Lake Camping Near Poteau, Oklahoma, US: 12 Best Lake Campsites 2026

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for finding the perfect camping experience! Whether you're a seasoned outdoors enthusiast or a first-time camper, we've got you covered. With over 230 options near Poteau, Oklahoma, specifically tailored for lake lovers like you, you'll find the ideal spot to relax and enjoy nature's beauty. Looking for top-rated campsites? Check out Heavener Runestone Park (210 reviews), Bluegill Hill (121 reviews), and Fresh Life at Rocky Branch (76 reviews). With amenities like trash disposal, potable water, and toilets, you'll have all the essentials for a comfortable stay. And if you're up for some adventure, you can indulge in popular activities like horseback riding, boating, and surfing. So why wait? Start planning your lakeside getaway today, with options as low as $15 per night!

99% (427)

Top-rated campgrounds near Poteau

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for finding the perfect camping experience! Whether you're a seasoned outdoors enthusiast or a first-time camper, we've got you covered. With over 230 options near Poteau, Oklahoma, specifically tailored for lake lovers like you, you'll find the ideal spot to relax and enjoy nature's beauty. Looking for top-rated campsites? Check out Heavener Runestone Park (210 reviews), Bluegill Hill (121 reviews), and Fresh Life at Rocky Branch (76 reviews). With amenities like trash disposal, potable water, and toilets, you'll have all the essentials for a comfortable stay. And if you're up for some adventure, you can indulge in popular activities like horseback riding, boating, and surfing. So why wait? Start planning your lakeside getaway today, with options as low as $15 per night!

99% (427)

Top-rated campgrounds near Poteau

1. Heavener Runestone Park

97%

(518)

11mi from Poteau · 17 sites · Tents, RVs

This 55 acre park is home of a large sandstone that contains 8 markings believed to have been made by Vikings many years ago. The park features a seasonal waterfall, covered picnic areas, playground, amphitheater with seating, community building, scenic views, gift shop and approximately 2 miles of nature trails. Be advised that most tent sites have a tent pad but a few are primitive mountain terrain (rocky). The one RV site is for 16 ft. or less vehicles and smaller teardrop trailers with limited hook-up and no dump station. Restroom and shower facilities are located within the park. Individual campsites DO NOT have onsite toilets. Forest setting while still close to stores in case of forgotten items. Variety of small wildlife in the area. All sites allow campfires UNLESS we are under a county wide burn ban. *Note moderate cancellation policy for most dates - full refund 3 days before check-in time. * ** Special event camping is a strict no refund policy.

2. Sacred Pines

100%

(46)

38mi from Poteau · 17 sites · Tents, Lodging

Surrounded by thousands of acres of National Forest, enjoy secluded time in nature! Stay in our off-grid treehouses, peaceful campsites, cozy tiny homes, and handcrafted cabins, allowing you to connect with others in the wild. We are located near many hiking trails, kayaking spots, swimming holes, atv and bike trails and so muchg more!

3. Winding Stair

97%

(19)

31mi from Poteau · 1 site · Tent, RV

Primitive camping on 35 acres of big trees and rocks. Secluded spots with level, cleared areas are available for tent campers and parking. Park near main road and camp close to your vehicle. Or park and pack down deeper into the woods for a wilderness adventure. Follow a wildlife path or blaze your own trail. The property has sloped and shelved areas. Several options are available for vehicle access. Busses, smaller campers, and vans may choose pull in locations with option to stay hitched or park separately. Motorhomes, RV, and 5th wheelers may use a pull through loop that offers easy in and out for vehicles up to 40ft. We typically have been only booking one group at a time, to provide a private camping experience. However, with the increase in booking requests, we occasionally accept more. When requesting a date block, let us know what kind of experience you are looking for, so we may better accommodate you. Hike into woods with all your gear for isolation? Live out of your self contained camper? Park your vehicle closer to road and tent pad? Rig sleeping hammocks in tall trees? Need string lights and a fire ring? A vintage van to lounge in and watch TV? Let us know! There is room to accommodate large camping groups with multiple vehicles. Free firewood is always available. Near the fire rings, you will find some stacked wood and tinder. You may collect more from forest floor. Nearby attractions and amenities : 4 miles to Lake Talihina and Carl Albert 5 miles to town with local shopping Ice, fuel, water. Farmers market, restaurants, and bar. Laundry, banking, library and hospital. State Highway 1, known as the Talimena Scenic U. S. Highway 271 loops up through the summit. Winding Stair Mountain National Recreation Area and the nearby Upper Kiamichi River and Black Fork Mountain Wilderness areas were created by an act of Congress on October 18, 1988. The recreational area consists of 26,445 acres (107.02 km2), comprising the Winding Stair Mountains, several campgrounds, an 85 acres (340,000 m2) lake and many hiking trails. It lies mostly within LeFlore County, Oklahoma. A 45-mile (72 km) section of the Ouachita National Recreation Trail passes through the recreation area providing for diverse hiking opportunities. Also Nearby: Buffalo Mountain Hang Gliding Bigfoot Museum Shooting range Robbers Cave Sardis Lake Clayton Lake Lake Talihina and Lake Carl Albert Canoeing at Broken Bow Lake Fall Foliage Festival in Talihina Rune Stone, Heavener Choctaw Council House, Tuskahoma Choctaw Labor Day Festival Spiro Indian Mounds in Spiro Boom in the valley in July Little River Speedway World's highest hill at Cavanal Forestry Heritage Center Owner on-site

