Camping areas near Wilburton, Oklahoma range in elevation from 600 to 2,600 feet within the Sans Bois Mountains, creating distinct microclimates across different campgrounds. The region has over 50 miles of hiking trails connecting various camping areas, with most primitive sites accessible year-round despite seasonal road conditions. Summer humidity often exceeds 80% during July and August camping seasons.
What to do
Horseback riding trails: Robbers Cave State Park offers dedicated equestrian camping areas with direct trail access. "This is such a great park, one of the best I have ever been to for equine camping. Horses are very happy here, just remember to bring your coggins paperwork," notes Kent B., who found the equestrian facilities exceptional.
Trout fishing: Multiple waterways near Wilburton provide fishing opportunities, particularly at Highway 9 Landing. One visitor shared, "Trout fishing just steps away from camp and we had the whole campground to ourselves for the night." Fishing permits are required and can be purchased in Wilburton or at larger campground offices.
Hiking the Ouachita Trail: The 220-mile Ouachita Trail has its western terminus at Talimena State Park, making it an ideal starting point for day hikes or longer treks. "The OT is a 200+ mile trail and this park is the Western Terminus. For a small daily fee you can park your car here for the duration of the hike," explains Mike D., who has used the park as a base for longer hikes.
What campers like
Privacy in primitive sites: Dispersed camping at Dead Man Gap offers seclusion that's hard to find at developed campgrounds. "Our closest neighbors were at least 300 yards away and we only knew they were there because we had hiked away from our camp and noticed their fire," reports Ryin J., highlighting the isolation available at these free sites.
Swimming options: Lake Carlton at Robbers Cave provides both natural swimming areas and developed facilities. "We spent two afternoons swimming in Lake Carlton. The designated swim area has a very rocky drop-off for an entrance, but once out it was very nice swimming. There is a concrete pier that is located along the swim ropes that you can climb up and jump off of," explains Kyle H.
Accessible wildlife viewing: Many campsites offer opportunities to observe local wildlife from your campsite. At Dead Man Gap Dispersed Campsite, one camper noted, "The creek water runs all the time so no need for your forest noise making machine. All the sounds you'll need are by the fire and the Lillard Creek."
What you should know
Road conditions vary drastically: Access to primitive sites requires appropriate vehicles. At Deadman South Trail, Brett F. explains, "The first place I had planned for was taken, so this was my next option and it did not disappoint." Many forest roads deteriorate after rain, with 4WD recommended for dispersed sites.
Bathroom facilities: Quality and cleanliness of facilities varies by location. At Robbers Cave State Park, one camper observed, "Showers need cleaning and water pressure is very poor," while at Talimena State Park another camper had a different experience: "The bathrooms and showers are very clean. It is a great place to grab a shower after a few days hiking."
Seasonal water levels: Creek access varies throughout the year. A visitor to Dead Man Gap noted, "We walked through 2 and they didn't look bad as I walked through. If you go here, practice leave no trace." During summer drought, many smaller water features may completely dry up.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature playground equipment for children. At Brooken Cove, Angie N. mentions, "Great playground for kids, clean bathrooms with showers. There are several sandy beach areas and the water is shallow for a great distance out, making it good for swimming."
Educational opportunities: Ranger programs provide learning activities for children. At Robbers Cave, Kyle H. recalls, "When you get to camp they will give you a schedule of all the events that are going on throughout the week you are staying. We did a hayride that lead us through the park to the stables where there is a petting zoo."
Trail difficulty considerations: Some trails are too challenging for young children or those with mobility concerns. Matt B. shared his experience at Robbers Cave: "We tried a few trails but were too hard for us. We have a daughter with cerebral palsy that we pull in a wagon and the trails were too rough for the wagon."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: For RVs, choosing the right loop makes a significant difference. At Turkey Flat Campground, Holly K. notes, "$23 for an RV spot and $14 for tent spot as of 2020. RV spots are paved," providing a more stable setup for larger vehicles.
Hookup availability: Full hookups are limited in the region but available at select sites. "We had site 23 in the Old Circle Campground," explains one Robbers Cave visitor. "It was a pull through site with full hookups located only about 5 feet off the main campground road."
Space between sites: Many campers appreciate the generous spacing at Turkey Flat. "Great campsite for RV's and large families. Plenty of room in between campsites to allow groups to have both an RV and tent set up if needed. Full hookup's are available in most spots," shares Knox M. about the layout that provides more privacy than typical RV parks.
