Searching for the best camping near Poteau, OK? There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Find the best campgrounds near Poteau, OK. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.
Situated in the hills and forests of southeast Oklahoma’s San Bois Mountains, Robbers Cave State Park has a history almost as exciting as the scenery and activities it offers. The park earned notoriety in the early part of the 20th century as a hideout for outlaws including Jesse James and Belle Starr. While the park recognizes this fame, today the park’s draw is as a family-friendly destination offering luxurious Robbers Cave cabins and campsites.
Campers can stay at 22 modern RV sites with full hookups, 67 sites with water and electric hookups, and 86 primitive camping along secluded trails. For those looking for a more cozy stay, the 26 Robbers Cave cabins offer stunning park views, as well as a full kitchen, a fireplace, television and a full bathroom (these make for a reliable stay at the park depending on the weather in Wilburton, OK).
Once you’ve settled into your stay, you’ll find countless activities in the park, enough to make you come back to do it all. There’s miles of hiking, biking and equestrian trails, swimming, fishing and paddling at the park’s three reservoirs and numerous creeks, rock climbing/rappelling, and guided tours through the historic sites that once hid outlaws from law enforcement.
$32 / night
Cedar Lake is located in southeast Oklahoma, in the pine and hardwood-forested mountains of the Ouachita National Forest. The campground is situated on the shores of the scenic lake, a popular destination for boating, fishing, horseback riding and hiking.
The campground is a popular starting point for the Winding Stair Mountain Equestrian Trails, a system of over 70 miles of marked horseback riding trails. Hiking, swimming, boating and fishing on Cedar Lake are popular activities. A swimming area, boat ramp and fishing piers are available within the recreation area. A hiking trail traverses around the the perimeter of Cedar Lake offering varied views of the lake and its tributaries.____ The Talimena Scenic Byway is located within 10 miles of the campground, offering mountain top views of the valleys around Cedar Lake and historic sites along the way. The Talihina State Park, the western terminus of the Ouachita National Recreation Trail (OT), is located 21 miles from the Cedar Lake Campground. The OT extends across the Forest for 192 miles, the longest continuous trail system on the Forest.____ Kelly Branch Rifle Range is located 10 miles from the recreation area.____
The campground is a popular starting point for the Winding Stair Mountain Equestrian Trails, a system of over 70 miles of marked horseback riding trails. Hiking, swimming, boating and fishing on Cedar Lake are popular activities. A swimming area, boat ramp and fishing piers are available within the recreation area. A hiking trail traverses around the the perimeter of Cedar Lake offering varied views of the lake and its tributaries.____ The Talimena Scenic Byway is located within 10 miles of the campground, offering mountain top views of the valleys around Cedar Lake and historic sites along the way. The Talihina State Park, the western terminus of the Ouachita National Recreation Trail (OT), is located 21 miles from the Cedar Lake Campground. The OT extends across the Forest for 192 miles, the longest continuous trail system on the Forest.____ Kelly Branch Rifle Range is located 10 miles from the recreation area.____
Cedar Lake covers 86 acres and is situated at an elevation of 900 feet. Fall foliage season usually occurs from the last two weeks in October to the first two weeks in November. The Ouachita National Forest covers 1.8 million acres in central Arkansas and southeastern Oklahoma. The forest encompasses 700 miles of trails, 43 vistas, six wilderness areas and the highest elevations between the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Rockies.
Talimena National Scenic Byway is located 10 miles from the campground. Ouachita National Recreation Trail (OT), western terminus trailhead is located at the Talihina State Park, 21 miles from the campground. Heavener, Oklahoma, Heavener Runestone Park is located 14 miles from the campground.
Refunds may be requested for the following: Death Medical emergency Storm event Mechanical
$25 / night
Heavener Runestone Park is a 55-acre park located in Le Flore County, Oklahoma. It is located near the city of Heavener, Oklahoma. Formerly a state park of Oklahoma, it was transferred to the City of Heavener in 2011, and is now operated by the Friends of Heavener Runestone, a non-profit organization. The park features a little over 2 miles of hiking trails, seasonal waterfall, playground, gift shop, over a dozen camp sites and spectacular views. There are clean facilities on site including free hot showers for all campers. Located just on the edge of town for the quick trip for things forgotten but still gives the forest camping vibe.
$15 - $20 / night
Download a Springhill park map HERE__ Springhill Park sits along John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake in the lush, rolling hills of Arkansas. Campers come here for boating, birding and relaxing.Avid mountain bikers enjoy the Springhill Park Mountain Bike Trail, a 10-mile "fast" trail where experienced bikers race frequently. The trail is also a designated National Recreation Trail.