4. Wister Lake State Park

100%

(1)

153 sites · Wister, Oklahoma

Discover the natural splendor of Lake Wister State Park.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

5. Ouachita National Forest

96%

(25)

342 sites · Mount Ida, Arkansas

The Ouachita mountains may become your new go-to for hiking, fishing, and camping in Arkansas.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

6. Wellness in the Woods

100%

(8)

39mi from Poteau · 25 sites · Tents, RVs

Grown-up grounding getaway. Beautiful, quiet space in nature. Large pond for kayaking and fishing. Walking trail around the pond. 2400 sf building available for additional fees. Incredible sunrise and sunsets. Just off the Talimena Scenic Byway. Cold water bathroom in the large building near campsites. Cabin spots are available as well. Grill and firepits on site for use. Cabins, and others listed on hipcamp as well. 420 friendly, we request you monitor that you and your guests keep it legal.

7. Arkansas River - Robert S. Kerr Pool

94 sites · Brent, Oklahoma

Robert S. Kerr Lock and Dam is known for its fishing and swimming beaches. Anglers will be excited about the abundance of bass, crappie, catfish, walleye, and sunfish. Yum! There are also three swimming beaches here, so bring your swimsuit and sunscreen. Got a boat? Bring it! Launch your sailboat, motorboat, or kayak on the refreshing waters and check out the great surrounding views of spring flowers or fall foliage. There’s a short hiking trail in the park if you want to wander around a bit. This park is ideal for campers seeking a quiet, relaxing getaway on the water.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

8. John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake

100%

(2)

47 sites · Scott, Arkansas

Not to be confused with John Jacob Jingleheimer Schmidt, John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake extends 26 miles along the Arkansas River in both Arkansas and Oklahoma. Its shoreline is characterized by bottomland hardwood timber banks, steep bluffs, open fields, and urban developments. There are oodles of recreational opportunities among four smaller parks, most notably fishing. The fertile waters harbor all kinds of fish native to the state, and the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission stocks the lake with striped sea bass and sauger. Year round catch includes catfish, bream, crappie, white and largemouth bass. Multi-purpose trails are also a popular activity.

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Campfires

9. Brushy Lake State Park

14 sites · Slick, Oklahoma

Discover the serene beauty of Brushy Lake State Park.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

10. Ozark Lake

87%

(5)

102 sites · Mulberry, Arkansas

Discover the serene beauty of Ozark Lake and its myriad outdoor activities.

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Campfires

11. Robbers Cave State Park

86%

(7)

98 sites · Wilburton, Oklahoma

If you're a rock climber, naturalist, or outlaw this state park is gonna become your go-to spot!

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

12. Eufaula Lake

75%

(4)

448 sites · Porum, Oklahoma

If your first thought of Oklahoma is flat land and tumbleweeds, you’ve got another thing coming. Eufaula Lake is here specifically to change your mind with its sandy beaches, and rocky bluffs. Bring the boat and the swimsuit; you are not going to want to miss spending time in the water! Come by in the fall to check out the changing of the leaves. Don’t forget to charge the phones and pack the camera, this is seriously breathtaking and you’ll be kicking yourself if you don’t Instagram the heck out of the fall foliage. Take advantage of the historic town of Eufaula nearby for some antique shops and restaurants as a little break from nature living. Anyway you spend the day, Eufaula Lake is the best place for it!

