Table of Contents Show
Camping costs can add up pretty quickly between the camping gear, supplies, and any must-have camping treats. When you throw in the price of a campsite, it can start to add up just a bit too much.
Thankfully, if the campsite costs make you cringe, you can find some free camping options. Let’s look at how you can snag some free camping in Oklahoma.
Can You Camp for Free in Oklahoma?
Those in the camping world know that you can find abundant free camping in the western region of the United States. But this also includes Oklahoma. It might take a bit more work to find great free camping in Oklahoma, but we think it is worth the effort. Follow along, and we’ll share some great free campsites.
Pro Tip: We have the inside scoop on how to find free RV camping all across the U.S. →
When Is the Best Time of Year for Camping in Oklahoma?
The best time to camp in Oklahoma is in the spring or fall. These seasons will give you comfortable temperatures and plentiful opportunities for outdoor recreation. Summers in Oklahoma can get hot and humid. You can still enjoy camping in the summer; however, it can get sticky.
How to Find Free Camping in Oklahoma
It can feel overwhelming looking for free camping locations for newbies and camping veterans. You can find the perfect spot through word of mouth or check out the camping and RVing Facebook groups for amazing community suggestions. Additionally, some websites and apps can point you in the right direction.
Campendium, Allstays, iOverlander, FreeCampsites, and The Dyrt are all great options when it comes to finding free camping in Oklahoma and virtually anywhere else you’d like to camp.
The 7 Best Free Camping Spots in Oklahoma
It never hurts to have a nudge in the right direction. Here are a few of our favorite spots for free camping in Oklahoma.
1. Black Kettle Campground
Black Kettle Campground is a free camping spot in Crawford, Oklahoma. Those camping in a tent or smaller camper may enjoy this spot. Reviews state that campers under 30 ft will feel most comfortable here. It has 12 sites with firepits and picnic tables.
Some short trails from the campground give great views of the Oklahoma landscape. Many find this a great spot to stop for an overnight trip while passing through. You can easily access it, and it provides plenty of tree cover so you’ll feel surrounded by nature.
2. Felt Picnic Area
The Felt Picnic Area is in Felt, Oklahoma. If you need a peaceful and safe place to pull in to rest for the night, you’ve found a great spot. The picnic area lies about a half-mile off the interstate with level parking.
Reviews say it has a restroom and almost always has plenty of space for more RVers. The flat parking area provides a great view of a prairie. If you need to stay connected, AT&T and T-Mobile have excellent cover and speeds here.
3. American Horse Lake
You can find free camping in Geary, Oklahoma at American Horse Lake. It sits on a little lake, providing a great place to kayak and fish. Some reviews even mention that they swam in the lake. However, you will need to have an Oklahoma fishing license here.
American Horse Lake has space to fit a variety of rig sizes. Rangers patrol the area, so you won’t have to worry about safety here. You can set up near the lake and enjoy the view. Plus, you’ll have many options if you camp in a tent instead of an RV. But you’ll have plenty of room no matter your camping style.
4. Lake Carl Blackwell
Take a trip to the Lake Carl Blackwell campground in Stillwater, Oklahoma. Those camping here will enjoy lake views and clean bathrooms. It has some pull-through and level sites.
You can enjoy sandy beaches, swimming, fishing, boating, water skiing, and even many equestrian trails. Take in some of the most spectacular sunsets from your campsite with the lake in the distance.
5. Blue River Campsites
If you travel through Tishomingo, Oklahoma, consider stopping at Blue River Campsites. Arrive early to ensure a spot at this popular free camping site in Oklahoma. Bring a pole and fish at one of the several water access points. However, you will need an Oklahoma fishing license.
It doesn’t have great cell phone reception, so take the opportunity to relax and get away from it all. In the winter months, you can catch a glimpse of bald eagles which flock to Tishomingo’s wildlife reserve. You could also see quail, deer, turkey, rabbit, coyotes, bobcats, and raccoons.
6. Fred’s Fish Camp at Atoka Lake
Enjoy the peace and beauty at Fred’s Fish Camp at Atoka Lake. You’ll find yourself about 30 minutes from a grocery store, but also right on the lake in Stringtown, Oklahoma. Some clearings work best for tents.
Cook some dinner and enjoy an evening with your friends with the firepits. Make sure you come before the sun sets so you can scope out the best spot. Local law enforcement patrol the area at least once a day, so you don’t have to worry about safety.
7. Verdigris River
The Army Corps of Engineers maintains amazing free campgrounds, such as the Verdigris River COE campground in Oologah, Oklahoma. The sites work for tents and small campers, and you can enjoy a table and a grill. The sites sit across the river, not far from the dam.
The campground has seven sites and a sandy beach area nearby for those hoping to do a bit of sunbathing. It also has a water faucet. Reviews state that when the dam is open, the sounds of rushing water will lull you to sleep. Whether you need a quick overnight stop or stay for several days, this is a great place to do some free camping in Oklahoma.
Pro Tip: If free camping in Oklahoma is up your alley, also check out the best free camping spots in Texas.
Get Off the Beaten Path with Free Camping in Oklahoma
While you can find many great and well-rated paid camping spots in Oklahoma, sometimes you can find great options without a fee. Exploring free camping options can help you experience new places and keep it budget-friendly.
Whether you want forests and trees, prairies, or desert-like landscapes, you can find them in Oklahoma. With wide-open skies and excellent weather, you’ll wonder why you didn’t visit The Sooner State sooner.
Have you found any unbeatable free camping in Oklahoma? We’d love to hear from you!
