Cookson Bend
4.2983 reviews446977 EAST 980 ROAD, GORE, OK, 74435-9547, USA
Cookson Bend
$12.00 - $50.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$23.00
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
The nightly fees vary by season and site type. Peak season rates range from $16 for non-electric tent sites to $50 for group shelters with electricity. Off-peak season rates range from $12 for non-electric tent sites to $50 for group shelters. Discounts may apply for senior and access passes.
About this campground
Perched along the pristine shores of Tenkiller Ferry Lake, Cookson Bend Campground invites you to wake up to stunning vistas of towering 200-foot limestone bluffs reflected in crystal-clear waters. This lakeside haven offers thoughtfully terraced campsites, each positioned to capture breathtaking water views while providing modern comforts including electrical hookups and clean restroom facilities. Adventure seekers will find their basecamp here, with direct access to endless water activities and a full-service marina where you can fuel up on supplies or grab a bite between lake explorations.
Cookson Bend enables a mix of camping styles, including tent, RV, and group camping.
Historical SignificanceYour stay at Cookson Bend places you in the heart of Oklahoma's storied Green Country, where Cherokee Nation heritage runs as deep as the lake itself. Just a short drive away, the historic town of Tahlequah beckons with tales of the Trail of Tears and Cherokee resilience, while the nearby Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge preserves both natural wonders and the legacy of the brilliant Cherokee silversmith who created the Cherokee syllabary. Every sunset over these waters connects you to centuries of indigenous history and the enduring spirit of this remarkable landscape.
Weather and SeasonsSpring awakens Cookson Bend with perfect camping weather, as wildflowers bloom across the hillsides and temperatures invite outdoor adventures. While winter brings crisp air with temperatures dipping between 33°F and 47°F, the moderate winds and generally dry conditions make for cozy campfire evenings. Early summer delivers those golden days that camping memories are made of—warm sunshine, gentle breezes, and ideal conditions for both water sports and hiking the surrounding trails.
Natural Features and SceneryNature's artistry surrounds you at Cookson Bend, where ancient Oak-Hickory forests cascade down rolling hills to meet the shimmering expanse of Tenkiller Ferry Lake. Morning mists reveal white-tailed deer grazing at the forest edge, while wild turkeys strut through the underbrush. Keep your binoculars handy—majestic bald eagles soar overhead during winter months, and graceful pelicans glide across the water during their seasonal migrations. Fed by the pristine waters of the Illinois River and Baron Fork, the lake maintains a clarity that makes every sunrise and sunset a photographer's dream.
Geological RegionNestled within the rugged beauty of the Cookson Hills, a hidden gem of the Ozark Mountains, this campground showcases nature's geological masterpiece. The towering limestone bluffs that define the landscape tell a story millions of years in the making, their ancient layers exposed by the flowing waters of the Illinois River and Baron Fork—both designated Oklahoma Scenic Rivers. Dense Oak-Hickory forests blanket the rolling terrain, creating a tapestry of green that transforms into brilliant golds and crimsons each fall, while the interplay of water, stone, and forest creates countless intimate coves and dramatic overlooks waiting to be discovered.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility details are not extensively described in the sources, but passages suggest limited information.
Sites SizeSites vary in size, with some able to accommodate large RVs. User reviews highlight size issues, such as Jim D.'s concern that larger units face difficulties due to power limitations and tight layouts.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary; some sites are clustered closely together, as noted by Ronda B., while others offer secluded lakeside views like those described by Nancy D.
Total Campsites130 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 51-57 are recommended for larger RVs needing 50 amp service. Waterfront sites are ideal for scenic views, while shaded sites are better for hot summer days.
Best CampsitesSites 51-57 offer 50 amp power and proximity to the lake. Sites near the water provide excellent views, particularly during quieter seasons.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
6:00 PM
Check-out
3:00 PM
Stay Limit
Camping is limited to 14 consecutive days within any rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Limit of 3 tents, or 1 wheeled camper and 2 tents per camp pad.
Groups
Group picnic shelters are reservable and equipped with electricity, catering to larger gatherings, but are day-use only.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features terraced sections with most sites offering partial or full lake views.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen April 1 through September 30 for reservations. Off-peak season (October 1-31) operates as first-come, first-served.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov, online or through the app.
Walk-in AvailabilityOff-peak season (October 1-31) is first-come, first-served. Availability varies during peak season.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made any time before the scheduled arrival date. A $10 cancellation fee applies, with additional fees for late cancellations. For individual campsites, late cancellations will forfeit the first night's fees.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Cookson Bend offers an array of recreational activities suitable for various interests, including water sports, hiking, and wildlife observation.
