Snake Creek
4.0018 reviews36561 S. 516 Rd., Cookson, OK, 74427
Snake Creek
$16.00 - $50.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$25.00
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
Fees range from $16-$25 for standard electric sites and $50 for group shelter electric sites depending on season and availability.
About this campground
Discover Snake Creek Park, where modern comfort meets untamed nature along the pristine shores of Tenkiller Ferry Lake. This beloved camping destination seamlessly blends state-of-the-art facilities with immediate access to crystal-clear waters, creating the perfect basecamp for outdoor enthusiasts. Wake to the calls of native birds and spend your days exploring hidden coves, while evenings bring spectacular wildlife sightings as deer, turkey, and countless species emerge from the surrounding forests.
Snake Creek Park accommodates various camping styles, including standard electric sites and group shelters. Sites are reservable and operate on a rolling 6-month booking window.
Historical SignificanceCamp on lands steeped in Cherokee heritage, just miles from Tahlequah, the historic capital of the Cherokee Nation. This region tells stories of resilience and renewal, where ancient trails once connected tribal communities across the hills. The nearby Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge adds another layer of significance, protecting critical habitats that have sustained both wildlife and human communities for generations. Every sunrise here connects you to centuries of history written in the landscape itself.
Weather and SeasonsExperience four distinct seasons at Snake Creek Park, each offering its own outdoor adventures. Spring and fall bring perfect camping weather with comfortable highs around 47°F and crisp nights dipping to 33°F—ideal for campfire gatherings. Moderate rainfall keeps the landscape lush, punctuated by dramatic Oklahoma storms that paint the sky. Summer transforms the park into a water recreation paradise with warm temperatures perfect for swimming and boating, while winter's quiet beauty offers solitude for the hardy cold-weather camper.
ElevationThe park's gentle terrain offers comfortable camping for all experience levels, with sites thoughtfully positioned to maximize lake views and forest shade.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in Oklahoma's 'Green Country,' where towering oak and hickory forests cascade down the Ozark foothills to meet Tenkiller's famously clear waters. The landscape unfolds in layers of natural beauty—from intimate forest glades filled with wildflowers to dramatic limestone bluffs rising above the lake. With 130 miles of intricate shoreline to explore, each bend reveals new vistas: secluded swimming holes, rocky outcrops perfect for fishing, and quiet inlets where herons stalk through morning mist.
Geological RegionNestled in the ancient Ozark foothills, Snake Creek Park showcases Oklahoma's most dramatic terrain where millennia of geological forces have carved a landscape of stunning contrasts. The 12,500-acre Tenkiller Ferry Lake fills a valley shaped by prehistoric rivers, creating a water wonderland surrounded by billion-year-old rock formations. Dense oak-hickory forests blanket the rolling hills, their roots anchored in soil enriched by centuries of fallen leaves. This is Oklahoma's 'Green Country' at its finest—where tall bluffs, hidden hollows, and 130 miles of serpentine shoreline create endless opportunities for exploration and discovery.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible flush toilets are available, and the campground has amenities such as accessible occupant messages and entry stations.
Sites SizeSites vary in size, and users have mentioned both spacious and overgrown sites.
Sites PrivacyReviews are mixed regarding site privacy; some users appreciated the shade and seclusion ('Love the view shade and privacy') while others noted issues like neighboring loud music ('Other campers had extremely loud music from about 7:30 untill well after 10:00.')
Total Campsites130 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring tools for removing stickers/thorns due to prevalence of sand burs. Sites in renovated areas may offer better amenities. Avoid sites with known water hydrant issues (e.g., sites 013, 063).
Best CampsitesSites like 091 in the older part of the park are praised for quiet and privacy. Sites like 093 are noted for their view and shade.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
6:00 PM
Check-out
3:00 PM
Stay Limit
Camping is limited to 14 consecutive days within any 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Limit 3 tents or 1 wheeled camper and 2 tents per camp pad.
Groups
Group shelters are equipped with electricity and are intended for 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 is divided into loops, with renovated sections offering improved amenities. Some areas are first-come-first-served.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen April 1 through September 30 (reservable). First-come, first-served season runs October 1 through October 31.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online platform, app, or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityAvailable during the first-come, first-served season (October 1 - October 31).