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

13. Tenkiller Ferry Lake

50%

(7)

550 sites · Redbird Smith, Oklahoma

Named for the prominent Cherokee family who owned the land and ferry, Tenkiller Ferry Lake is steeped in history and picturesque views. With the clearest body of water in Oklahoma, the lake offers abundant water activities: fishing, scuba diving, jet-skiing, sailing, the list goes on so be prepared to get wet! Be sure to check out the floating restaurant too! Farm to table? More like lake to table. Off the lake, explore the rocky bluffs and lush vegetation. Get a nice view of the water from the shore, and have your breath taken away with the spectacular sunsets. Tenkiller Ferry Lake is sure to become an annual trip.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

14. Sardis Lake OK

100%

(3)

114 sites · Clayton, Oklahoma

Cooped up inside? Break out and head to Sardis Lake for some much needed time in nature. Relaxation is the name of the game here. Hang off the pier and fish at the lake, you couldn’t ask for a calmer activity. Take out the boat for a spin and lay on beach soaking in some rays and making sand creatures. Pack a picnic and have the kiddos release energy on the playground. Seriously, this place is an Oklahoma oasis! Make sure to bring the tent because you’re going to want to spend a weekend—if not a lifetime—here.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Public campgrounds near Poteau

100%

(1)

Wister Lake Campground

12mi from Poteau · 153 sites · Tents, RVs · in Wister Lake State Park

100%

(1)

Cedar Lake Equestrian Camp

19mi from Poteau · 10 sites · in Ouachita National Forest

Spacious campsites surrounded by cedars.

100%

(6)

Cedar Lake Campground

19mi from Poteau · 90 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ouachita National Forest

Short Mountain Cove Campground

21mi from Poteau · 32 sites · Tents, RVs · in Arkansas River - Robert S. Kerr Pool

Cowlington Point Campground

21mi from Poteau · 35 sites · Tents, RVs · in Arkansas River - Robert S. Kerr Pool

100%

(1)

Winding Stair Campground

23mi from Poteau · 28 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ouachita National Forest

Applegate Cove Campground

23mi from Poteau · 27 sites · Tents, RVs · in Arkansas River - Robert S. Kerr Pool

Billy Creek Recreation Area

25mi from Poteau · 12 sites · in Ouachita National Forest

100%

(2)

Little Pines Recreation Area

25mi from Poteau · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ouachita National Forest

100%

(2)

Springhill Campground

28mi from Poteau · 47 sites · Tents, RVs · in John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake

Brushy Lake Campground

36mi from Poteau · 14 sites · Tents, RVs · in Brushy Lake State Park

83%

(4)

Clear Creek Campground

38mi from Poteau · 41 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ozark Lake

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

B

Brandon

2 weeks ago

16 ft car

With pets

Weekend Trip to Heavener Runestone Park

Clean campsites. Nice views. Warm shower available at park.

Cory

November 2025

Tent

2 nights at Sacred Pines

It was quiet and the grounds were well kept. Beautiful view!

site features 2 tent pads with space for a couple other tents. Also has 2 tables and a grill

A

Allison

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Heavener Runestone Park

My family and I loved tent camping here! The views were beautiful! We were at site #8, it was very pretty and peaceful. Lots of trees for nice shade and great spot for a hammock. There even happened to be a big event at the overlook one of the days we were there, but there was still enough separation that it wasn’t too loud and we still felt like we had our privacy. The Runestone didn’t disappoint! We thought it was cool. We really enjoyed hiking the trails too.

Campsite is pictured on the right side of the photo.

E

Erick

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Heavener Runestone Park

Beautiful spot and park! Will definitely visit again.

Ashkan

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Sacred Pines

We loved the vibe and our cabin. It might look a bit expensive, but you would get more than what you need.

G

Greg

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

3 nights at Heavener Runestone Park

Incredible location, great views, and check-in couldn’t have been easier. Highly recommend a stay here at the park!

Lori

November 2025

Tent

With kids

1 night at Heavener Runestone Park

Watching the sunset at this location was breathtaking! The campsite, restroom, grounds, and gift shop were clean and well maintained. Everyone there was friendly and very informative. We came for an educational event that was fun and well organized. My family loved every moment of our stay from hiking, seeing the runestone, and tent camping!

R

Roger

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Heavener Runestone Park

The campsite was absolutely lovely! The forest felt more like the Black Hills, SD. I had no idea Oklahoma could look like this. It was SO peaceful I could've been 100 miles from civilization, yet Hevener was nestled beautifully in the valley below. Hearing those spooky train horns every hour or so was neat-my boy couldn't get enough! The short hike to the runestone was fun, and that sweet young lady in the gift shop went outta her way for our yard game. What a cozy Oklahoma spot! Terrain was a bit rough and steep and rocky so be advised.

