Winding Stair Campground
4.4082 reviewsnull
Winding Stair Campground
$3.00 - $14.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$8.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$3.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Rates are $8 per night for single sites, $14 per night for double sites, and $3 per night for backpacker's camp. Fees are reduced when potable water is unavailable.
About this campground
Escape to the serene heights of Winding Stair Campground, where 23 secluded campsites await along the breathtaking Talimena Scenic Byway. Nestled deep within the Ouachita National Forest, this hidden gem offers adventurers direct access to the legendary 192-mile Ouachita National Recreation Trail, plus a dedicated backpacker's camp for through-hikers. While you'll find clean vault toilets throughout the grounds, the absence of potable water means you'll need to pack your own—a small trade-off for the tranquility and uncrowded atmosphere that defines this mountaintop retreat.
Winding Stair Campground caters to primitive and tent camping enthusiasts. The facilities are designed for a rugged camping experience, with no RV accommodations beyond small pull-through areas for vehicles.
Historical SignificanceYour camping adventure unfolds along the legendary Talimena Scenic Byway, a historic route that has connected travelers to the heart of the Ouachita National Forest for generations. This storied roadway and surrounding forestlands tell tales of early settlers, Native American heritage, and the conservation movement that preserved these mountains for future generations to explore and cherish.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal shifts of the Ouachita highlands, where crisp spring and autumn nights give way to warm, humidity-kissed summer days. Mountain weather can be unpredictable—powerful wind gusts sometimes sweep across the ridgeline at 50-60 mph, reminding visitors of nature's raw power. During certain seasons, you might encounter fascinating clouds of harmless walking stick insects, adding to the campground's wild character and creating memorable wildlife moments.
ElevationPerched at 1,900 feet above sea level, Winding Stair Campground offers a refreshing mountain retreat where temperatures drop several degrees below the valleys below. This elevated position not only provides natural air conditioning during summer months but also creates the perfect vantage point for watching morning mists roll through the valleys and evening sunsets paint the ridgelines in brilliant hues.
Natural Features and SceneryFrom your campsite atop the dramatic Winding Stair Mountains, sweeping vistas of the Ouachita National Forest stretch to the horizon in every direction. A canopy of mixed hardwoods and towering pines provides dappled shade throughout the day, creating a natural cathedral where sunlight filters through branches and the forest comes alive with birdsong. The ridge-top setting offers both intimate forest camping and spectacular long-range views that showcase the rugged beauty of this ancient mountain range.
Geological RegionThe campground crowns the ancient Winding Stair Mountains, a dramatic geological formation within the greater Ouachita range. These time-worn peaks, shaped by millions of years of geological forces, create a ridge-top sanctuary where campers can literally touch the clouds and experience the raw beauty of one of America's oldest mountain chains.
Campsite details
AccessibilitySome sites feature concrete around picnic tables and accessible fire pits, and the vault toilets are wheelchair-friendly. However, trail accessibility information is not specified.
Sites SizeThe campground features a mix of standard and double campsites. Each site includes a paved spur and space for tents.
Sites PrivacyThe campground offers a reasonable level of privacy due to tree coverage, and the sites are well-spaced to ensure seclusion.
Total Campsites23 campsites
Recommended CampsitesEmerald Vista offers great views and is a recommended spot to visit. Sites near the Mountain Top Trail are convenient for hiking.
Best CampsitesNo specific sites are highlighted as 'best' in the provided sources.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check in: 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check out: 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 consecutive days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum number of guests per site is not specified.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground is arranged in a single loop winding through mixed hardwood and pine trees.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally from April 1 to November 15.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not available.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Rarely are there many people there, according to user reviews.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations are not applicable as reservations are not available.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground is ideal for hiking enthusiasts, offering direct access to both the Ouachita National Recreation Trail and the Mountain Top Trail. The area provides opportunities for day hikes, backpacking, and wildlife viewing. The proximity to Emerald Vista also allows visitors to enjoy scenic photography.
Hiking
The campground provides access to the 192-mile Ouachita National Recreation Trail and the Mountain Top Trail, which includes a one-mile and a two-mile loop. Additional trails like Horsethief and Billy Creek Trails are within three miles.Wildlife viewing
Visitors often report sightings of wildlife, including walking stick bugs, which are noted to be particularly abundant during certain seasons.Winter Activities
The campground is open seasonally from April 1 to November 15, so winter activities like snowshoeing are not applicable.Water Sports
No water sports activities are available at or near the campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted. Fire rings are provided at each campsite.
- Quiet hours are from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include falling trees during high winds, bear activity, and seasonal infestations of walking stick bugs.
Active alertsSeasonal water unavailability and overflowing trash receptacles have been reported.
Weather forecast
66
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 96%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 7.6 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
Oklahoma Ranger District (South), Address: 111 SH-259A Broken Bow, OK 74728, Phone: (580) 494-6402.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season generally coincides with open season, April 1 to November 15.
Trash and recyclingBear-proof trash receptacles are available, but reviewers frequently noted that these were overflowing during their stays, leading to concerns about maintenance and wildlife safety.
Proximity to water featuresNo water features nearby; the campground does not offer swimming or boating facilities.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include overflowing trash receptacles, lack of potable water, and dirty vault toilets.
HostThere is no official mention of campground hosts.
Campground Map
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Driving directionsFrom Hodgen, OK, take US Rt. 270 south 10.5 miles to US Rt. 259. Turn right onto Rt. 259 and go 4.3 miles to Talimena Drive sign (State Rt. 1). Turn right onto Talimena Dr. and proceed to stop sign. Turn right onto State Rt. 1 (Talimena Drive) and go 2 miles to Winding Stair campground sign. Turn right at sign and proceed into campground.
The campground is accessible via paved roads; however, low overhanging branches may be encountered on the interior road.Nearby places
Hodgen: 2 miles.
Nearby supplies
The nearest supplies can be found in nearby towns, such as Smithville, OK, which is a drive away. Bring all necessary supplies including water, as none is available on-site.
Camper Reviews
4.4
82 reviews
Winding Stair Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the peaceful setting, scenic views, and the campground's appeal to hikers. However, the lack of potable water and issues with trash maintenance are common complaints.
Review Summaries
Based on 82 reviews
What Campers Love
Many users appreciate the spacious and quiet campsites, the proximity to beautiful trails, and the stunning views from Emerald Vista. The campground's affordability and primitive charm are also...
Based on 82 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Major complaints include the lack of reliable potable water, overflowing trash bins, and occasional cleanliness issues with the vault toilets. Some visitors also mentioned seasonal infestations of...
Based on 82 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring sufficient water and lights, as the campground lacks potable water and electricity. Utilize bear-safe food storage techniques. For the best views, consider camping near Emerald Vista.
Based on 82 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Spring and fall are popular for camping due to mild weather and fewer bugs. Summer reviews note hot, humid conditions and increased insect activity, while winter camping is unavailable as the...
Based on 82 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
- 'Beautiful place to stop in and camp for a night or two. The sites are great and the hiking trail is a clear trail that can be followed through a beautiful wooded area.'
- 'Quiet, peaceful, and...
Based on 82 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Campsite #7 was reported to have experienced a fallen tree during high winds. Campsite #16 provides direct access to the Mountain Top Trail.
Based on 82 reviewsAccessibility Features
Some sites with concrete areas and accessible fire pits are noted, but no specific reviews address broader accessibility concerns for users with mobility needs.
Based on 82 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and the campground is pet-friendly. However, visitors should follow leash requirements and clean up after their pets.
Based on 82 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025