Hiking
While there are no dedicated hiking trails, the campground's paved roads are suitable for walking. Donald R. described them as enjoyable for casual strolls.Fishing
Fishing opportunities include black bass, white bass, striped bass, crappie, and catfish. The trout stream below the dam is stocked with rainbow trout. 'The lake is one of the prettiest in Oklahoma,' according to Donald R.Swimming
Swimming is available in designated swim beach areas. Nancy D. described feeling like she had her 'own private swim beach.' Safety measures are not explicitly mentioned.Biking
Biking is possible on the campground's paved roads. Stuart S. enjoyed biking alongside other activities like kayaking.Boating
Two boat ramps enhance boating activities, and the nearby marina offers rentals and floating restaurants. Jeremy B. mentioned 'beautiful views of the lake' and marina amenities, enhancing the boating experience.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife observation opportunities include deer, migratory birds such as bald eagles and pelicans, and loons. Steve A. shared a memorable experience of observing a bald eagle.Beach activities
The swim beach provides opportunities for sunbathing and water activities. The beach and shoreline were praised by Gene S. for their cleanliness and improvement over previous years.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not specifically mentioned.Water Sports
Water skiing and scuba diving are popular due to the lake's clear water and high visibility.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires must be contained within provided fire rings or grills. Fire pits should be kept free of food and litter.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsSeasonal flooding may affect certain sites. Sites near the entrance gate can be difficult to access with larger vehicles.
Active alertsFlooding has been reported in past years, impacting accessibility to certain sites.
Weather forecast
70
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 84%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 4.9 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 emergency services are likely in Gore, Oklahoma, with hospitals and police stations present in Tahlequah, OK, approximately 30 minutes away.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 1 through September 30.
Trash and recyclingTrash dumpsters are provided, and campers are required to keep sites free of litter during occupancy. Fire rings are not to be used as trash receptacles.
Proximity to water featuresCookson Bend Campground is directly adjacent to Tenkiller Ferry Lake, offering immediate access to boating and fishing.
Common complaintsSome sites lack individual grills. Water pressure is reportedly low, and maintenance issues with bathrooms and shower facilities are noted.
HostHost interactions are mixed, with some users noting helpfulness and others reporting rude behavior.
Campground Map
446977 EAST 980 ROAD, GORE, OK, 74435-9547, USA
Driving directionsFrom Tahlequah, OK go 17.5 miles southeast on Highway 82. Look for signs for Tenkiller and turn right, then go two miles west on the paved access road.
The campground is accessible via paved roads. Seasonal flooding may affect access, and certain sites near the entrance gate are reportedly difficult to navigate with larger vehicles due to tree cover and gravel.Nearby places
Tahlequah, OK: 17.5 miles, approximately 30 minutes
Vian, OK: 25 miles, approximately 40 minutes.
Nearby supplies
For supplies, the Cookson Marina is within walking distance and offers concessions. Additional grocery and camping supplies are available in nearby towns like Tahlequah or Vian, Oklahoma.
Camper Reviews
4.3
83 reviews
Cookson Bend is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews for Cookson Bend Campground vary widely, with some campers praising the beautiful lake views, clean facilities, and friendly staff, while others criticized maintenance issues and overcrowding.
Review Summaries
Based on 83 reviews
What Campers Love
Many reviews highlighted the scenic lakefront locations, clean sites, and family-friendly atmosphere. One user, Stuart S., described it as 'really beautiful,' while another, Dana H., said, 'This is...
Based on 83 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints focused on maintenance issues, including closed shower houses, inadequate bathroom facilities, and lack of water hookups as mentioned by Brandon B. and Brian K. Several reviews also noted...
Based on 83 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers suggested choosing lakeside sites for views, checking water spigots before setting up, and avoiding busy holiday weekends due to crowds and maintenance shortages.
Based on 83 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer months saw a spike in maintenance complaints due to overcrowded facilities, while off-peak times were described as quieter and more relaxing. For example, Jeffrey H. noted a peaceful...
Based on 83 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
'Peaceful, quiet, relaxing. Hardly anyone else there.' - Jeffrey H.
'Wonderful view, well kept campgrounds.' - Samuel P.
'Bathrooms were out of order part of the time.' - Mike O.
Based on 83 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Campsite 002 was criticized for being crowded and poorly maintained. Campsite 049 received praise for its 'beautiful views' and clean surroundings. Group sites were noted for good lake views but...
Based on 83 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No significant accessibility details are provided other than general comments about paved roads being suitable for walking.
Based on 83 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are permitted but must be restrained. Cheryl W. expressed concern over larger dogs roaming free, despite leash requirements.
Based on 83 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025