Tall Chief Cove
4.36257 reviews14004 Lake Road
Tall Chief Cove
$24.00 - $50.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$24.00
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
Reservations are charged at $24-$34 for standard electric sites and $50 for group shelter electric sites. Additional fees include a $10 cancellation fee and non-refundable reservation service fees ($8 online, $9 via contact center, $3 in-person).
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine shores of Skiatook Lake in northeastern Oklahoma, Tall Chief Cove beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its forested campsites and tranquil waterfront setting. This hidden gem offers visitors a perfect blend of natural serenity and adventure, where mornings begin with birdsong filtering through the canopy and evenings end with spectacular sunsets painting the lake in shades of gold and crimson.
Tall Chief Cove caters to a variety of camping preferences, including RV, tent, and group camping. Campsites are equipped with electric and water hookups, picnic tables, and fire pits.
Historical SignificanceWhile Tall Chief Cove's recorded history may be recent, the land itself tells ancient stories through its rolling hills and native grasslands. The area represents the timeless appeal of Oklahoma's natural landscape, where generations of families have created lasting memories around campfires and along these peaceful shores.
Weather and SeasonsSummer brings warm, inviting temperatures that transform Tall Chief Cove into an outdoor paradise perfect for swimming, hiking, and lakeside relaxation. Spring and fall offer mild conditions ideal for exploring the surrounding wilderness, though visitors should note that heavy seasonal rains occasionally prompt temporary closures to ensure guest safety. The ever-changing Oklahoma weather adds character to each camping experience, from dramatic thunderstorms rolling across the lake to crystal-clear nights perfect for stargazing.
ElevationThe gently rolling terrain of Tall Chief Cove creates natural amphitheaters and intimate camping spots, each offering its own unique perspective of the surrounding landscape. The subtle changes in elevation throughout the campground provide both lakeside access and elevated viewpoints for those seeking panoramic vistas.
Natural Features and SceneryTall Chief Cove's landscape reads like a love letter to Oklahoma's diverse ecosystems. Majestic blackjack and post oak trees create a living cathedral overhead, their branches forming natural shade pavilions for campers below. The campground seamlessly transitions from dense woodland to sweeping tall grass prairie, where native wildflowers dance in the breeze. Most dramatically, steep limestone bluffs rise from the water's edge like ancient sentinels, their weathered faces reflecting centuries of wind and water, creating picture-perfect backdrops for sunset photography and quiet contemplation.
Geological RegionSet in the heart of northeastern Oklahoma's Cross Timbers region, Tall Chief Cove showcases the area's distinctive geological tapestry. Here, ancient limestone bluffs meet rolling hills cloaked in hardy blackjack and post oak forests—trees perfectly adapted to this unique transition zone between eastern woodlands and western prairies. Ribbons of tall grass prairie weave between the wooded areas, creating a mosaic of habitats that defines this remarkable corner of Oklahoma. The lake itself fills a valley carved by time, its waters now lapping at shores that tell the story of millions of years of geological evolution.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground offers accessible facilities, including handicap sites that are described as easy to navigate for limited mobility users. However, one review mentioned that these sites are located farther from the lake and are not well-marked.
Sites SizeThe campground features a mix of small, medium, and large campsites. 'Some sites are pretty short. Some are large,' said one reviewer.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites provide varying levels of privacy. Some users note large lots spaced out from neighbors, while others mention that closely spaced sites can reduce privacy on busy weekends.
Total Campsites50 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring extra-long water hoses for shared water spigots. Sites on loops A and B are preferred for lakeside views and shade.
Best CampsitesSite B37 is highly praised for its waterfront view and proximity to the swim beach.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
3:00 PM
Check-out
1:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum of 14 consecutive nights per stay.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Exact number of guests not specified in authoritative data.
Groups
The group picnic shelter can accommodate up to 200 people for daytime activities.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is organized into loops A, B, and C, with varying site sizes and amenities.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is open from April 1 to October 30.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites may be available for walk-up, but weekends and peak times are often fully booked. User reviews recommend reserving well in advance.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled ahead of the scheduled check-in date, with a $10 cancellation fee applied. Late cancellation fees also include forfeiting the first night's recreation use fee.
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
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Tall Chief Cove offers a wide range of recreational activities suitable for families and individuals. Activities include swimming, hiking, fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. The campground also features a playground, picnic areas, and educational programs designed for all ages.
