Elk Creek Landing
4.3134 reviews446977 East 980 Road, Gore, OK 74435-9547, USA
Elk Creek Landing
$10.00 - $25.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$10.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Peak season rates range from $23 to $25 for Standard Electric sites, $16 for Standard Nonelectric sites, and $10 for Group Shelter Nonelectric. Discounts, taxes, and incremental charges are not included in displayed rates.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine shores of Tenkiller Ferry Lake, Elk Creek Landing Park offers an escape into Oklahoma's natural splendor. This meticulously maintained campground invites visitors to wake up to stunning vistas of 200-foot limestone bluffs rising majestically from crystal-clear waters. With modern facilities seamlessly integrated into the peaceful landscape, campers enjoy the perfect balance of comfort and wilderness immersion in this tranquil lakeside retreat.
Elk Creek Landing provides spaces for tent camping, RV sites, and group shelters.
Historical SignificanceJourney through centuries of rich heritage just beyond your campsite. A short drive leads to Tahlequah, the historic capital of the Cherokee Nation, where stories of resilience and culture come alive through museums, heritage sites, and living traditions. Nature enthusiasts will discover the nearby Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge, a vital sanctuary preserving both natural ecosystems and the legacy of the Cherokee scholar who gave the refuge its name.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dynamic beauty of Oklahoma's changing seasons at Elk Creek Landing, where each time of year paints the landscape in different hues. While winter brings crisp, dry air perfect for cozy campfires, visitors should prepare for the area's characteristic winds that sweep across the lake, creating dramatic whitecaps and rustling through the forest canopy. Each season unveils its own magic, from spring wildflowers to autumn's golden tapestry.
ElevationThe campground's gentle terrain provides accessible camping opportunities for all visitors, with sites positioned to maximize lake views and forest ambiance.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the jewel of northeastern Oklahoma - Tenkiller Ferry Lake, rightfully crowned as the state's 'clear water paradise.' This 12,500-acre aquatic playground sparkles beneath towering limestone cliffs and dense forests that stretch to the horizon. Watch as ancient flyways guide magnificent bald eagles and graceful pelicans overhead, while the surrounding oak-hickory forests whisper stories of the Ozarks. The lake's remarkable clarity invites swimmers, divers, and anglers to explore its depths, where underwater visibility can extend for feet in the pristine waters.
Geological RegionDiscover your gateway to the Ozark foothills in northeastern Oklahoma's enchanting 'Green Country.' Here, ancient geological forces have sculpted a dramatic landscape of towering limestone bluffs and gently rolling hills blanketed in dense oak-hickory forests. The campground sits at the confluence of natural wonders, where the Illinois River and Baron Fork - both designated Oklahoma Scenic Rivers - feed the crystalline waters of Tenkiller Ferry Lake. This unique geological setting creates a diverse ecosystem where Ozark Mountain species mingle with prairie wildlife, offering campers an extraordinary window into Oklahoma's natural heritage.
Campsite details
AccessibilityBathrooms are located uphill, which may be challenging for individuals with mobility issues.
Sites SizeSites vary in size; most are concrete and relatively level.
Sites Privacy"Sites are nice with a concrete table, grill, and fire pit at each site" [User Review - Melissa M]. However, some campers noted limited privacy due to the proximity of sites and lack of shade.
Total Campsites36 campsites
Recommended CampsitesWaterfront sites are recommended for views; uphill backing required for hillside sites; bathhouses accessible via steep paths.
Best CampsitesUser reviews highlight sites 18, 26, 28, and 30 for proximity to water and views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
6:00 PM
Check-out
3:00 PM
Stay Limit
14 consecutive nights within rolling 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Limit of 3 tents or 1 wheeled camper and 2 tents per camp pad.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are on a hillside; waterfront sites are gravel; concrete pads available for RVs.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from April 1 to September 30 each year for reservations; October 1 to October 31 is first-come, first-served.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityOctober 1 - October 31 operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Walk-up availability specifics are null.
Cancellation PolicyChanges incur a $10 fee; cancellations before arrival minus a $10 cancellation fee and reservation fees. Late cancellations forfeit the first night's fee.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors enjoy a variety of activities, including fishing, boating, hiking, swimming, and scuba diving. "Fishing is good for black bass, white bass, striped bass, crappie, and catfish" [Authoritative Source]. Hunting is permitted in specific areas according to federal and state laws.
