Mcfadden Cove
4.1537 reviews9400 Lake Road, Ponca City, OK, 74604
Mcfadden Cove
$18.00 - $22.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$22.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The nightly fee for campsites ranges from $18 to $22 depending on the season. Fees do not include taxes or additional reservation fees charged by Recreation.gov.
About this campground
Nestled along the serene banks of north-central Oklahoma's Kaw Lake, McFadden Cove offers an intimate camping experience where prairie meets water. This hidden gem provides modern conveniences with electric and water hookups while maintaining a rustic charm with vault toilets. A convenient boat ramp connects you directly to the lake's vast waters, making it a beloved basecamp for anglers chasing trophy catches and hunters exploring the surrounding wilderness. Despite its modest size, the campground delivers big on outdoor adventure and lakeside tranquility.
McFadden Cove is a versatile campground catering to both tent and RV campers. It offers standard electric sites with water hookups, accommodating a range of camping preferences.
Historical SignificanceCamp where history runs deep beneath your feet. This land once echoed with the footsteps of Native American communities whose archaeological treasures still dot the region. Just a short drive away, the Pioneer Woman Museum celebrates the resilient spirit of frontier families who transformed these prairies into thriving communities. Every sunset over Kaw Lake connects you to generations of people who have found sustenance, shelter, and stories along these shores.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full drama of Oklahoma's seasons at McFadden Cove, where summer temperatures soar above 100°F, perfect for cooling off in the lake's refreshing waters. Winter brings crisp, dry days ideal for bundling up around evening campfires. The region's moderate rainfall keeps the landscape vibrant, while occasional prairie winds remind you of the wide-open spaces that define this heartland destination. Each season paints the campground in different colors, from spring wildflowers to autumn's golden grasses.
ElevationWhile specific elevation data remains elusive, McFadden Cove rests comfortably in Oklahoma's gently rolling prairie landscape, where the horizon stretches endlessly and the big sky dominates the view.
Natural Features and SceneryWake up to panoramic views across Kaw Lake's impressive 17,000 surface acres, where morning mist dances across the water and sunset paints the sky in brilliant oranges and purples. Mature shade trees provide natural canopies throughout the campground, offering cool refuges from the prairie sun. The shoreline environment creates a perfect habitat for diverse wildlife—watch for deer at dawn, eagles soaring overhead, and waterfowl skimming the lake's surface. This harmonious blend of prairie grasslands and expansive waterway creates an ever-changing canvas of natural beauty.
Geological RegionMcFadden Cove sits in the heart of north-central Oklahoma's captivating landscape, where ancient geological forces carved rolling prairies that now cradle the magnificent Kaw Lake. This 17,000-acre aquatic playground boasts 168 miles of intricate shoreline, creating countless coves, points, and hidden bays waiting to be explored. The region's unique topography tells a story millions of years in the making, where prairie winds and water have sculpted a recreational paradise from the Oklahoma earth.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes accessible features such as accessible drinking water, pit toilets, a scenic overlook, boat ramp, parking, picnic shelters, grills, and campsites, making it more accommodating for individuals with disabilities.
Sites SizeThe campsites are described as spacious by some reviewers. "Nice big campsites," noted one user, while others appreciated the large site sizes.
Sites PrivacyMost sites offer reasonable spacing, with some reviewers highlighting that the sites are not crammed together. "Nice layout not crammed against the next RV," noted one user. However, others mentioned that certain improvements could make the sites more user-friendly.
Total Campsites15 campsites
Recommended CampsitesReviews suggest choosing campsites with level pads for safety, avoiding spots like site 8, which is reported to have steep drop-offs.
Best CampsitesSeveral reviews highlight campsite 13 for its size and shade, campsite 7 for proximity to the water, and campsite 15 for its layout.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in is at 14:00 (2 PM).
Check-out
Check-out is at 12:00 (noon).
Stay Limit
The maximum stay limit is 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
One RV and one tent or two tents per campsite.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground has 15 campsites with paved pads. Some sites have uneven surfaces, making them challenging for RV leveling.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season is March 1 through November 29. The facility is closed for reservations outside these dates.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov, including online and via their mobile app.
Walk-in AvailabilityAlthough reservations are required, reviews indicate some dissatisfaction with the lack of walk-up availability, as previously operated as first-come-first-served.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled any time before the arrival date with a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations incur additional fees, including forfeiture of the first night's use fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
McFadden Cove offers a variety of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. Being situated along Kaw Lake, it is particularly popular among anglers, hunters, and bird watchers. The area provides opportunities for boating and fishing, hunting large game, and observing migratory birds.
