Camp Willowswish, Ardmore, OK

Are you an Oklahoman looking for a truly unique and vibrant camping experience, where camaraderie, celebration, and the beauty of Lake Murray come together? Then Camp Willowswish, nestled in Ardmore, Oklahoma, at 1969 Dukes Forest Rd, is a destination you absolutely must discover. More than just a campground, Camp Willowswish is an ongoing, long-standing tradition—a twice-yearly gathering at Lake Murray for the LGBTQ+ community and their allies. It's a place where everyone is welcome to join in the fun, fellowship, and festivities, creating an atmosphere that’s both welcoming and unforgettable.

For over 55 years, Camp Willowswish has been a beacon of equality and good times in Oklahoma. What started as a small gathering of friends has evolved into a well-loved event, known for its lively spirit and inclusive environment. Imagine spending your days surrounded by friendly faces, enjoying a range of activities, and your evenings under the starry Oklahoma sky, often accompanied by music, laughter, and dazzling entertainment. This campout is often described as "glamping" due to its mix of rustic charm and essential amenities, promising a comfortable and highly entertaining outdoor adventure.

In this comprehensive article, we aim to provide you, our fellow Oklahomans, with an in-depth look at Camp Willowswish. We'll explore its location within the stunning Lake Murray State Park, detail the available camping options and facilities, and highlight the unique features and events that make it such a special gathering. You’ll also find essential contact information to help you plan your visit. Our goal is to paint a clear picture of this incredible event, encouraging you to experience the warmth, fun, and fellowship that define Camp Willowswish.

Ardmore, Oklahoma, and specifically Lake Murray, serve as the picturesque backdrop for Camp Willowswish. Lake Murray State Park is one of Oklahoma's largest and most scenic state parks, known for its pristine spring-fed lake and lush woodlands. Camp Willowswish's location within the state park ensures campers have access to gorgeous clear waters, perfect for swimming and other lake activities, just a five-minute walk from the main camp area. While originally in a more primitive site on the Southside of Lake Murray for its first 46 years, the event recently moved to a more accessible area within the state park that offers better facilities and is considered a safer location, ensuring full cooperation with state law and lake rangers. This blend of natural beauty and improved infrastructure makes for a seamless and enjoyable camping experience. Being halfway between Oklahoma City and Dallas also makes it an easily accessible meeting point for many attendees from across the region, solidifying its role as a key gathering spot for the LGBTQ+ community and its friends in the heart of Oklahoma.

What truly sets Camp Willowswish apart is its vibrant community and the unique blend of entertainment and camaraderie it fosters. It’s a place where "all fun people of any gender or orientation are welcome," creating an atmosphere of acceptance and joy. The event's rich history, evolving from a "salty" past to a more inclusive, yet still incredibly fun, gathering, speaks volumes about its enduring spirit. Attendees speak of it as a "meaningful and welcoming event," promising "a ton of fun." The organizers put immense effort into planning various nightly and daily activities, ensuring there's always something engaging happening. From themed parties and games to talent showcases, Camp Willowswish goes far beyond typical camping, offering a social and celebratory experience that keeps people coming back year after year. The commitment to creating such a lively and supportive environment is a testament to the community that has grown around this remarkable campout.

Whether you’re a long-time supporter or a curious newcomer, Camp Willowswish offers a unique opportunity to connect, celebrate, and unwind in a beautiful Oklahoma setting. The flexibility of camping options, from RV pads with hookups to unserviced tent sites, means there’s a place for everyone. The spirit of shared experience, from community bonfires to group games at the ballfield, creates a friendly atmosphere where strangers become friends. We invite you to continue reading to learn more about the amenities and events that make Camp Willowswish an unmissable part of Oklahoma's vibrant community calendar.

Location and Accessibility:

Camp Willowswish is held at 1969 Dukes Forest Rd, Ardmore, OK 73401, USA, within the scenic Lake Murray State Park. This location places it directly amidst the natural beauty of one of Oklahoma's largest and most popular state parks. The campout is situated conveniently close to the lake, with a "gorgeous clear spring fed lake" just a five-minute walk away, providing easy access for swimming and other water activities. Its geographical position, approximately halfway between Oklahoma City and Dallas, makes it an accessible meeting point for attendees from both metropolitan areas and beyond. While offering a "hideaway" feel within the park, the event utilizes areas with more facilities for attendee comfort and safety. Although specific roads within the state park are not detailed, the general accessibility to Lake Murray via major routes ensures a straightforward journey to the campground area for participants arriving by RV or car.

Services Offered:

RV Pad Sites: 35 RV pad sites available with electric and water hookups (Site #1 also has 50A service and sewer). Reservations are taken for these sites.
Unserviced Tent/RV Sites: Hundreds of first-come, first-served unserviced tent/RV sites available, with many within 100 feet of an electrical outlet.
Overflow/Generator Area: Designated area for dry camping, tent camping, and generator use for self-contained RVs, at tent site rates.
Modern Restroom and Shower Facilities: Available for all campers, including primitive and tent campers, offering hot showers and flushing toilets.
Community Bonfire: A central gathering point for socializing and enjoying the evenings.
Party Pavilion: A designated area for events, gatherings, and activities.
Meet & Greet Meal: A community meal, typically held on Thursday afternoon, fostering camaraderie.
Private Cove Access: A private cove north of the campground is available for swimming and relaxation.
Parking: Plenty of available parking, most very near to campsites, with strict rules for keeping vehicles off paved roadways.
Free Wi-Fi: Available in some central areas, though not specified as site-specific for all campers.

