Burns Run East
4.32274 reviews525 East Burns Run Road, Cartwright, OK 74731, USA
Burns Run East
$16.00 - $50.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$28.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$50.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $16 per night during the non-peak season for standard electric sites to $50 per night for group shelters during both peak and off-peak seasons.
About this campground
Nestled along the southeastern shores of Lake Texoma, Burns Run East Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with 47 scenic campsites tucked into Oklahoma's enchanting Cross Timbers Region. Whether you're casting a line for the legendary striped bass, launching your boat into crystal waters, tracking wildlife through ancient oak forests, or simply savoring the chorus of songbirds at dawn, this lakeside retreat promises unforgettable adventures for every type of nature lover.
Burns Run East provides options for tent camping, RV camping, and group camping. The campground features 47 sites, with various hookups and amenities. Tent sites near the beach offer a secluded experience, while RV sites provide full hookups and concrete pads.
Historical SignificanceWelcome to the legendary 'Playground of the Southwest,' where Lake Texoma reigns as the undisputed 'Striper Capital of the World.' This magnificent reservoir, born from the historic Denison Dam project, has transformed the landscape into a recreational paradise while preserving two pristine wildlife refuges. Here, generations of families have created memories, anglers have landed trophy catches, and the spirit of American outdoor recreation thrives alongside protected natural habitats.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of Oklahoma's seasons at Burns Run East, where balmy summer days invite endless water activities and cool autumn breezes paint the oak forests in brilliant golds and russets. Spring arrives with wildflower blooms and perfect hiking weather, while winter brings crisp, peaceful mornings ideal for wildlife watching. Note that water services are winterized after November, ensuring the campground's facilities remain protected during the colder months.
ElevationThe gently rolling terrain of Burns Run East creates an ever-changing tapestry of views across Lake Texoma, with campsites positioned to capture both sunrise reflections on the water and sunset glow through the oak canopy.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where ancient post and blackjack oaks create cathedral-like canopies above your campsite, their gnarled branches home to hawks by day and owls by night. The rolling hills reveal surprise vistas of Lake Texoma's sparkling waters, while the understory rustles with white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and the occasional glimpse of a bobcat on the prowl. Each season brings its own spectacular show - from spring warblers filling the air with song to winter waterfowl painting the sky in magnificent formations.
Geological RegionBurns Run East sits proudly in Oklahoma's distinctive Cross Timbers Region, where centuries-old post and blackjack oak forests march across rolling hills to meet the southeastern shores of Lake Texoma. This unique ecological transition zone, where eastern forests blend with western prairies, creates a rich tapestry of habitats that has captivated naturalists and outdoor enthusiasts for generations. The rugged beauty of this ancient landscape, sculpted by time and weather, provides the perfect backdrop for your lakeside camping adventure.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features include the availability of concrete pads, level sites, and covered picnic tables, which make it easier for all visitors, including those with mobility challenges, to enjoy their stay.
Sites SizeSites are reported as spacious and well-laid-out. Concrete pads are available for RVs, and tent sites near the sandy beach offer secluded options. Several reviews mention large sites with ample room for RVs and additional vehicles.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies depending on the site. Tent camping near the beach is noted for its seclusion, while some RV sites are more exposed. Concrete pads offer defined spaces, but some users felt that tree removal reduced privacy.
Total Campsites47 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites 10, 11, and 12 are recommended for tent campers. Sites 34 and 35 are favored by RV campers for full hookups and water views.
Best CampsitesSite 12 is frequently praised for its proximity to water and views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
6:00 PM
Check-out
4:00 PM
Stay Limit
Up to 14 nights within a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Exact guest limits per site are not detailed.
Groups
Group picnic shelter with electricity available for day use, not designated for overnight camping.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes 47 sites, with 44 offering hookups. Sites are spaced out but lack significant tree cover.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from March 1 to December 31, with peak season from March to November.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov, including online, via app, or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites offer walk-up availability but details on the number of sites or fill patterns are unavailable.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled at any time before the scheduled arrival date. A $10 cancellation fee applies, and late cancellations also forfeit the first night's use fee.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Burns Run East offers a variety of recreational activities. The lake is known as the 'Striper Capital of the World,' attracting anglers to its naturally reproducing striped bass population. Other activities include boating, water skiing, swimming, birding, and hiking. The Cross Timbers hiking trail provides a challenging 14-mile route above the lake, while equestrian trails extend for 40 miles around the area. Beach-related activities are popular but are affected by the cleanliness of the beach, with some areas featuring broken glass and debris.