Hiking
Hiking trails around the lake offer scenic views of limestone bluffs and dense oak-hickory forests.Fishing
Fishing is excellent, with opportunities to catch black bass, white bass, striped bass, crappie, and catfish. "My son had decent luck fishing" [User Review - Melissa M].Swimming
Swimming areas are available, and users praise the easy access to the lake: "Great access to the water. Clean restrooms" [User Review - Courtney H].Boating
"Just used the boat ramp. They had nice RV sites as well" [User Review - Eric M]. Boaters enjoy the marina and lake access.Wildlife viewing
Frequent sightings of migratory birds such as bald eagles, common loons, and white pelicans. "The camp host was very nice and helpful and showed me to my campsite when I arrived... watching the many birds frequenting the campground and lakeshore" [User Review - Robert N].Winter Activities
No specific mention of winter activities.Water Sports
Prevailing winds and secluded coves create ideal conditions for sailing and water skiing. Scuba divers appreciate the lake's clear waters.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires must be contained within provided fire rings or grills.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM
Hazards
General hazardsHigh winds reported (mentioned in user reviews). No specific wildlife or terrain hazards mentioned.
Active alertsRecent issues with showers lacking hot water and high water pressure bursting hoses.
Weather forecast
69
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 84%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 5.7 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
Emergency services closest to the campground are not specified. Ranger station, hospitals, or police details are null.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 1 - September 30
Trash and recyclingCampers are required to keep sites free of trash and litter. Trash must be disposed of in provided dumpsters.
Proximity to water featuresLocated on Tenkiller Ferry Lake; waterfront sites available.
Common complaintsComplaints include lack of shade, poor condition of the dump station, and water pressure issues.
HostHosts are described as helpful and friendly, assisting with campsite navigation.
Campground Map
446977 East 980 Road, Gore, OK 74435-9547, USA
Driving directionsFrom Tahlequah, OK, go 14 miles southeast on Highway 82, then turn right and go a mile on the paved access road.
The road to the campground is paved and easily accessible. Seasonal closures or road challenges are not mentioned.Nearby places
Tahlequah, OK - approximately 14 miles southeast
Vian, OK - approximately 15 miles northwest.
Nearby supplies
A marina with concessions is near the campground offering boat and jet-ski rentals and floating restaurants. Details on grocery stores, fuel, or camping supplies are null.
Camper Reviews
4.3
34 reviews
Elk Creek Landing is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, reviews describe Elk Creek Landing as peaceful, scenic, and well-maintained, although there were complaints regarding bathroom facilities and limited shade. "Very nice place! We got a spot right on the shoreline" [User Review - Taylor Slaughter].
Review Summaries
Based on 34 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers appreciated shaded spots, easy access to the water, and the friendly gate attendants: "The lady that works the gate was very pleasant with my husband and son and even gave my son frisbees"...
Based on 34 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints included lack of hot water in showers, limited shade, and bathroom accessibility. "Showers had no hot water" [User Review - Robbin Allen]. "Bathrooms are up a hill via steps" [User Review...
Based on 34 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing longer hoses due to awkward water hookup locations near the dump station. Choose sites closer to the shore for better views.
Based on 34 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Peak season from April to September is highly recommended for water-related activities. "Can’t wait to return in the fall" [User Review - Shakira P]. Storms have caused damage to trees affecting the...
Based on 34 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Everything about Elk Creek is fantastic" [User Review - Pam P]. "Brand new showers, but NO hot water, not good at all" [User Review - Raymond S]. "The dump station left a lot to be desired. It was...
Based on 34 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 18: "Right next to the shore. Bathrooms are up a hill via steps" [User Review - Melissa Messer]. Site 30: "Great view of the lake with some pretty sunsets and sunrises" [User Review - Robert N]....
Based on 34 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility may be challenging due to steep hills around the campground. "Bathrooms are up a hill via steps" [User Review - Melissa Messer].
Based on 34 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must remain restrained at all times. "Pets are NOT allowed on swim beaches or in bathrooms" [Authoritative Source].
Based on 34 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025