Fern Campground

Welcome to Fern Campground, your gateway to an unforgettable outdoor experience right here in Oklahoma! Nestled within the breathtaking Beavers Bend State Park, Fern Campground offers a serene and engaging escape for locals looking to reconnect with nature, enjoy recreational activities, and create lasting memories. Whether you're a seasoned camper with your RV, or you prefer the rustic charm of tent camping, Fern Campground provides a fantastic base to explore the magnificent natural wonders of southeastern Oklahoma.

For many Oklahomans, the Broken Bow area, and particularly Beavers Bend State Park, is synonymous with outdoor adventure and relaxation. Fern Campground stands out as a beloved spot within this popular destination, known for its picturesque setting and access to a wealth of activities. This article will provide you with a comprehensive overview of what makes Fern Campground a premier choice for your next Oklahoma adventure, from its convenient location to the services and features that make it a truly special place.

Fern Campground is ideally situated in Broken Bow, OK 74728, USA, placing it directly within the expansive and highly regarded Beavers Bend State Park. This prime location offers unparalleled access to the park's diverse landscapes, including towering pine and hardwood forests, the crystal-clear waters of Broken Bow Lake, and the scenic Mountain Fork River. The natural beauty of this area is consistently highlighted by visitors as one of its most compelling attributes, making it a true outdoor lover's paradise.

Accessibility to Fern Campground is generally straightforward, with well-maintained roads leading into Beavers Bend State Park. Once inside the park, you’ll find Fern Campground clearly signposted. While the general area has experienced significant growth and increased popularity in recent years, making for more traffic at times, the campground itself remains a peaceful retreat. It's worth noting that within Beavers Bend State Park, the roads can be winding, and some areas may feel "tight" for larger RVs, so planning your route and being aware of your vehicle's size is always a good idea. Despite some reviews mentioning headlight glare from passing cars due to the one-way road and evening bathroom traffic, the overall consensus is that the beauty and offerings of Fern Campground are well worth any minor inconveniences. The accessibility to the Mountain Fork River and Broken Bow Lake ensures that fishing, boating, and water activities are just a stone's throw away.

Fern Campground provides a range of essential services designed to make your camping experience comfortable and enjoyable:

• Potable water access at sites, ensuring you have fresh water for your stay.
• Toilets and shower areas, which are frequently praised by visitors for their cleanliness, particularly within the Fern camping area.
• Sewage hookups for RV sites, offering convenience for those with self-contained units.
• Picnic tables at each campsite, perfect for outdoor dining and gathering.
• Fire rings at each campsite, allowing for cozy campfires and s'mores under the stars.
• Electric hookups for both RV and tent sites, providing power for your devices and amenities.
• Waste dump stations within Beavers Bend State Park for easy waste disposal.
• First-come, first-served availability for some sites, though online reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak seasons, as the park is very popular.
• Leashed pets are welcome in the park and campgrounds, making it a great option for families with furry friends.

Fern Campground, being part of Beavers Bend State Park, boasts an array of features and highlights that draw visitors from across Oklahoma and beyond:

• Stunning Natural Scenery: The campground is set amidst a beautiful forested terrain with a mix of towering pine and hardwood trees, offering picturesque views and a true immersion in nature. The crystal-clear waters of the Mountain Fork River flow nearby, adding to the serene ambiance.

• River and Lake Access: Direct access to the Mountain Fork River provides excellent opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and, notably, year-round trout fishing. Broken Bow Lake, with its 14,220 surface acres and 180 miles of shoreline, is also easily accessible for boating, swimming, jet skiing, and scuba diving.

• Well-Maintained Facilities: Despite high visitor traffic, many reviews commend the cleanliness of the bathrooms and shower areas within Fern Campground, often overseen by friendly park staff. This attention to detail contributes significantly to a positive camping experience.

• Proximity to Park Amenities: Campers at Fern Campground have easy access to the broader offerings of Beavers Bend State Park, which include:

  • Miles of hiking and biking trails, including the challenging David Boren hiking trail.
  • A nature center with educational programs.
  • Horseback riding trails and horse rental services.
  • An 18-hole Cedar Creek Golf Course.
  • Concessions, gift shops, and a restaurant within the park.
  • Playgrounds for children.
  • Amphitheater for park programs and events.

• Diverse Wildlife: Visitors often report seeing a variety of wildlife, including deer, raccoons, and eagles, enhancing the natural experience.

• Friendly Staff: Many visitors have reported positive interactions with park staff, including a very friendly gentleman referred to as "Pops" who watches over the Fern camping area, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere.

While specific, ongoing promotions for Fern Campground itself might not be publicly advertised as distinct from general state park rates, it is part of Beavers Bend State Park. Oklahoma State Parks occasionally offer various discounts and deals that campers should inquire about when booking. It's always advisable to check the official TravelOK.com website for Beavers Bend State Park or contact the park office directly for any current promotions or special offers that may apply to your stay at Fern Campground. These could include:

• Seasonal discounts, particularly during off-peak times.
• Special rates for extended stays.
• Discounts for active military personnel, first responders, or educators (often seen for cabin rentals in the area, but worth inquiring for camping).
• Package deals that might combine camping with other park activities like golf or specific events.

Given the popularity of the Broken Bow area, especially for cabin rentals, many local businesses in the surrounding Hochatown area offer their own promotions for accommodations and activities, which could indirectly enhance your trip to Fern Campground. Always contact the park directly or visit the official Oklahoma State Parks booking portal to ensure you get the most accurate and up-to-date pricing and promotional information.

To learn more or to make reservations for Fern Campground within Beavers Bend State Park, you can use the following contact details:

Address: Broken Bow, OK 74728, USA (within Beavers Bend State Park)

Park Office Phone: 580-494-6300

Park Email: beaversbend@travelok.com

It is always recommended to call ahead or visit the official TravelOK.com website for Beavers Bend State Park to confirm availability, make reservations, and get the most current information regarding park policies, hours, and any potential alerts or important updates.

For Oklahomans seeking a genuine escape into nature without traveling across state lines, Fern Campground at Beavers Bend State Park stands out as an exceptionally suitable destination. Its proximity within Broken Bow makes it a convenient and accessible option for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, especially for those living in the southern or central parts of the state. The clear, engaging, and vibrant scenery of the Ouachita Mountains foothills provides a refreshing change of pace from urban environments, offering a true sense of being "away from it all."

The variety of activities available directly from or near Fern Campground caters to a wide range of interests and age groups. Whether your family enjoys casting a line for trout in the Mountain Fork River, exploring miles of scenic hiking trails, or simply relaxing by a campfire under a blanket of stars, there's something for everyone. The cleanliness of the facilities, as often praised by fellow campers, ensures a comfortable experience, addressing common concerns about public campgrounds. While some visitors have noted the area’s growing popularity and increased traffic, this also speaks to the consistent appeal and high quality of the experience offered. The fact that the campsites are well-maintained and often overseen by friendly staff further solidifies its appeal.

Moreover, supporting local Oklahoma state parks like Beavers Bend benefits our own communities and ensures these natural treasures remain well-preserved for future generations. Choosing Fern Campground means investing in local tourism and enjoying the best of what our state has to offer. It’s an opportunity to create cherished family memories, engage in healthy outdoor pursuits, and unwind in one of Oklahoma’s most beautiful natural settings. For anyone in Oklahoma looking for a refreshing, accessible, and high-quality camping experience, Fern Campground in Broken Bow is undoubtedly a top recommendation.