If you’re seeking an adventure in nature, our next stop should definitely be Lake Murray State Park camping in Oklahoma. As Oklahoma’s first and largest state park, Lake Murray offers stunning landscapes, engaging activities, and a variety of camping options that cater to every kind of outdoor enthusiast. Whether we prefer RV camping, setting up a tent, or staying in cozy cabins, there’s something here for all of us to enjoy.
Imagine waking up to a lakeside sunrise, grabbing our fishing gear, and heading out for a peaceful morning on the water. From fishing and boating to hiking and biking, Lake Murray State Park promises an unforgettable escape into nature’s beauty. Don’t miss out on the many campgrounds, complete with playgrounds, swim beaches, and more for a perfect family outing.
With easy online reservations for camping spots and cabins, planning our trip couldn’t be more convenient. And let’s not forget the added perks of golf, ATV trails, and scenic drives around the park. So, pack your bags and join us for an exciting adventure at Lake Murray State Park.
Choosing Your Camping Experience
Let’s explore the options Lake Murray State Park offers campers. Whether you prefer the comfort of an RV, the coziness of a cabin, or the simplicity of a tent, you will find a spot that suits your needs.
RV Sites
If you love camping in your RV, Lake Murray State Park has you covered with several RV sites. With pull-through sites, parking is a breeze, and there are many amenities. Each spot has electrical and water hookups for your convenience.
These sites often come with picnic tables and fire rings, perfect for evening barbecues. Shade trees around many of the sites help to keep cool during hot summer days. The park also offers waste disposal stations to make your stay cleaner and more comfortable. It’s great for those of us who enjoy a bit more comfort while camping!
Cabins
Lake Murray State Park has multiple cabins spread throughout the area. These range from rustic to more modern lodges. Cabins include basic amenities like beds, kitchens, and bathrooms, which make them perfect for those who prefer a home-like setting.
Staying in a cabin allows us to enjoy the beautiful nature without worrying about setting up a tent or driving an RV. If you’re looking for a little extra luxury while still enjoying the outdoors, cabins could be the ideal choice. They’re also great for families or groups who need more space and privacy.
Tent Camping
For those who love the traditional camping experience, tent campsites at Lake Murray are an excellent choice. These areas are often located closer to scenic hiking trails and the lake, offering beautiful views and immediate access to nature.
Most tents camping sites come with basics like picnic tables and fire pits, which makes it easy to cook meals and enjoy campfires. There are also shaded areas that help keep our campsite cool. Since tent sites are usually less expensive than cabins or RV sites, they are fantastic for budget-friendly adventures.
Amenities and Facilities
Lake Murray State Park camping offers a variety of amenities that make our stay enjoyable and convenient. Let’s explore the essential facilities that ensure comfort and fun throughout our camping trip.
Restrooms and Showers
Clean restrooms and hot showers are vital for any camping experience. At Lake Murray State Park, we have access to well-maintained restrooms and showers. These facilities are spread across different campgrounds, providing convenience no matter where we set up our site. The restrooms are stocked regularly, and the shower stalls are kept clean. It’s reassuring to know we can freshen up any time after a day of outdoor activities.
Cooking and Dining Areas
When it comes to eating, Lake Murray State Park has us covered. Many campsites feature fire rings and picnic tables, making cooking over an open flame easy and enjoyable. For those who prefer modern conveniences, several sites also offer electric hookups and water hookups. These features allow us to use electric grills or other appliances, bringing some of the comforts of home to the outdoors. Staying at one of the pavilions or designated dining areas gives us a space for group meals, which is perfect for family gatherings or meeting fellow campers.
Playgrounds and Recreational Areas
Families will love the playgrounds and recreational areas available at Lake Murray State Park. Scattered throughout the park, these playgrounds offer kids a safe place to play and make new friends. For more active fun, there’s a pool and various sports fields. Nearby trails cater to both hiking and biking enthusiasts, offering stunning views of the park’s natural beauty. The park office also offers information on other recreational activities, ensuring we make the most of our stay. There’s no shortage of ways to stay active and entertained during our camping adventure.
Lake Murray State Park caters to campers with diverse needs and interests, ensuring a memorable and comfortable stay for all.
Activities and Attractions
Lake Murray State Park offers a wide range of activities that make it a fantastic destination for outdoor enthusiasts. From boating and water sports to hiking and exploring the beautiful terrain, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Boating and Water Sports
Lake Murray State Park is famous for its crystal-clear waters, making it perfect for all kinds of water activities. The 5,728 surface acres of Lake Murray offer plenty of space for boating, jet skiing, and paddleboarding. We can rent boats right at the marina, or bring our own. Many visitors love to explore the lake’s coves and inlets, which are ideal for kayaking and canoeing.
For those of us who enjoy high-speed thrills, water skiing and tubing are popular choices. The lake’s open areas are perfect for zipping around, and the calm areas are great for a relaxing paddling session. Don’t miss the numerous docks around the park where we can easily launch our watercraft.
Fishing and Wildlife
Lake Murray is a top spot for fishing enthusiasts. The lake is well-stocked with bass, catfish, crappie, and other species, making it a great place for both casual and serious anglers. Early mornings and late evenings are generally the best times to cast a line. Remember to check for any local fishing regulations before heading out.
In addition to fishing, we can enjoy the vibrant wildlife within the park. Birdwatchers will be thrilled with the variety of species that inhabit the area, including bald eagles and owls. The park’s diverse habitat supports deer, rabbits, and other wildlife, making it a great place for a nature walk. Don’t forget to bring binoculars to get a closer look at the animals.
