Hawthorn Bluff
4.37248 reviews8377 E. Hwy 88, OOLOGAH, OK, 74053, USA
Hawthorn Bluff
$16.00 - $50.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$22.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$16.00
Group Site Fee$50.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Peak season facilities range from $16 (Tent Only Nonelectric) to $50 (Group Shelter Electric). Reservation service fees apply: $8 online/app, $9 contact center, $3 in-person.
About this campground
Perched on the shores of sprawling Oologah Lake, Hawthorn Bluff Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of modern comfort and natural beauty. This expansive lakeside retreat features everything from electric hookups for RV travelers to group shelters perfect for family reunions, all centered around a charming amphitheater where evening programs bring the community together under starlit skies.
Hawthorn Bluff accommodates various camping styles, including tent camping, RV camping, and group camping.
Historical SignificanceJust a short drive from your campsite lies a piece of American heritage at Dog Iron Ranch, the birthplace of beloved humorist Will Rogers. This living history museum brings the past to life, offering campers a chance to step back in time and explore the roots of Oklahoma's most famous son, adding a rich cultural dimension to your outdoor adventure.
Weather and SeasonsTime your visit perfectly to experience Hawthorn Bluff at its finest. While summer brings warm days ideal for lake activities despite the humidity, savvy campers know that fall and spring unlock the area's true magic. These shoulder seasons deliver crisp, dry air and comfortable temperatures that make hiking the oak-studded trails and enjoying evening campfires absolutely perfect.
ElevationNestled at a gentle elevation that provides sweeping views across Oologah Lake's shimmering waters.
Natural Features and SceneryWake up to the gentle flow of the Verdigris River as it feeds into Oologah Lake, creating a water wonderland framed by majestic old-growth oak forests. These ancient post oaks and blackjack oaks provide a canopy of shade and serve as home to an abundance of wildlife. Keep your camera ready for close encounters with white-tailed deer grazing at dawn, wild turkeys strutting through camp, and a symphony of songbirds that provide nature's soundtrack to your stay.
Geological RegionHawthorn Bluff sits within the remarkable Oologah Lake region, where the Verdigris River has carved out a recreational paradise spanning nearly 30,000 acres. The landscape tells a story written in ancient post oak and blackjack oak forests that have stood sentinel for generations. This vast aquatic ecosystem creates a mosaic of habitats, from secluded coves to open water vistas, supporting an incredible diversity of wildlife that makes every visit a new adventure.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible group facilities include picnic shelters and amphitheaters accommodating up to 100 guests. One review mentions a handicap-accessible site needing improvements for better usability.
Sites SizeSites vary in length and width, with some users highlighting issues with leveling on sloped sites.
Sites PrivacySites offer limited privacy due to proximity to each other; waterfront sites are more secluded.
Total Campsites233506 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 11 (playground adjacent) is suitable for families while waterfront sites like 25 offer scenic views. Leveling challenges persist across many sites.
Best CampsitesSites with waterfront views and shaded areas are most desirable. Site-specific recommendations vary significantly.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
6:00 PM
Check-out
4:00 PM
Stay Limit
Up to 14 consecutive nights during a visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Varies by site type.
Groups
Two group picnic shelters and an amphitheater can host up to 100 guests and 50 vehicles.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutLarge campground divided into loops (A-LO and B-LO). Amphitheater and gazebo are highlights.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season: April 1 - October 30 for reservations. Group and individual sites operate on a 6-month rolling basis for booking.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available via Recreation.gov (website and mobile app).
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not explicitly stated; reservations are highly recommended during peak season.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made prior to arrival with a $10 fee. Late cancellations will forfeit the first night's fee. Additional penalties apply for group or day-use facility cancellations.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Hawthorn Bluff provides a diverse range of activities, including hiking, fishing, boating, swimming, and wildlife viewing. There are also opportunities for cultural and educational experiences at nearby attractions.