Year-round fishing for catfish, bream, crappie and white and largemouth bass is fantastic in the fertile waters of the Arkansas. From late fall until early spring, the tailwaters immediately below the lock and dam boasts some of the best sauger fishing in the country.
Year-round fishing for catfish, bream, crappie and white and largemouth bass is fantastic in the fertile waters of the Arkansas. From late fall until early spring, the tailwaters immediately below the lock and dam boasts some of the best sauger fishing in the country.
John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake is on the James W. Trimble Lock and Dam of the Arkansas River. Some campsites line the river while others sit between the lake and Massard Creek. Bottomland hardwood timber banks, steep bluffs and open agricultural fields create the scenery.
The Fort Smith Museum of History is located about 20 minutes away.
$50 - $75 / night
Welcome to our KOA, a green oasis only 3/4 mile off I-40, with long, level, shaded Pull-Thru RV Sites, Deluxe and Camping Cabins, a tiny house and large, grassy Tent Sites. You'll find fast, streamable, and secure free Wi-Fi and great satellite reception. Enjoy the pool, jump pad, walking trails, fishing pond, playground, gaga ball pit, box hockey, washer toss, volleyball and Kamp K9. The rec room has a kitchen, treadmill, board games, books, puzzles, and a 50-inch TV/DVD player with movies. Make this KOA your base camp while you discover all the area has to offer, including restaurants, antique stores, Native American history, casinos, farmers' markets, train rides, all while just 25 miles from Fort Smith, Arkansas. Explore the beautiful Ouachita or Boston mountains, Robert S. Kerr Reservoir or Lake Tenkiller, where hiking, biking, boating, scuba diving and fishing are plentiful. We also fill propane tanks mounted on RVs or portables from 20#-100#! Pool: May 20 - October 1. Max pull thru: 90 feet. Your hosts: the Maust family.
Queen Wilhelmina State Park Campground, near Mena, AR, is a solid spot for those looking to enjoy the great outdoors with some added comforts. This place is open year-round and offers a mix of tent, RV, and glamping accommodations. The campground is perched high on a mountain, providing some killer views, especially at sunset.
The lodge here is a big hit, boasting fantastic food and friendly staff. It's also got a restaurant, mini golf, and a mini train—though those are seasonal attractions. The bathhouse is clean and warm, which is a blessing when it's cold outside.
For those who like to hike, there are several trails with great views, though some can get a bit overgrown once you venture into the national forest. The Lover’s Leap trail is a popular one, offering a moderate hike with a rewarding lookout.
The campsites themselves are a bit quirky. Some folks have noted that the layout can be odd, with amenities like picnic tables and fire pits placed in unconventional spots. But hey, it’s all part of the adventure, right? Just be prepared for sites that are pretty close together.
Pets are welcome, but keep an eye out for ticks. And while there’s no sewer hookup, there are sanitary dump stations available. If you’re into stargazing, the night sky here is incredible.
Overall, Queen Wilhelmina State Park Campground is a great place to kick back, enjoy some beautiful scenery, and maybe even make a few new friends around the campfire.
$23 / night
Visitors enjoy the peaceful setting of this campground located within three miles of several trail systems, including Horsethief and Billy Creek Trails. The Mountain-top Trail has a one-mile loop and a two-mile loop adjacent to the campground. The 192-mile Ouachita National Recreation Trail passes the campground as it extends from Talimena State Park in Oklahoma to Pinnacle Mountain State Park in Arkansas. This campground is one of many attractions along the Talimena Scenic Byway, a 54-mile highway winding along the crests of Winding Stair and Rich Mountains. Emerald Vista, north of this campground, boasts a birds-eye view of the Ouachita National Forest from atop the Scenic Byway. Picnic tables are available. A backpacker’s camp, located about 300 feet west of the main campground, is open year-round. Facilities include five tent pads, table, fire ring, lantern poles and pit toilet.
$3 - $14 / night
Welcome to Talimena State Park Campground, nestled near Talihina, Oklahoma. This spot is a gem for those looking to immerse themselves in nature while still enjoying some modern comforts. The campground is open all year and offers a mix of tent and RV sites, making it a versatile choice for different types of campers.
One of the standout features here is the access to the Ouachita Trail, which starts right at the park. This trail stretches for about 200 miles, so whether you're up for a long hike or just a short stroll, you've got options. The park also has direct access to around 45 miles of ATV trails, which is a big draw for those who love off-roading.