Hiking
Tall Chief Cove features a nature trail for walkers and hikers. The trail offers picturesque views of Skiatook Lake and surrounding grasslands and forests. Trail difficulty levels and lengths are not specified.Fishing
Anglers can enjoy sport fishing for largemouth bass, black and white crappie, channel catfish, and various sunfish species. 'Fishing docks are well-kept,' confirmed one reviewer.Swimming
The campground has a designated swim beach, which is popular during warmer months but occasionally closed due to lake water levels or maintenance. 'Water is clear with a slow descent, perfect for swimming and lounging,' said one reviewer.Boating
Boating activities at Skiatook Lake are supported by a nearby ramp and dock. Reviewers recommend bringing boats for fishing and leisure activities.Wildlife viewing
The area offers opportunities for observing whitetail deer, quail, rabbits, and squirrels. Many campers enjoy birdwatching and exploring the diverse ecosystem of the forested lakeshore.Beach activities
Beach activities include swimming and sunbathing at the designated swim beach. However, closures due to water levels are occasionally reported.Cultural and Educational Programs
Families can participate in educational programs hosted at the campground. Topics covered in these programs are not detailed.Water Sports
Water activities such as kayaking and paddleboarding can be accessed, especially near Cross Timbers Marina located nearby.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed, but firewood must be purchased locally.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM - 6:00 AM
Hazards
General hazardsFlooding during rainy periods can affect lakeside campsites. Scorpions and other wildlife have been noted in user reviews.
Active alertsSwimming beach is currently closed due to low water levels.
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 75%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 8.1 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 hospital and emergency services are in Skiatook, approximately 20 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 1 - October 30
Trash and recyclingTrash dumpsters were reportedly hard to find by some campers, although hiking trails eventually led others to locate them. There are no trash cans near the dump station. Recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located along Skiatook Lake, offering waterfront campsites.
Common complaintsComplaints include shared water hookups requiring long hoses, rude gate attendants, and occasional issues with cleanliness and maintenance.
HostThe campground gate keepers are available from 12 PM to 10 PM Thursday through Monday.
Campground Map
14004 Lake Road
Driving directionsFrom Tulsa, Oklahoma, take Highway 75 north to State Highway 20. Take the Skiatook exit, turn west on State Highway 20 and drive about 15 miles. Turn left on Lake Road and proceed about five miles to the campground.
The campground is accessible via paved roads, but some user reviews mention occasional GPS inaccuracies in the area.Nearby places
Skiatook (approximately 20 miles), Tulsa (approximately 30 miles)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies, including groceries and fuel, are available in Skiatook, approximately 20 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.4
257 reviews
Tall Chief Cove is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Tall Chief Cove is generally well-liked by visitors, with an average campground rating of 4.10/5 based on reviews. Positive highlights include clean facilities, beautiful lake views, and friendliness of staff. However, notable complaints revolve around shared water hookups, late check-in times, and occasional noise disturbances from other campers.
Review Summaries
Based on 257 reviews
What Campers Love
Visitors often praised the campground's cleanliness and well-maintained facilities. 'The bathrooms are the cleanest I’ve seen at any similar facility,' noted one reviewer. Others highlighted the...
Based on 257 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include poor infrastructure such as shared water spigots requiring long hoses, unlevel pads, and occasional flooding during rainy seasons. Late check-in times and locked gates from...
Based on 257 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring extra long water hoses (up to 200 feet) for shared water spigots. Plan to reserve campsites well ahead of time, especially for weekend stays. Consider avoiding waterfront sites during rainy...
Based on 257 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Peak season, between April 1st and October 30th, sees high demand for reservations. Summer months offer clear water for swimming, but late summer and fall may see closures at the swim beach due to...
Based on 257 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Clean and handicap accessible bathrooms and showers.' 2. 'On the weekend almost every campsite was full and lots of kids running around.' 3. 'Bring at least 100ft of water hose or fill up your...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site B37 is highly recommended for its proximity to the water and spacious concrete pads. Site C53 requires extra long hoses for water hookups. Reviewers suggest avoiding B35 due to erosion and water...
Based on 257 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessible sites are relatively easy to navigate but noted to be farther from amenities such as the lake. One reviewer commented that these sites were not well-marked as handicap accessible.
Based on 257 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but some complaints about unleashed dogs and owners not picking up after their pets were noted. 'We do everything possible not to inconvenience others,' mentioned one pet owner.
Based on 257 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025