Loreena

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Heavener Runestone Park

Excellent campsite for our first time visiting the park! The trails were great and easy to navigate, amenities offered worked well, and the host was communicative too. If you plan to stay at this campsite (or probably anywhere in the park), just be mindful there’s a very active train station below the park so you’ll hear it both day & night—earplugs were an essential for me. However, that doesn’t deter my recommendation. The fall leaves were gorgeous, so we picked the perfect weekend to stay.

R

Russ

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Heavener Runestone Park

Cool views. #10 spot is a lot more of a upward hike than it lets on. It's too far from the site to your vehicle.

J

Justin

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Sacred Pines

This campground was nothing short of amazing! The owners were incredibly kind, friendly, and helpful despite us staying during Scary Pines Fall Festival. The said festival gave our group plenty of things to do, but even without that the kayaking and hiking that my group did was amazing. All around this place is amazing and I couldn’t recommend it enough!!

k

kellimeyer723

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Heavener Runestone Park

A quaint little park with unique history and the perfect hikes for beginners or those needing an hour to waltz with nature. You're outside of town but not so far away that running back for something you forgot to be a real problem. Campsites are as you would expect, a platform that is just big enough for our large sundome tent (8 person), a firepit and metal grill for each site and a concrete and wood picnic table. They even have shepherd hooks for campers to hang a lantern or lights. The camping area is lit up at night by a string of bulb lights, giving just enough glow to get down to the bathrooms without being a nuisance when trying to sleep. A wonderful setup for a relaxing weekend. My son and I were the only people in the park at one point and it was very peaceful. Crows, woodpeckers, and squirrels abound but not much else in the way of wildlife. A definite for families or someone looking for a quiet place to pitch a tent or hang a hammock.

Kathy

November 2025

Tent

With pets

3 nights at Heavener Runestone Park

Wonderful rustic park! First is the runestone, whose conjecture seems entirely plausible and fascinating! Second, the park was developed around 1970 and looks like it’s basically been unchanged. Third, it’s just plain beautiful. The staff are awesome and very responsive. We loved it.

M

Micah

October 2025

With pets

2 nights at Sacred Pines

We loved our stay at Sacred Pines! We stayed in one of the tiny home cabins. Beautifully constructed, had everything we needed and more. The grounds surrounding us were a beautiful spot to walk our puppies around. Super peaceful and close to so many awesome hiking trails. Not great cell service out there (it’s the country, duh. We loved it, really made us more present and hangout with each other rather than be on screens) Perk: our tiny cabin had an awesome pizza oven that we used to make some home made pizza after a long hike! Thank you Miranda for creating such an awesome space, we will be back

K

Kelly

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Winding Stair

Jeana had great communication! She answered all my questions leading up to our reservation. She also gave me lots of great information about the campsite and what was available or what we would need to bring ourselves. Although we did not get to stay at her place in the end, which was entirely on our end, we do plan on doing so in the future. We were absolutely happy with Jeana, her communication, information provided, questions answered and her follow up.

A

Ashley Randolph

October 2025

Tent

With kids

3 nights at Sacred Pines

Incredible place to camp 🏕️ ran to Hot Springs for a quick day trip! Kids loved the pond, zip line and swings! Second time here and already can’t wait to come again!!

S

Saul

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Heavener Runestone Park

Amazing spot! We stayed through the weekend! Great views! Amazing amenities, ZJ helped us get power to our camping spot (Overlook Pavilion). Kiddos loved the scavenger hunt and the different hikes. Over all we will be coming back soon! Thank you to all the staff!

C

Charlotte

September 2025

16 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Heavener Runestone Park

Heavener Runestone is breathtaking! This is our third time, and not our last! We even golfed at nearby Wolf Mountain, on a very well maintained golf course. Clean bathroom and shower house. We found this campground 4 years ago, and have built it into our travels. Highly recommend!!

J

Jacob

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Sacred Pines

My two boys and I had a great weekend here. Highly recommend camping here with kids. The movie night was a great touch as well.

J

Janae

July 2025

Weekend Trip to Sacred Pines

We stayed at Sacred Pines for our anniversary and such a relaxing time. We loved playing frisbee golf and cornhole, and even had a couple surprise visits from their sweet dogs! The loft bed can be a little tricky to get up to, but I have to say, it was one of the most comfortable beds! The whole place had a peaceful vibe, and we definitely recommend it. We hope to stay here again someday for sure.