Cedar Lake (Oklahoma)
4.56152 reviewsCEDAR LAKE CAMPGROUND, 51663 CEDAR LAKE ROAD, HODGEN, OK 24939
Cedar Lake (Oklahoma)
$15.00 - $40.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$15.00
Hookup Site Fee$20.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$35.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range depending on site type: $15 for standard non-electric, $20 for equestrian electric sites, $25 for standard electric, $35 for group electric sites, and $40 for premium equestrian sites. Discounts may apply for Interagency Pass holders.
About this campground
Nestled within the sprawling Ouachita National Forest, Cedar Lake Campground beckons adventurers of every stripe. Whether you arrive on horseback to explore our dedicated equestrian trails, gather your extended family for a lakeside reunion, or seek solitude at a primitive backcountry site, you'll discover your perfect basecamp here. Miles of scenic trails wind through ancient forests, while the shimmering waters of Cedar Lake invite paddlers and anglers to cast their cares away. Wildlife enthusiasts will delight in spotting deer at dawn, watching eagles soar overhead, and listening to the evening chorus of owls and whippoorwills.
Cedar Lake Campground offers a range of camping options including equestrian, group, and individual sites with varying amenities.
Historical SignificanceYour camping adventure sits at the crossroads of ancient mysteries and frontier heritage. Just a short drive away, the enigmatic Heavener Runestone stands as a testament to pre-Columbian visitors, its carved symbols still sparking debate among historians. The nearby Talimena National Scenic Byway traces paths once traveled by Native American tribes and brave pioneers, offering breathtaking vistas and interpretive stops that bring centuries of human stories to life. Each trail you hike connects you to generations who found sustenance, shelter, and spiritual renewal in these timeless mountains.
Weather and SeasonsSpring arrives like a gentle whisper through the pines, bringing mild days perfect for hiking and crisp nights around the campfire. As summer unfolds, warm sunshine filters through the canopy while lake breezes offer natural air conditioning. Autumn transforms the landscape into a painter's palette of crimson and gold, with comfortable temperatures that make it our most popular season. Even winter treats visitors kindly here, with moderate temperatures that rarely dip below freezing, allowing year-round exploration under crystal-clear skies.
ElevationPerched at 900 feet above sea level, Cedar Lake Campground enjoys the sweet spot of mountain camping—high enough to catch cooling breezes and command spectacular views across rolling ridgelines, yet accessible enough for comfortable year-round visits. This gentle elevation gifts campers with moderate temperatures that feel just right, whether you're sipping morning coffee while watching mist rise from the valleys below or stargazing from heights that bring you closer to the cosmos.
Natural Features and SceneryA tapestry of towering pines and majestic hardwoods creates a living cathedral around Cedar Lake Campground, where shafts of sunlight dance through the canopy to illuminate the forest floor. The centerpiece Cedar Lake mirrors the sky and surrounding peaks, its calm waters reflecting clouds by day and stars by night. Come autumn, nature stages its grandest performance as oaks, maples, and hickories burst into flames of scarlet, amber, and gold—a spectacle that draws photographers and nature lovers from across the region. Mountain vistas unfold at every turn, revealing the ancient, weathered beauty of the Ouachita range.
Geological RegionYour camping destination lies within the magnificent Ouachita National Forest, a 1.8-million-acre wilderness kingdom stretching across the highlands of southeast Oklahoma and central Arkansas. These ancient mountains, among the oldest in North America, rise and fall in dramatic waves of forested ridges and hidden valleys. Unlike most North American ranges that run north-south, the Ouachitas march boldly east to west, creating unique ecosystems and microclimates. Crystal-clear mountain lakes dot the landscape like jewels, formed by both natural processes and careful conservation efforts, offering pristine waters for recreation and reflection amid this vast forest sanctuary.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible campsites and picnic shelters are available. Users with disabilities have reported challenges due to high weeds and limited bank accessibility for fishing.
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size. North Shore tent sites are spacious, while some campers noted that Sandy Beach sites were smaller than expected.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is mixed. Some sites are secluded near the lake, while others are closely spaced.
Total Campsites86 campsites
Recommended CampsitesEquestrian loops are ideal for horseback riders; North Shore tent sites for privacy and lake views.
Best CampsitesNorth Shore tent sites are praised for spaciousness and proximity to the lake. Equestrian sites are well-equipped with pens and utilities.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
14 nights maximum per rolling 30-day period.
Groups
Group sites are spacious and ideal for gatherings. One user noted that Group Site 2 is great for tents and hammocks.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutConsists of multiple loops, including Shady Lane (electric/sewer), Sandy Beach (electric), and North Shore (primitive).