The campground itself is well-maintained, with clean showers and toilets that visitors frequently praise. There's also a sanitary dump station and electric hookups for RVs. If you're planning to cook up some meals, you'll appreciate the picnic tables and the fact that fires are allowed. Just be mindful of the road noise, as the campground is close to the highway.
For those traveling with pets, you'll be happy to know that pets are allowed. There's also a small market on-site for any last-minute essentials you might need. If you're into a bit of socializing, the camp hosts are known to be friendly and helpful, adding a welcoming touch to your stay.
In summary, Talimena State Park Campground offers a great mix of natural beauty and convenient amenities. Whether you're here for the hiking, the ATV trails, or just a peaceful night under the stars, this campground has something to offer.
$10 - $23 / night
Situated in the hills and forests of southeast Oklahoma’s San Bois Mountains, Robbers Cave State Park has a history almost as exciting as the scenery and activities it offers. The park earned notoriety in the early part of the 20th century as a hideout for outlaws including Jesse James and Belle Starr. While the park recognizes this fame, today the park’s draw is as a family-friendly destination offering luxurious Robbers Cave cabins and campsites.
Campers can stay at 22 modern RV sites with full hookups, 67 sites with water and electric hookups, and 86 primitive camping along secluded trails. For those looking for a more cozy stay, the 26 Robbers Cave cabins offer stunning park views, as well as a full kitchen, a fireplace, television and a full bathroom (these make for a reliable stay at the park depending on the weather in Wilburton, OK).
Once you’ve settled into your stay, you’ll find countless activities in the park, enough to make you come back to do it all. There’s miles of hiking, biking and equestrian trails, swimming, fishing and paddling at the park’s three reservoirs and numerous creeks, rock climbing/rappelling, and guided tours through the historic sites that once hid outlaws from law enforcement.
$32 / night
Cedar Lake is located in southeast Oklahoma, in the pine and hardwood-forested mountains of the Ouachita National Forest. The campground is situated on the shores of the scenic lake, a popular destination for boating, fishing, horseback riding and hiking.
The campground is a popular starting point for the Winding Stair Mountain Equestrian Trails, a system of over 70 miles of marked horseback riding trails. Hiking, swimming, boating and fishing on Cedar Lake are popular activities. A swimming area, boat ramp and fishing piers are available within the recreation area. A hiking trail traverses around the the perimeter of Cedar Lake offering varied views of the lake and its tributaries.____ The Talimena Scenic Byway is located within 10 miles of the campground, offering mountain top views of the valleys around Cedar Lake and historic sites along the way. The Talihina State Park, the western terminus of the Ouachita National Recreation Trail (OT), is located 21 miles from the Cedar Lake Campground. The OT extends across the Forest for 192 miles, the longest continuous trail system on the Forest.____ Kelly Branch Rifle Range is located 10 miles from the recreation area.____
The campground is a popular starting point for the Winding Stair Mountain Equestrian Trails, a system of over 70 miles of marked horseback riding trails. Hiking, swimming, boating and fishing on Cedar Lake are popular activities. A swimming area, boat ramp and fishing piers are available within the recreation area. A hiking trail traverses around the the perimeter of Cedar Lake offering varied views of the lake and its tributaries.____ The Talimena Scenic Byway is located within 10 miles of the campground, offering mountain top views of the valleys around Cedar Lake and historic sites along the way. The Talihina State Park, the western terminus of the Ouachita National Recreation Trail (OT), is located 21 miles from the Cedar Lake Campground. The OT extends across the Forest for 192 miles, the longest continuous trail system on the Forest.____ Kelly Branch Rifle Range is located 10 miles from the recreation area.____
Cedar Lake covers 86 acres and is situated at an elevation of 900 feet. Fall foliage season usually occurs from the last two weeks in October to the first two weeks in November. The Ouachita National Forest covers 1.8 million acres in central Arkansas and southeastern Oklahoma. The forest encompasses 700 miles of trails, 43 vistas, six wilderness areas and the highest elevations between the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Rockies.
Talimena National Scenic Byway is located 10 miles from the campground. Ouachita National Recreation Trail (OT), western terminus trailhead is located at the Talihina State Park, 21 miles from the campground. Heavener, Oklahoma, Heavener Runestone Park is located 14 miles from the campground.