Hiking
The campground features nature trails with scenic views and varied difficulty levels. Reviewers mentioned enjoying trails around the cove and bluffs.Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Fishing
Fishing is highly popular, with species such as black bass, crappie, and paddlefish available. A dedicated fishing dock is present, but user reviews note occasional overcrowding by non-campers.Swimming
A designated swim beach is available, though some reviews mention its distance from campsites.Boating
Boating and sailing are popular activities, with several boat ramps and docks available. Some users suggested adding boat slips for improved convenience.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife sightings include deer, turkey, raccoons, and armadillos. Fireflies are a highlight during summer evenings.Beach activities
Beach activities include swimming and sunbathing. Users noted the swim area as a bit distant from campsites.Cultural and Educational Programs
Nearby Dog Iron Ranch offers historical and educational programs, including access to Will Rogers' birthplace.Winter Activities
Limited winter activities, as the campground partially closes during off-season.Water Sports
Water skiing and kayaking are popular, with users appreciating the clean lake and well-maintained facilities.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires permitted in designated fire rings. Firewood should be purchased locally to prevent pests.
- Quiet hours enforced but inconsistently maintained according to reviews.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include uneven terrain, raccoons, and occasional copperhead sightings. Wild behavior and drainage issues during heavy storms are noted.
Active alertsNo current alerts provided beyond user complaints about maintenance, water, and gate policies.
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 74%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 8.3 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
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
The nearest emergency services include hospitals and clinics located in Claremore (~15 miles) and Tulsa (~30 miles). Police and fire services are available in Oologah (~2 miles). Emergency contact numbers are not explicitly listed.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 01 - October 30.
Trash and recyclingTrash cans and recycling facilities are available but could be more evenly distributed throughout the campground according to user feedback.
Proximity to water featuresCampground surrounds Oologah Lake, offering fishing docks, boating ramps, and swimming access. Waterfront sites provide direct lake access.
Common complaintsRecurring complaints include water spigot distance, site leveling issues, and outdated facilities.
HostHosts are generally helpful, but inconsistent attention to maintenance and guest needs is noted in reviews.
Campground Map
8377 E. Hwy 88, OOLOGAH, OK, 74053, USA
Driving directionsFrom Tulsa, Oklahoma, take U.S. Highway 169 north for 27 miles to Highway 88. The campground is 2 miles east of the town of Oologah on Highway 88.
The campground is easily accessible via major highways. Roads are paved and suitable for all vehicle types. However, entrance gate access times are restricted: 6 AM - 10 PM from April through October, and 6 AM - 8 PM from November through March.Nearby places
Tulsa (~30 miles, ~35 minutes), Claremore (~15 miles, ~20 minutes), Oologah (~2 miles, ~5 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are available in Oologah (~2 miles), including groceries, fuel, and camping essentials. Larger shopping options are available in Claremore (~15 miles) and Tulsa (~30 miles).
Camper Reviews
4.4
248 reviews
Hawthorn Bluff is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Hawthorn Bluff are mixed, with many praising the scenic beauty, clean facilities, and friendly staff. Issues highlighted include leveling challenges, shared water spigots, and occasional maintenance lapses.
Review Summaries
Based on 248 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive feedback emphasizes clean bathrooms, beautiful lake views, outdoor activities like fishing and hiking, and helpful campground hosts.
Based on 248 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints include sloped and unlevel campsites, lack of water hookups at most sites, overcrowding on fishing docks, and inconsistent enforcement of rules like pet leashing.
Based on 248 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing extra hoses for water spigots, chocks for leveling, and securing food to avoid raccoon invasions. Weekday stays offer quieter experiences.
Based on 248 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Fall is highly recommended for its scenic beauty and fewer crowds. Spring offers good fishing opportunities. Winter has limited access due to partial closures.
Based on 248 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The campground is peaceful and well-maintained." "Bring a long hose for water spigots." "Beautiful lake views but difficult leveling." "The showers are clean and a major plus." "The fishing dock is...
Based on 248 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific feedback includes issues like sloped sites (e.g., Site 21), proximity to playgrounds (Site 11), and scenic views at waterfront locations like Sites 25 and 33.
Based on 248 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility feedback includes suggestions for improving handicap-accessible sites, such as widening pads and relocating tables.
Based on 248 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Mixed pet-related reviews highlight issues with unleashed dogs despite rules requiring leashing. The campground allows pets under 6-foot leashes.
Based on 248 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025