Open and Closed SeasonOpen February 1 to December 31 annually.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov, mobile apps, or the campground's contact number.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served sites are available, but availability may be limited during peak seasons.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee, and late cancellations also forfeit the first night's fee. Refunds are allowed for emergencies, medical issues, or extreme weather events.
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
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Cedar Lake offers diverse recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy fishing, hiking, swimming, boating, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing. "The campground is a starting point for the Winding Stair Mountain Equestrian Trails, with over 70 miles of marked trails." The lake’s trail provides scenic views, and designated swimming areas enhance the experience.
Hiking
Hiking trails include a loop around Cedar Lake and the nearby Winding Stair Mountain Equestrian Trails. "The trails are well-marked and range from easy to moderate."Fishing
Fishing is popular, with bass and crappie frequently caught. "Fishing piers are available and the lake is motor-free, which enhances the experience."Swimming
A designated swimming area adds to the fun. Some users highlighted its cleanliness and family-friendly atmosphere.Biking
Biking is possible on paved roads and trails surrounding the lake. No specific trail descriptions were given.Boating
Boating is motor-free, limited to 7.5 horsepower. "This makes the lake quiet and ideal for kayaking and canoeing."Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as birds and deer can often be seen. "Many campers enjoyed the peaceful nature and the opportunity to see wildlife."Winter Activities
No winter-specific recreational activities were mentioned.Water Sports
Kayaking and canoeing are popular due to the motor-free lake environment.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Allowed only in designated fire rings; firewood must be local to avoid transporting pests.
- Quiet hours are strictly enforced from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife encounters (including ticks, chiggers, and snakes) and blue-green algae blooms in the lake seasonally.
Active alertsNone reported.
Weather forecast
69
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 88%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 5.9 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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
Closest hospital and emergency services are located in Heavener, OK, approximately 14 miles away. Police presence and ranger stations nearby include the Oklahoma Ranger District office.
Good to know
Peak season datesFall foliage season from late October to early November is particularly popular.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available, and the grounds were described as well-maintained. Campers noted the absence of recycling bins.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on Cedar Lake, with access to a boat ramp, fishing piers, and swimming areas.
Common complaintsComplaints include maintenance issues like high grass around sites, restroom closures, and occasional electric outages.
HostCamp hosts are generally described as friendly and helpful, although some reviews mention inconsistency in presence or attentiveness.
Campground Map
CEDAR LAKE CAMPGROUND, 51663 CEDAR LAKE ROAD, HODGEN, OK 24939
Driving directionsFrom Poteau, OK, take U.S. Highway 59 south approximately 22 miles to Holson Valley Road (10 miles south of Heavener). Turn right (west) onto Holson Valley Road and travel approximately 2.5 miles. Turn right (north) onto Cedar Lake Road and travel 1 mile to the camp boundary. From Talihina, OK, take U.S. Highway 271 east toward Poteau for 11 miles. Turn right (east) onto Holson Valley Road and travel 19 miles to Cedar Lake Road. Turn left onto Cedar Lake Road.
The road leading to the campground includes paved sections and is accessible year-round. Narrow sections and winding turns may present challenges for larger vehicles.Nearby places
Heavener, OK (14 miles, approximately 30 minutes)
Poteau, OK (22 miles, approximately 40 minutes)
Talihina, OK (21 miles, approximately 40 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Heavener, OK, located less than 30 minutes away.
Camper Reviews
4.6
152 reviews
Cedar Lake (Oklahoma) is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, Cedar Lake Campground is highly praised for its clean facilities, peaceful setting, and well-maintained trails. However, reviews also highlight recurring maintenance issues, such as broken showers and high grass during certain seasons.
Review Summaries
Based on 152 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean restrooms and showers, well-marked trails, scenic lake views, and friendly camp hosts are commonly mentioned as highlights.
Based on 152 reviewsCommon Concerns
Users frequently complain about maintenance issues such as non-functional showers, high grass, and broken facilities. Some also expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of cell service.
Based on 152 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing orange clothing during hunting seasons and preparing for limited cell service. Equestrian campers should ensure Coggins test paperwork is ready.
Based on 152 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Fall is particularly popular due to the scenic foliage. Summer sees more crowding, particularly in swimming areas.
Based on 152 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Facilities usually open include hot showers and fresh water." "Very beautiful and peaceful, surrounded by mountains and in the middle is the lake." "The campgrounds were nice, but difficult to find."
Based on 152 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Several reviews highlighted specific sites: Group Site 2 is spacious and ideal for gatherings, while Sandy Beach sites received mixed reviews for site size and maintenance.
Based on 152 reviewsAccessibility Features
Mixed feedback on accessibility. While bathrooms and showers were praised, high weeds and limited access to fishing banks were noted as challenges.
Based on 152 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Cedar Lake Campground is pet-friendly, with users commenting positively on the ability to bring dogs.
Based on 152 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025