Fishing
Fishing is a highlight of McFadden Cove, as the lake and river are known for producing some of Oklahoma's largest catfish, along with crappie, white bass, and walleye. The fishing opportunities attract anglers year-round.Boating
Boating is a popular activity at McFadden Cove due to its proximity to Kaw Lake. A boat ramp is conveniently located near the campground, making it easy for campers to launch their boats.Wildlife viewing
The area is excellent for wildlife viewing. During the fall, large numbers of migrating ducks and geese can be seen, and in the winter, visitors may spot bald eagles, as Kaw Lake hosts one of the largest populations in Oklahoma.Winter Activities
Winter visitors may enjoy bird watching, especially for bald eagles, which migrate to Kaw Lake and form one of the state's largest populations.Water Sports
The campground supports water sports such as boating and fishing, with easy lake access via the nearby boat ramp.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed, but firewood should be sourced locally to prevent pest damage.
- Quiet hours are enforced, as described in user reviews indicating a peaceful environment.
Hazards
General hazardsSeveral reviews mention uneven campsite pads and limited accessibility for campers with mobility issues. The proximity to water may attract insects during warmer months.
Weather forecast
70
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 73%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 9.1 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Partly cloudy
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services are located in Ponca City, which includes medical facilities, police stations, and fire departments.
Good to know
Peak season datesMarch 1 to November 29.
Trash and recyclingTrash cans are frequently emptied, according to user reviews, but no dedicated recycling facilities were mentioned. "Staff cleaning the bathrooms often, emptying trash cans often," noted one camper.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on Kaw Lake, providing access to boating, fishing, and wildlife observation opportunities.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include uneven campsite pads, a lack of onsite dump stations, narrow sites, and the absence of showers.
HostHosts are described as cordial and helpful by multiple reviewers. They assist with issues such as site assignments and maintaining cleanliness.
Campground Map
9400 Lake Road, Ponca City, OK, 74604
Driving directionsFrom Ponca City, Oklahoma, travel 7 miles east on Lake Road. Turn north on to McFadden Cove Road and the campground is on the immediate right. If you cross the dam, you've gone too far.
The campground is accessible via paved roads, with clear signage directing travelers from Ponca City. Roads are well-maintained and suitable for most vehicles.Nearby places
Ponca City (7 miles, approximately 10 minutes), Stillwater (40 miles, approximately 50 minutes), Tulsa (88 miles, approximately 1.5 hours)
Nearby supplies
The Hideaway Marina is nearby and provides essential supplies such as ice and bait. For additional groceries and camping supplies, Ponca City offers a range of options including supermarkets and fuel stations.
Camper Reviews
4.2
37 reviews
Mcfadden Cove is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for McFadden Cove are mixed, with many praising its cleanliness, quiet atmosphere, and proximity to lake activities. However, issues like uneven campsite surfaces and the lack of showers were frequently noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 37 reviews
What Campers Love
Many users appreciated the campground's clean facilities and spacious sites. The proximity to Kaw Lake and the presence of water and electric hookups at all sites were also highlighted. "Beautiful...
Based on 37 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
The lack of a dump station and showers were common complaints. Uneven campsite surfaces also posed challenges for some campers. "The most disappointing part there wasn't a dump station nearby," noted...
Based on 37 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing a water pressure regulator due to strong water pressure and planning ahead for waste disposal, as the closest dump station is 4 to 4.5 miles away. "Lots of water pressure,...
Based on 37 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Fall and winter are noted for excellent bird-watching opportunities, including migrating ducks, geese, and bald eagles. Summer reviews frequently mention the beneficial shade provided by trees during...
Based on 37 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Nice park. Was very quiet the weekend we were there." "The campsite itself was great! We had a very pleasant time." "Not everyone has a smartphone! Bring back self-pay envelopes." "Beautiful nice...
Based on 37 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 8 was criticized for being uneven and difficult to navigate, especially for campers with mobility issues. Site 7 was noted for its narrow layout and close proximity to trees. Site 13 was praised...
Based on 37 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Some users with mobility challenges found certain campsites difficult to navigate due to uneven surfaces. "The sites are a real danger to children and adults who have mobility issues," noted one...
Based on 37 reviewsShow more
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed at McFadden Cove, but no specific reviews addressed pet-related features or policies.
Based on 37 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025