Lake Murray State Park - Rock Tower Campground

For Oklahomans, the allure of the outdoors is deeply ingrained, and few places capture the spirit of our state's natural beauty quite like Lake Murray State Park. As Oklahoma's first and largest state park, Lake Murray offers a vast playground for recreation and relaxation, and nestled within its diverse landscape is Rock Tower Campground. This particular campground provides a fantastic opportunity for both RVers and tent campers to immerse themselves in the park's offerings, all while enjoying the serene beauty of the lake.

Oklahoma boasts a wide spectrum of camping experiences, from primitive backcountry sites to full-service resorts. Rock Tower Campground at Lake Murray State Park strikes a desirable balance, providing the convenience of modern amenities like full hookups alongside the natural tranquility of a lakeside setting. It’s designed for those who appreciate easy access to utilities while still desiring an authentic connection with nature, complete with picturesque views and opportunities for outdoor adventure.

This article is specifically tailored for local users in Oklahoma, aiming to provide a clear, engaging, and factual overview of Rock Tower Campground within the magnificent Lake Murray State Park. We'll delve into its strategic location, the comprehensive services it offers, and the key features that make it a compelling choice for your next camping trip in the Sooner State. By incorporating insights from real customer experiences and official park information, we aim to offer a balanced and realistic picture of what you can expect, helping you determine if Rock Tower Campground is the ideal spot for your memorable Oklahoma outdoor escape.

From its spacious sites to the wealth of recreational activities available within Lake Murray State Park, we'll cover the details that matter most to campers looking for a truly enriching experience near Ardmore.

Rock Tower Campground is a well-regarded camping area situated on the southeast corner of Lake Murray, within the expansive and highly popular Lake Murray State Park near Ardmore, Oklahoma. This campground is recognized for its beautiful setting, offering "Great view of the lake!" and a generally quiet atmosphere, making it a favorite among visitors.

The campground caters to both RV camping and tent camping, providing flexible options for various types of outdoor enthusiasts. The RV camping area is particularly appealing, as many campsites are located right on the lake, offering stunning waterfront views. The tent camping area, while set back slightly from the lake, is notably close to the historical "rock tower" from which the campground derives its name, adding a unique landmark to the camping experience. This tower, built in the 1930s, lends a sense of history to the site.

Rock Tower Campground is part of Lake Murray State Park, which is Oklahoma's first and largest state park, encompassing a vast 12,496 acres around the 5,728-acre man-made lake. This means that campers at Rock Tower have access to all the diverse attractions and activities that the entire state park offers. While the park is open year-round, Rock Tower Campground is particularly popular during the busy seasons, a testament to its appeal. It's a place where the convenience of full hookups meets the beauty and recreational abundance of one of Oklahoma's most cherished natural areas.

Rock Tower Campground is located within Lake Murray State Park, with its general address being Ardmore, OK 73401, USA. More specifically, it's found on the southeast corner of Lake Murray, which is positioned in Southern Oklahoma. This location offers exceptional accessibility while providing a serene lakeside environment.

Lake Murray State Park itself is strategically situated just a few miles south of the city of Ardmore, a significant hub in South Central Oklahoma. Ardmore's location along Interstate 35, a major north-south corridor, makes the park and its campgrounds, including Rock Tower, incredibly easy to reach for travelers from across Oklahoma and even neighboring states like Texas. This accessibility is a major convenience for RVers, allowing for smooth travel and direct routes to the park.

Within the state park, Rock Tower Campground is accessed via roads that lead directly to its designated areas. While the exact access road might be described as "Unnamed Road" in some general listings, it is a managed part of the state park's road network, ensuring navigability for RVs of various sizes. The campground's proximity to the lake allows for direct lake views from many RV sites, enhancing the natural experience. Furthermore, being part of Lake Murray State Park means campers are not far from the park's main office, the Lake Murray Lodge, marinas, and various trailheads. This blend of natural seclusion and convenient access to essential services and park amenities makes Rock Tower Campground an ideally situated destination for an Oklahoma camping adventure.

Rock Tower Campground, as part of Lake Murray State Park, offers a comprehensive suite of services designed to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience for both RVers and tent campers:

• Full Hookup RV Sites: All RV sites at Rock Tower Campground are equipped with full hookups, typically including 30/50 amp electrical connections, water, and sewer services. This provides maximum convenience for RV owners.
• Tent Camping Areas: Dedicated areas are available for tent camping, often near the distinctive Rock Tower, allowing for a more traditional camping experience.
• Restrooms with Showers: The campground provides restrooms with showers, offering modern and clean facilities for personal hygiene, a significant upgrade from more primitive sites.
• Dump Station: A sanitary dump station is available on-site for RV waste disposal.
• Pavilion: A communal pavilion is provided, suitable for group gatherings, picnics, or shelter from the elements.
• Picnic Tables and Grills/Fire Pits: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, and likely a grill or fire pit (subject to fire regulations) for cooking and campfires.
• Regular Patrols: As part of a state park, the campground benefits from regular park ranger patrols, enhancing security and ensuring adherence to park rules.

