Platter Flats
4.03180 reviews867 Trail Ride Road, Platter, OK 74753
Platter Flats
$15.00 - $50.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$15.00
Hookup Site Fee$24.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$16.00
Group Site Fee$50.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $15 to $50 depending on site type and season. Additional discounts may apply for Interagency Pass holders.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine shores of Lake Texoma, Platter Flats Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of waterfront adventure and wooded tranquility. Whether you're casting a line for the legendary striped bass that have made these waters famous, or exploring the scenic trails on horseback with your family, this versatile campground offers an authentic taste of Oklahoma's natural splendor. From sun-soaked days on the lake to peaceful evenings around the campfire, Platter Flats creates memories that last long after the tent stakes are pulled.
Platter Flats accommodates various camping styles, including family camping, equestrian sites, and tent options.
Historical SignificanceLake Texoma has earned its crown as the 'Striper Capital of the World' through decades of record-breaking catches and legendary fishing tales. This massive reservoir, born from the Red River's waters, has evolved into more than just a fishing destination—it's become a cornerstone of regional outdoor culture. The lake's unique ecosystem supports a thriving striped bass population found nowhere else in inland waters this far from the coast, drawing anglers from across the continent to test their skills against these powerful fighters.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Platter Flats in dramatically different colors, offering year-round appeal for adventurous spirits. Spring arrives with wildflower blooms and perfect 70-degree days, while autumn transforms the surrounding oak forests into a tapestry of gold and crimson under crisp, clear skies. Summer brings sultry days ideal for swimming and water sports, though wise campers seek shade during peak afternoon heat. Winter strips the landscape to its beautiful bones, offering solitude and stark beauty to hardy souls who don't mind bundled-up stargazing and limited amenities.
ElevationThe gently rolling terrain of Platter Flats offers varied camping experiences, from lakeside sites that put you steps from the water's edge to hilltop spots that command sweeping views of Lake Texoma's vast expanse. This natural undulation creates perfect nooks for private camping while ensuring excellent drainage during the occasional Oklahoma thunderstorm.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the rugged beauty of Oklahoma's Cross Timbers Region, where ancient post and blackjack oaks stand sentinel over rolling hills that tumble down to Lake Texoma's sparkling waters. This distinctive ecosystem creates a patchwork of dense woodlands and open meadows, providing ideal habitat for the white-tailed deer that graze at dawn, wild turkeys that strut through camp, and elusive bobcats that prowl the twilight hours. The interplay of forest and water creates endless photographic moments, from misty morning sunrises to golden hour reflections dancing across the lake.
Geological RegionThe Cross Timbers Region tells an ancient story written in stone and soil, where resilient post and blackjack oak forests have adapted to survive on the thin, rocky soils that define this unique geological zone. These hardy trees create a distinctive landscape of scattered woodlands and prairie openings, their gnarled branches testament to centuries of Oklahoma weather. The proximity to Lake Texoma adds another layer to this geological tapestry, where the impounded waters of the Red River have transformed ancient river valleys into a recreational paradise, creating countless coves and inlets perfect for exploration.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility information is not explicitly mentioned in authoritative or user reviews.
Sites SizeSites vary across family, equestrian, and tent camping options, with some offering spacious concrete pads and others noted as cramped or rocky.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels are mixed, with some reviewers calling the sites open and clustered, while others praised the spacious designs with scenic views.
Total Campsites64 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites with lake views for scenery or equestrian sites for horse access. Avoid areas with high party activity for quieter experience.
Best CampsitesHighly rated sites include B12 (lake view with tree coverage) and A21 (large area and privacy).
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
6:00 AM
Check-out
10:00 PM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit and up to 14 nights within rolling 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Guests per site are subject to individual site restrictions.
Groups
Agroup picnic shelter with electricity is available, suitable for gatherings, but only for day-use.
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 equestrian and non-equestrian sections, with loops labeled A and B.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season runs from April 1 to December 31 annually.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityLimited walk-up availability; reservations recommended, especially during peak season.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before the check-in date, with a $10 cancellation fee. 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
Lake Texoma provides diverse opportunities for outdoor recreation, including boating, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, birding, and relaxing on sandy beaches. The Cross Timbers hiking trail and equestrian trails are featured attractions.