Features / Highlights:

LGBTQ+ Friendly Event: A welcoming and inclusive environment for all LGBTQ+ and LGBTQ+ friendly campers.
Twice-Yearly Campouts: Spring Camp (last weekend of April) and Fall Camp (weekend after Labor Day).
Annual Miss Camp America Willowswish Pageant: A "twisted and fun drag pageant" held on Saturday night during the fall campout.
Diverse Activities: Includes dancing, karaoke, drag shows, various games, contests, and themed parties (e.g., Rainbow Undies/Black Light Paint Party).
Olympic Style Games Competition: Held on Saturday during the anniversary event, adding a competitive and fun element.
Community Atmosphere: Known for being a very friendly group, with a strong emphasis on fellowship and visiting with neighbors.
"Glamping" Experience: Offers more facilities than primitive camping, providing comfort and amenities.
Beautiful Lakeside Setting: Direct access to a gorgeous clear spring-fed lake for swimming and relaxation.
Long-Standing Tradition: Celebrates over 55 years of ongoing campouts, showcasing its rich history and enduring popularity.
Flexible Stay Options: Campers can stay for the entire duration or just a few nights, with flexible arrival and departure.
On-site Sewage Dump Station: Convenient for RV users.

Promotions or Special Offers:

As a professional content writer, I do not have access to real-time, specific promotional offers for Camp Willowswish. Their official website indicates that reservations for RV pad sites open in August for the Fall Camp, and that "additional people are $10 for the party pass" on top of the site fee. Tent campers can purchase the entire duration for a discount, or just a few nights. For the most accurate and up-to-date information on rates, any early bird specials, group discounts, or package deals, it is highly recommended to visit the official Camp Willowswish website (willowswish.org) or contact them directly. They encourage inquiries to stay informed about their events and registration details. Given the nature of a recurring event, specific promotions might be announced closer to each campout date.

Contact Information:

Address: 1969 Dukes Forest Rd, Ardmore, OK 73401, USA

Phone: (405) 283-6970

Mobile Phone: +1 405-283-6970

Email: campwillowswish@gmail.com

Website: www.willowswish.org

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Oklahomans seeking an escape that transcends the ordinary camping trip, Camp Willowswish at Lake Murray in Ardmore offers a truly unique and compelling experience, making it exceptionally suitable for locals. Its deep roots in Oklahoma history, spanning over 55 years, have cultivated a vibrant and welcoming community right here in our state. This means that locals don't just attend an event; they become part of a living tradition, a testament to enduring friendship and celebration within the LGBTQ+ community and its allies. The geographical convenience, being situated halfway between Oklahoma City and Dallas, makes it an accessible weekend getaway for many, allowing for quick travel and maximizing leisure time by the beautiful Lake Murray.

What truly makes Camp Willowswish ideal for locals is its unparalleled atmosphere of inclusivity and festivity. It's a place where "all fun people of any gender or orientation are welcome," fostering an environment of genuine acceptance and joy that can be hard to find elsewhere. For Oklahomans looking for a space to be themselves, connect with like-minded individuals, and forge new friendships, Camp Willowswish provides that liberating haven. The diverse array of activities—from the "twisted and fun drag pageant" and Olympic-style games to themed parties and karaoke—ensures that there's never a dull moment. This rich calendar of events transforms a simple campout into a full-fledged social and celebratory festival, offering something exciting for everyone to participate in or simply enjoy from the sidelines.

Furthermore, the blend of rustic charm with convenient amenities enhances the local experience. The presence of RV sites with electric and water hookups, along with hundreds of unserviced tent sites, caters to various camping styles and preferences, ensuring that locals with different equipment can find their perfect spot. The availability of modern restroom and shower facilities, including hot showers, adds a touch of comfort that elevates the "glamping" aspect, making it a more comfortable experience than traditional primitive camping. The dedicated community bonfire and party pavilion serve as central hubs for socialization, encouraging interaction and strengthening the bonds within the local and visiting community. The direct access to Lake Murray's "gorgeous clear spring fed lake" provides opportunities for swimming and water activities, allowing locals to fully embrace the natural beauty of their home state.

In conclusion, Camp Willowswish is far more than a campground; it is a lively, inclusive, and deeply rooted Oklahoma institution. Its unique combination of historical significance, vibrant community, diverse entertainment, and practical amenities makes it an ideal choice for locals seeking an outdoor experience that is both fun and profoundly welcoming. We encourage all Oklahomans, especially those looking for a community-driven and celebratory escape, to join the festivities at Camp Willowswish. Get your friends together, get your reservation in, and prepare for "a ton of fun" right here at Lake Murray in Ardmore. It's a meaningful event that promises unforgettable memories and a true sense of belonging.