Hiking
The Cross Timbers hiking trail is a highlight, stretching for 14 miles and offering views from rocky ledges through blackjack woodland. It is a popular choice for hikers seeking scenic and challenging routes.Fishing
Fishing is a major draw at Lake Texoma, known for its striped bass population. Other fish species include largemouth and smallmouth bass, white and black crappie, and catfish varieties. One user noted capturing 'several delicious striped bass right in front of our camper.'Swimming
Swimming areas are available, but reviews about the beach conditions are mixed. Users have mentioned broken glass and goathead stickers in the grass, cautioning against going barefoot.Boating
Boating is a popular activity, with facilities including two boat ramps and a dock. Kayaking and exploring nearby islands are also enjoyed by campers. A user noted, 'We kayaked to an island that had a beach which we had all to ourselves.'Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as deer, turkeys, bobcats, hawks, waterfowl, and songbirds are abundant in the area. Birding along the shoreline is particularly enjoyed, as mentioned by several visitors.Beach activities
Beach-related activities are popular, including sunbathing and playing along the sandy shoreline, though issues with debris have been noted. One user described the sunsets as 'gorgeous.'Winter Activities
During the winter months, individual water hookups are turned off, but frost-free hydrants are available. Winter camping is possible and includes electricity hookups.Water Sports
Kayaking, canoeing, and other non-motorized water sports are mentioned by campers, with easy access to launch points.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed, but firewood must be sourced locally to prevent tree-killing pests.
Hazards
General hazardsSeasonal flooding, broken glass on beaches, fire ants near hookups, and occasional thefts reported by users.
Active alertsWater hookups are shut off after November during winter months.
Weather forecast
87
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 53%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 13.2 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Clear sky
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
Closest emergency services include hospitals in Denison, TX (approximately 6 miles away), police services in Cartwright, OK, and occasional patrols by game wardens and park rangers.
Good to know
Peak season datesMarch 1, 2025 - November 30, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, but specific locations and pickup schedules are not detailed. Users expressed dissatisfaction with the presence of debris such as cigarette butts and broken glass in some areas.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on Lake Texoma, with boat ramps, docks, and a sandy beach.
Common complaintsComplaints about unmaintained bathrooms, lack of shady spots due to tree removal, broken glass on beaches, and disruptive noise from campers.
HostOccasional visibility of park hosts and rangers. Some positive reviews highlight helpful hosts.
Campground Map
525 East Burns Run Road, Cartwright, OK 74731, USA
Driving directionsFrom Highway 75 in Denison, Texas, take Exit 72 to Highway 91. Travel north on 91 across Denison Dam for 5 miles and take the first exit left.
The campground is accessible via paved roads and is near major highways. Entrance gates operate from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Seasonal water shutdowns may affect accessibility.Nearby places
Denison, TX (approximately 6 miles, 10 minutes)
Sherman, TX (approximately 15 miles, 20 minutes)
Durant, OK (approximately 16 miles, 20 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Restaurants and stores are available 0.5 miles from the campground, including basic groceries, camping supplies, and fuel options.
Camper Reviews
4.3
274 reviews
Burns Run East is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Burns Run East receives mixed reviews, with positive highlights including spacious and well-maintained sites, beautiful lake views, and good fishing opportunities. Common complaints address issues like maintenance of bathrooms, noise regulations, lack of shade trees, and debris on the beach.
Review Summaries
Based on 274 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects mentioned by users include spacious sites with well-maintained concrete pads, beautiful views of the lake, quiet nights, accessible boat ramps, and friendly staff and volunteers. One...
Based on 274 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include unclean bathrooms, lack of shade due to tree removal, noise disturbances, and insufficient communication about water cutoffs during winter months. Several users mentioned debris...
Based on 274 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend booking sites with full hookups for convenience and choosing weekdays for quieter stays. One user advised, 'Do not go swimming without shoes,' due to debris on the beach.
Based on 274 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews highlight the popularity of the camping and boating facilities but note crowded conditions and noise. Winter reviews focus on the availability of frost-free water hydrants and...
Based on 274 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
Multiple users provided vivid insights: 'The sunsets are gorgeous,' 'Kayaked to an island that had a beach all to ourselves,' 'The new concrete pads are amazing!' and 'Always a nice and pleasurable...
Based on 274 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific feedback mentions site #12 as a favorite for its proximity to the water, site #34 and #35 for full hookups and great views, and site #41 for spaciousness and shade. Negative points...
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Accessibility Features
Concrete pads and covered picnic tables contribute to accessibility. However, reviews did not explicitly address experiences from users with disabilities.
Based on 274 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Several reviews raised concerns about uncontrolled and barking dogs, particularly during late hours. A user noted, 'There were several pet dogs in the camp. Most were on leash and well-behaved; one...
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Last updated August 10, 2025