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Winding Stair Campground (OK)

Hodgen, Oklahoma · Le Flore County · Campground

Overview Winding Stair Campground sits along the Talimena Scenic Byway. The mountain-top campground offers scenic views from Emerald Vista located adjacent to the campground. During the Spring and Fall seasons, cool mountain temperatures enhance the camping experience. The campground is open year-round and serves as a …

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About Winding Stair Campground (OK)

Overview Winding Stair Campground sits along the Talimena Scenic Byway. The mountain-top campground offers scenic views from Emerald Vista located adjacent to the campground. During the Spring and Fall seasons, cool mountain temperatures enhance the camping experience. The campground is open year-round and serves as a trailhead for the Ouachita National Recreation Trail. All RV/Tent campsites in the campground have paved surfaces and gravel tent pads for setting tents up at the site. The Backpackers Camp, located adjacent to the campground offer designated tent pads for tent placement. This location is available on a first-come, first served basis only. Visitors are required to physiclaly arrive at the campground to purchase and claim a site. Once on-site, you can pay for your campsite(s) with cash, check, money order, or by scanning a QR code using the Recreaion.gov mobile app. Please download the Recreation.gov app prior to arrival as some remote areas have limited or no cell service. Recreation The Winding Stair Campground is the only campground in Oklahoma along with Talimena Scenic Byway that provides developed campsites. Located along the Ouachita National Recreation Trail (OT), the campground serves as a trailhead for the OT. Facilities Developed RV/Tent campsites, paved roadway and campsites, vault toilets. Currently there is not water available at the campground. No electricity available at campground. Natural Features Mountain top and valley views can be seen from Emerald Vista located adjacent to the campground. All campsites in the campground are well shaded. Contact Info For facility specific information, please call (918) 653-2991. Nearby Attractions Ouachita National Recreation Trail: https://friendsoftheouachita.org/wp/ Cedar Lake Recreation Area, Campground and Equestrian Camp Talimena Scenic Byway Charges & Cancellations Once payment is made on-site, we do not offer refunds or modifications.

What to Pack for Your Stay

Tuned to the live forecast for this park.

👔 What to Wear

  • 👕
    Moisture-wicking T-shirt
    Light color, breathable.
  • 🩳
    Lightweight shorts or pants
    Quick-dry preferred — sweat dries fast.
  • 🧢
    Brimmed sun hat
    Better than a cap for back-of-neck protection.
  • 🥾
    Trail runners
    Breathable mesh uppers.

🎒 What to Pack

  • 💧
    Water
    Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
  • 🍫
    High-energy snacks
    A snack for the trail.
  • 🧴
    Sun protection
    Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
  • 🩹
    First-aid kit
    Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
  • 🗺
    Offline map
    Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.

Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.

Plan Your Visit to Winding Stair Campground (OK)

Heading to Winding Stair Campground (OK)? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for Winding Stair Campground (OK)?

No central reservation system listed for Winding Stair Campground (OK). Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/10169585) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Winding Stair Campground (OK)?

The campground is located on the Talimena Scenic Drive (Oklahoma State Highway 1), two miles west of US Highway 259 junction.