoyed my stay.

S

Suleyman

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Wild Blue Acres

It was an amazing place, silent and peaceful. People were so nice and accomodating

J

Jason

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Three Ponds Community

Creek side cabin was perfect for us! Wonderful community, secluded cabin, and friendly people and animals. Hailey was kind enough to spend the morning with us and share some amazing cacao while we meditated. Highly recommend! Also close to several hiking trails in the ancient forest.

Honeysuckle is a small hidden campsite with it's own firepit, hammock, and bench.

A

Andrew

October 2025

Tent

With kids

1 night at Three Ponds Community

We stayed at the honeysuckle site and it was perfect! The site was about 75 feet from the parking area and they also have carts that you can borrow to get all your stuff to the site. The trails were perfect for my 4 year old and he made friends with Spooky, the resident dog! We followed Spooky as he excitedly showed us around all the parts of the trail. The campsite was very quiet and we couldn't hear or see any other campers around us. We will definitely be back and we'll bring friends! My son won't stop talking about how much he misses Spooky!

Site 5, nice shaded area by the rock creek

C

Carly

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Westmuckett Homestead

This was such a special place, and we loved the wooded seclusion of site 5. The hammock was a treat for our daughters, and our dogs loved roaming around off leash. The trails and property are so well maintained, and the owners were incredibly hospitable. We'll definitely be back!

A

Amber

October 2025

25 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Westmuckett Homestead

Wonderful campsite, good view, unexpected surprise of full hookup!! Host was super prompt in answering questions! Would highly recommend.

Mike

October 2025

2 nights at Three Ponds Community

The space that they have created here is incredible. The pure energy & peace was so refreshing! Take advantage of the Hapé ceremony. Also, the geodesic dome was so neat. You will not regret booking. My family left feeling full and energized! Like hitting a reset button! Thank you guys!

K

Kailyn

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Westmuckett Homestead

Beautiful area that felt very secluded but was close enough to town for any needs.

Natalie

October 2025

Tent

2 nights at Three Ponds Community

The space was well set up, path are clearly marked, and information was communicated clearly from the host. Getting to the tent site location is not for the faint of heart, though is very doable if you are willing and able, just be ready to put in some sweat equity pulling the cart they provided. I would estimate the trek back up to the parking spot from the tent site, with the cart fully loaded with gear, was about 12 to 15 minutes with several pauses to catch my breath. Environment was beautiful and the smell of cedar was very pungent. Plenty of wildlife to behold when pausing to notice. Amenities were clean and in good working order. Outdoor shower had nice hot water! Thank you for allowing me to share your sweet place.

A

Adam

September 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Three Ponds Community

The whole experience was just outstanding! Open line of communication from start to finish, the hospitality, and being able to have rented the camping location at such a short notice and for as dirt cheap as it was! My girlfriend and I loved and appreciated the every second of it. And especially since this was my girlfriend's first time ever camping. We've already discussed plans for our next little getaway there, as we ABSOLUTELY will be returning.

G

Glo

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Three Ponds Community

You just have to go to experience for yourself! Absolutely incredible vision come to life! Glad there are those who dream like this.

S

Sam

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Three Ponds Community

Great place to camp! We had a lot of fun and plan to go again some time soon.

Sarah

September 2025

Tent

With kids

2 nights at Westmuckett Homestead

We had a great time at site 2. Easy access to the composting toilet (which is awesome!) for my toddlers and it was nice and open for them to run around. The picnic table, hammocks, and grate for cooking over the fire were awesome additions as well!! We will definitely be back, and are excited to try out the more primitive camping sites Ash has to offer!

Charniece

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Three Ponds Community

I really enjoyed this site. Joe was very welcoming and Spooky (the friendly dog) was a nice addition to the visit. The campsite was spacious and felt very private. As a female solo traveler, I felt very safe at this location. I would definitely be open to staying at this location again if the opportunity presents itself.

W

William

September 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Three Ponds Community

We took the kids camping for one night and stayed at the “Way Out” camp site. The kids are 4 and 5 years old and they had so much fun. The “Way Out” site is well… way out! The wagons are a huge help, but you’ll still have to put in some effort (especially when leaving as it is uphill on the way back to the parking lot). I highly recommend staying here and experiencing it! All the sites and cabins look great. We will definitely be back. Hopefully soon!

E

Esther

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Three Ponds Community

We loved tent camping on Joe's land! Joe and his family are so welcoming! My kids really enjoyed seeing all of their animals and playing with their dogs and cats. We followed their dog, Spooky, all through the trails. Their land is beautiful and the trails are well-maintained. It was a short walk from the car to the campsite. I couldn't ask for a better place to get away. We spent one afternoon and drove into Tulsa to Gathering Place. My kids had a blast! This trip was just what my kids and I needed! We will definitely be back in the future!

T

Travis

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Westmuckett Homestead

This place is beautiful, secluded, and best of all...quite. 10/10 would recommend

A

Ashley

August 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Westmuckett Homestead

Beautiful space! Campsite was very well maintained and tucked away. Directions were easy and the map they included helped a lot. I usually camp alone and I felt very safe here. Will definitely be booking again for the fall & winter!

A

Allison

August 2025

With kids

1 night at Three Ponds Community

Lovely campsite, adorable cabin and delightful hosts! Terrific amenities with composting toilet, pool/hot tub and barnyard animals. We had a fun evening looking for meteors in the open sky!