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee and forfeit first night's recreation use fee for late cancellations. Changes to reservations also cost $10 for modifying dates entirely outside original reservation. Refund requests must be submitted within 7 days of reservation end date.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Dump station
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Snake Creek Park provides a wealth of recreational opportunities for visitors, including boating, fishing, hiking, swimming, and wildlife viewing. Additionally, the lake's clear waters attract scuba divers and sailors. One reviewer summed it up: 'Snake Creek is great for launching your boat, camping and access to Lake Tenkiller.'
Hiking
Hiking trails are available, though the source does not give specific details about trail lengths or difficulty levels.Fishing
The lake supports fishing for various species, including black bass, white bass, striped bass, crappie, and catfish. The trout stream below the dam is stocked with rainbow trout year-round, providing anglers with ample opportunities.Swimming
Designated swim beaches are available at the campground, although pets are not allowed in these areas. One review praised the swimming facilities: 'Great place to camp and swim.'Boating
Boating facilities are well-developed, with a marina nearby offering boat and jet-ski rentals. However, one user highlighted the need for better management of the boat ramp dock: 'There needs to be more policing of the loading ramp dock.'Wildlife viewing
The area is rich in wildlife, including deer, turkey, bald eagles, common loons, and white pelicans. It is situated in migratory bird flyways, offering excellent opportunities for wildlife observation.Beach activities
The swim beach is a key feature of the campground, providing opportunities for sunbathing and swimming.Winter Activities
Winter activities such as trout fishing in the year-round trout stream below the dam are mentioned.Water Sports
Scuba diving and sailing are popular due to the lake's clear waters and prevailing winds.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires must be contained within provided fire rings or grills. Firewood must be sourced locally to prevent pests.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM - 6:00 AM
Hazards
General hazardsSand burs and goathead stickers are prevalent and can pose challenges for pets and children. Occasional storms may occur during late-night hours.
Active alertsNo current alerts.
Weather forecast
70
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 84%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 5.1 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
The nearest emergency services are in Gore, OK (~15 miles), which includes police and medical facilities.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 1 - September 30
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, but several reviews noted issues with overflowing trash cans: 'Not enough trash cans. Trash was overflowing.'
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on Tenkiller Ferry Lake, close to marina and boat ramps.
Common complaintsRecurring issues include overgrown grass, sticker burs, occasional water quality issues (yellow/brown water), lack of cellular service, and loud music disrupting quiet hours.
HostStaff and gate personnel are described as friendly and attentive in user reviews. However, some users report insufficient policing of park rules.
Campground Map
36561 S. 516 Rd., Cookson, OK, 74427
Driving directionsFrom Gore, OK, go 15 miles northeast on Highway 100, then turn left and go 1/2 mile west on paved access road.
The roads leading to the campground are paved and accessible year-round.Nearby places
Gore, OK (~15 miles, ~20 minutes)
Tahlequah, OK (~30 miles, ~40 minutes)
Vian, OK (~15 miles, ~20 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Supplies, including groceries and camping essentials, can be found in Gore, OK (~15 miles) or Tahlequah (~30 miles). Fuel for vehicles is also available in these towns.
Camper Reviews
4.0
18 reviews
Snake Creek has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Snake Creek are mixed. Positive remarks highlight the clean facilities, lake access, and scenic surroundings. Complaints focus on maintenance issues, overgrown sites, and lack of cellular service. Seasonal challenges such as sticker burs are also mentioned.
Review Summaries
Based on 18 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean bathrooms and showers, great lake access, scenic views, and friendly staff are frequently praised. One reviewer noted: 'The restroom and shower facilities were clean, serviceable and safe....
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Overflowing trash cans, clogged toilets, overgrown campsites, lack of cellular service, and sticker burs are commonly cited issues. For example, one user stated: 'Trash was overflowing, women's...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring a lawn mower or weed spray if visiting during seasons when sticker burs are prevalent. Consider booking during non-holiday weekends to avoid loud music disturbances.
Based on 18 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Spring and summer are ideal for water activities, but sticker burs and overgrown grass are common complaints during warmer months. Holiday weekends can be noisy due to non-observance of quiet hours.
Based on 18 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Love the view shade and privacy.' 2. 'Snake Creek is great for launching your boat, camping and access to Lake Tenkiller.' 3. 'Trash was overflowing, women's restroom was reduced to one toilet...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific campsite reviews highlight varying experiences. For example, site 063 had issues with yellow water and ants, while site 093 received praise for its shade and privacy.
Based on 18 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible flush toilets are appreciated, but no other accessibility features were reviewed.
Based on 18 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed or penned at all times. Sticker burs and thorns were noted as problematic for pets.
Based on 18 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025