Rock Tower Campground within Lake Murray State Park boasts numerous features that make it a compelling destination for campers:

• Stunning Lakeside Views: A major highlight is the exceptional "Great view of the lake!" from many RV sites, offering picturesque sunrises and sunsets over Lake Murray.
• Spacious Campsites: The campsites are generally "pretty roomy," providing ample space for RVs, outdoor setups, and personal enjoyment, fostering a more relaxed atmosphere.
• Historic Rock Tower: The campground is named after a historic rock tower built in the 1930s, adding a unique landmark and a touch of historical interest to the area.
• Proximity to Park Attractions: As part of Lake Murray State Park, campers have easy access to a vast array of activities including:
  • Boating and Fishing: Lake Murray is renowned for its fishing (bass, catfish, crappie) and offers multiple boat ramps for easy water access. Boat rentals are often available at the Lake Murray Marina.
  • Hiking and Biking Trails: The park features over 30 miles of trails, such as the Buckhorn Hiking Trail and the paved Elephant Rock Trail, suitable for various skill levels. Some trails are shared with bikers and ATVs.
  • Swimming Beaches: Several designated swim beaches, like Sunset Beach, offer safe areas for swimming and sunbathing.
  • Tucker Tower Nature Center & Museum: A must-visit attraction providing insights into the park's natural and cultural history, with an observation deck offering panoramic lake views.
  • Lake Murray Golf Course: An 18-hole course set amidst the park's natural beauty.
  • ATV Trails: Dedicated trails are available for ATV and dirt bike enthusiasts.
  • Playground: A playground is available for children, though its specific location might require a short drive from some campsites.
  • Wildlife Viewing & Stargazing: The park's natural setting provides opportunities for bird watching (including Oklahoma's state bird, the scissor-tailed flycatcher) and excellent stargazing due to low light pollution.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are generally welcome in Oklahoma State Parks, allowing families to bring their furry companions (adherence to leash laws and cleanup is required).

As a professional content writer, I can confirm that Oklahoma State Parks, including Lake Murray State Park, occasionally offer various promotions and discounts. While specific, short-term deals for Rock Tower Campground can vary, common offers to look out for might include:

• Military Discount: Lake Murray State Park offers a 10% base rate discount on lodge, cabins, RV, and tent campsites for active military and veterans. This can be accessed using a specific promo code (e.g., MIL when booking online via TravelOK.com).
• Seasonal Rates: Camping fees may vary depending on the season, with potential lower rates during off-peak times.
• Online Booking Specials: Always check the official TravelOK website for any exclusive online booking incentives.
• Daily Parking Fees: Be aware that daily parking fees (starting at $10 per vehicle per day) are required throughout Lake Murray State Park. This is a general park policy rather than a specific campground fee, but it affects the overall cost of your visit.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on current promotions, specific camping fees, and availability at Rock Tower Campground, it is always best to visit the official TravelOK.com website or contact Lake Murray State Park directly using the contact information provided below.

For inquiries, reservations, or to learn more about Lake Murray State Park - Rock Tower Campground, please use the following contact details:

Address: Ardmore, OK 73401, USA (within Lake Murray State Park)

Park Office Phone: (580) 223-4044

For all camping reservations, it is highly recommended to make them online through the official TravelOK.com website, which is the primary booking portal for Oklahoma State Parks. If you have specific questions about the park, the campground, or need assistance with reservations, calling the park office directly is the best course of action.

Lake Murray State Park - Rock Tower Campground offers an exceptional and highly suitable camping experience for locals across Oklahoma. Its combination of prime location, comprehensive amenities, and a wealth of recreational opportunities makes it an ideal destination for various types of outdoor enthusiasts.

For RV owners, the full hookup sites at Rock Tower provide unmatched convenience, allowing for a comfortable and extended stay without sacrificing the essence of outdoor living. Tent campers, too, will find dedicated spaces to set up camp and enjoy the natural surroundings. The added benefit of modern restrooms with showers elevates the comfort level, a welcome feature after a day of exploration.

What truly sets Rock Tower Campground apart for Oklahomans is its integration within Lake Murray State Park. This means that campers have direct access to one of the state's most cherished natural playgrounds. Whether you're an angler casting lines into Lake Murray, a hiker exploring the scenic trails, a boater enjoying the clear waters, or a family seeking a place with a playground and historical sites like Tucker Tower, the park offers something for everyone. The generally quiet atmosphere, combined with the stunning lake views, provides a tranquil escape that feels both accessible and immersive. For those seeking a well-rounded and memorable camping adventure in Southern Oklahoma, Rock Tower Campground at Lake Murray State Park stands out as a top choice, embodying the best of what our state's outdoors has to offer.