Hiking
The Cross Timbers trail spans 14 miles, winding above the lake along rocky ledges and through woodland. However, trail markings have been criticized as inadequate by reviewers, requiring GPS for navigation.Fishing
The lake is renowned as the 'Striper Capital of the World,' offering naturally reproducing striped bass. Other species include largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish. Fishing conditions vary, with some users struggling to locate fish.Swimming
Visitors can enjoy sandy beaches and swim-friendly areas around Lake Texoma. Some users noted murky water conditions, while others enjoyed family-friendly swimming experiences.Boating
Boating is popular, with facilities like a boat ramp and dock available. Users praised the large, clean docking areas but raised concerns about safety due to reckless behavior by teenagers.Wildlife viewing
The region hosts deer, turkeys, bobcats, hawks, waterfowl, and songbirds, offering excellent wildlife observation opportunities.Beach activities
The campground features sandy beaches suitable for sunbathing and beachcombing.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not extensively detailed, though some users note visiting during colder months and enjoying peaceful, less crowded conditions.Water Sports
Platter Flats offers kayaking and other non-motorized water sports, with coves and beaches providing ideal conditions for these activities.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated areas; visitors are encouraged to use local firewood.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM - 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include unregulated dogs, ticks, and uneven terrain. Seasonal closures may limit water and restroom availability.
Active alertsSeasonal closures; reduced water access during winter months.
Weather forecast
83
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 54%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 15.1 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Mainly clear
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 is Texoma Medical Center in Denison, TX (approximately 10 miles away); nearest police station is in Colbert, OK.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 1 - November 30 annually.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not specifically detailed, but users frequently mention cleanliness issues, especially around bathrooms and common areas.
Proximity to water featuresLake Texoma is directly accessible for boating, fishing, and swimming.
Common complaintsNeglected facilities, safety concerns from unregulated pets, late-night noise disturbances, and theft.
HostHosts are generally helpful and maintain cleanliness, but user reviews suggest mixed experiences.
Campground Map
867 Trail Ride Road, Platter, OK 74753
Driving directionsFrom Colbert, Oklahoma, travel 5 miles north on US 75, turn west 5 miles to Platter Flats, OK, then follow signs to the campground.
Accessible via local roads; roads are fairly narrow and require careful navigation, especially for larger vehicles.Nearby places
Colbert, OK (10 miles, approximately 15 minutes)
Denison, TX (5 miles, approximately 10 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies, including groceries and fuel, can be found in Colbert, OK (approximately 10 miles away). Camping supplies may be available at local stores in Denison, TX.
Camper Reviews
4.0
180 reviews
Platter Flats is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User sentiments for Platter Flats are mixed, with many praising its scenery, equestrian facilities, and spacious sites, while others criticize unclean amenities, noisy neighbors, and lack of security.
Review Summaries
Based on 180 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive feedback emphasizes clean campgrounds, well-maintained horse stalls, scenic lake views, and helpful staff, particularly Cindy, the camp host. Users frequently describe the site as peaceful...
Based on 180 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include unclean showers and bathrooms, safety issues, theft, lack of supervision, and noise disturbances. Some users also mentioned poor trail markings and difficulty accessing water...
Based on 180 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend securing belongings due to theft, bringing long hoses for water hookup, and reserving equestrian-friendly sites well in advance. They also advise avoiding weekends due to noise and...
Based on 180 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Winter visits are quieter and less crowded, but many amenities like water and bathrooms are shut down. Summer is busy with family-friendly activities but can suffer from noise and theft issues.
Based on 180 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'The trails were awesome and well kept.'
2. 'Bathrooms were horrific, and the nearby train tracks ensure train whistles throughout the night.'
3. 'Cindy keeps the park meticulously clean—down to...
Based on 180 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific feedback includes: Site B12 praised for lake views but criticized for wind carrying odors from nearby toilets. Site A10 highlighted as spacious, scenic, and close to amenities but...
Based on 180 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility concerns are not explicitly documented in user feedback.
Based on 180 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcomed, with one user appreciating the spacious grounds for dogs to roam freely.
Based on 180 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025