Hiking and Exploring
Lake Murray State Park boasts numerous trails ideal for hiking and exploring. The Buckhorn Trail is a favorite among hikers, offering picturesque views of the lake and surrounding hills. It’s perfect for both beginners and experienced hikers. Elephant Rock and Tucker Tower are iconic landmarks we shouldn’t miss.
The park also features ATV trails for those wanting a bit more adventure. The diverse terrain, with its rolling hills and forested areas, provides an exciting backdrop for exploration. Whether we’re hiking, biking, or riding ATVs, the park’s trails offer spectacular scenery and various levels of difficulty, ensuring an enjoyable experience for all.
Park Information and Reservations
Planning a trip to Lake Murray State Park? Let’s dive into the essentials: making reservations, park regulations, and the visitor services available to ensure a fantastic experience.
Making Reservations
We can reserve our spots at Lake Murray State Park through TravelOK. From camping to lodging, the process is simple.
For camping reservations, visit the Lake Murray State Park Campground site. Here, we select our dates, the number of guests, and any special rates. ADA access is available on the site for those who need it.
To avoid disappointment, call 580-223-4044 for the latest camping availability before driving long distances. Camping rates and vehicle fees per day vary, so check out the detailed information on the TravelOK website. Don’t forget about the Buzzards Roost Campground for additional camping spots.
Park Regulations
It’s essential we follow the park regulations to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable stay. Lake Murray State Park has specific rules for campers and visitors.
Camping is permitted only in designated areas. Fires are allowed in fire rings or grills. Quiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM, so let’s keep noise levels down during these times. Alcohol is prohibited in public areas.
Parking fees are now required throughout the park, so let’s be prepared to pay these. Also, all vehicles must display a valid parking permit. Fishing and boating licenses are needed if we plan to indulge in those activities.
Important Contacts:
- Park Office: 580-223-4044
- Lodge: 580-223-6600
- Golf Course: 580-223-6613
Visitor Services
The park offers various services for our convenience. The park office is open daily from 8 AM to 4:30 PM, providing all necessary help. The Nature Center and Tucker Tower are open from November to March, Wednesday through Sunday, from 9 AM to 4:30 PM.
For golf enthusiasts, the Lake Murray Golf Course operates daily from dawn to dusk. Pro shop hours are from 6:30 AM to 7:30 PM. Note, the course is closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas.
There are numerous campgrounds, beaches, and scenic spots accessible via Highway 77S. Whether we need general information, bookings, or help with reservations, Lake Murray State Park’s services ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit.
By following these guidelines and utilizing the available services, we can make the most of our camping trip to Lake Murray State Park!
Getting to Lake Murray State Park
Let’s embark on an adventure to Lake Murray State Park! This gem in Oklahoma offers a serene natural escape. Knowing how to get there and where to park ensures a smooth and enjoyable visit.
Directions and Maps
Lake Murray State Park is located at coordinates 34.0522° N, 97.0880° W. For those driving in, simply input “Lake Murray State Park” into Google Maps for accurate directions. The park address is 3323 Lodge Rd, Ardmore, OK 73401-8424, and it’s easily accessible from major highways like I-35. Whether you’re coming from the north or south, follow the signs leading to the park entrance.
The park’s vast landscape includes several entry points. You can find detailed park maps on the official website. These maps highlight all key areas, including campgrounds, trails, and amenities. Make sure to print or save these maps on your device before heading out.
Parking and Access
Upon arrival, you’ll notice clearly marked parking areas. There are daily parking fees required throughout Lake Murray State Park, and it’s vital to bring cash or a card to cover these costs. For those camping, designated parking spots are near the campsites, providing easy access to your setup.
For those walking in, several entrances allow quick entry to different sections of the park. Ensure that you park directly in the proper areas to avoid fines. If you have any concerns or need specific guidance, it’s best to contact the park directly at 580-223-4044 before making the trip, especially if driving long distances.
Happy trails, and enjoy your stay at Lake Murray State Park!
Frequently Asked Questions
We’re thrilled to explore Lake Murray State Park camping with you. Here, we’ll answer common questions about camp rates, reservations, rules, maps, entry fees, and specific areas like Buzzards Roost.
What are the rates for tent or RV camping at Lake Murray State Park?
Tent camping typically costs around $12 per night, while RV spots with electricity range from $20 to $30 per night. Rates can vary by season, so it’s always good to check the official site for the latest prices.
Can you walk me through the reservation process for a camping spot at Lake Murray State Park?
To reserve a spot, visit the Lake Murray State Park camping page and select your desired campsite. Follow the prompts to enter your details and payment information. For questions or issues, call the park directly at 580-223-4044.
Are there any specific camping rules we should be aware of when staying at Lake Murray State Park?
Make sure to follow park rules like keeping noise levels down after 10 PM, not leaving campfires unattended, and cleaning up your site before leaving. Additionally, note that there are daily parking fees now required throughout the park.
Where can I find a map of the campgrounds within Lake Murray State Park?
A campground map is available on the TravelOK.com Lake Murray State Park page. This map will help you locate campsites, facilities, and trails.
Is there a fee to enter Lake Murray State Park if we’re coming for the day?
Yes, there is a daily parking fee required throughout the park. This fee helps maintain the park’s facilities and services. Check the official Lake Murray State Park page for current fees and payment options.
Are there designated areas for camping at Buzzards Roost within Lake Murray State Park?
Yes, Buzzards Roost is a popular area within Lake Murray State Park with dedicated campsites. It’s a good idea to contact the park directly to check availability and make a reservation by calling 580-223-4044.