Refunds may be requested for the following: Death Medical emergency Storm event Mechanical
$25 / night
10% off Request to BookHeavener Runestone Park is a 55-acre park located in Le Flore County, Oklahoma. It is located near the city of Heavener, Oklahoma. Formerly a state park of Oklahoma, it was transferred to the City of Heavener in 2011, and is now operated by the Friends of Heavener Runestone, a non-profit organization. The park features a little over 2 miles of hiking trails, seasonal waterfall, playground, gift shop, over a dozen camp sites and spectacular views. There are clean facilities on site including free hot showers for all campers. Located just on the edge of town for the quick trip for things forgotten but still gives the forest camping vibe.
$15 - $20 / night
Download a Springhill park map HERE__ Springhill Park sits along John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake in the lush, rolling hills of Arkansas. Campers come here for boating, birding and relaxing.Avid mountain bikers enjoy the Springhill Park Mountain Bike Trail, a 10-mile "fast" trail where experienced bikers race frequently. The trail is also a designated National Recreation Trail.
Year-round fishing for catfish, bream, crappie and white and largemouth bass is fantastic in the fertile waters of the Arkansas. From late fall until early spring, the tailwaters immediately below the lock and dam boasts some of the best sauger fishing in the country.
Year-round fishing for catfish, bream, crappie and white and largemouth bass is fantastic in the fertile waters of the Arkansas. From late fall until early spring, the tailwaters immediately below the lock and dam boasts some of the best sauger fishing in the country.
John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake is on the James W. Trimble Lock and Dam of the Arkansas River. Some campsites line the river while others sit between the lake and Massard Creek. Bottomland hardwood timber banks, steep bluffs and open agricultural fields create the scenery.
The Fort Smith Museum of History is located about 20 minutes away.
$50 - $75 / night
Welcome to our KOA, a green oasis only 3/4 mile off I-40, with long, level, shaded Pull-Thru RV Sites, Deluxe and Camping Cabins, a tiny house and large, grassy Tent Sites. You'll find fast, streamable, and secure free Wi-Fi and great satellite reception. Enjoy the pool, jump pad, walking trails, fishing pond, playground, gaga ball pit, box hockey, washer toss, volleyball and Kamp K9. The rec room has a kitchen, treadmill, board games, books, puzzles, and a 50-inch TV/DVD player with movies. Make this KOA your base camp while you discover all the area has to offer, including restaurants, antique stores, Native American history, casinos, farmers' markets, train rides, all while just 25 miles from Fort Smith, Arkansas. Explore the beautiful Ouachita or Boston mountains, Robert S. Kerr Reservoir or Lake Tenkiller, where hiking, biking, boating, scuba diving and fishing are plentiful. We also fill propane tanks mounted on RVs or portables from 20#-100#! Pool: May 20 - October 1. Max pull thru: 90 feet. Your hosts: the Maust family.
Queen Wilhelmina State Park Campground, near Mena, AR, is a solid spot for those looking to enjoy the great outdoors with some added comforts. This place is open year-round and offers a mix of tent, RV, and glamping accommodations. The campground is perched high on a mountain, providing some killer views, especially at sunset.
The lodge here is a big hit, boasting fantastic food and friendly staff. It's also got a restaurant, mini golf, and a mini train—though those are seasonal attractions. The bathhouse is clean and warm, which is a blessing when it's cold outside.
For those who like to hike, there are several trails with great views, though some can get a bit overgrown once you venture into the national forest. The Lover’s Leap trail is a popular one, offering a moderate hike with a rewarding lookout.
The campsites themselves are a bit quirky. Some folks have noted that the layout can be odd, with amenities like picnic tables and fire pits placed in unconventional spots. But hey, it’s all part of the adventure, right? Just be prepared for sites that are pretty close together.
Pets are welcome, but keep an eye out for ticks. And while there’s no sewer hookup, there are sanitary dump stations available. If you’re into stargazing, the night sky here is incredible.
Overall, Queen Wilhelmina State Park Campground is a great place to kick back, enjoy some beautiful scenery, and maybe even make a few new friends around the campfire.
$23 / night
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Poteau, OK?
According to TheDyrt.com, Poteau, OK offers a wide range of camping options, with 122 campgrounds and RV parks near Poteau, OK and 6 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Poteau, OK?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Poteau, OK is Robbers Cave State Park — Robbers Cave State Resort Park with a 4.2-star rating from 60 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Poteau, OK?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 free dispersed camping spots near Poteau, OK.
What parks are near Poteau, OK?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 24 parks near Poteau, OK that allow camping, notably Mojave River Dam and Monroe Lake.
