About BIRCH COVE
Overview Birch Cove is located at Birch Lake in Osage County, Oklahoma. Cradled in valleys surrounded by rolling, forested hills, the lake is a perfect setting for nature lovers and other outdoor enthusiasts. The lake is small yet scenic and offers several excellent outdoor recreational opportunities for year-round enjoyment, such as fishing, boating, swimming, horseback riding and picnicking.Recreation Birch Lake is popular for fishing and hunting, as well as family fun and relaxation. Fish species available for the angler include largemouth bass, walleye, spotted bass, smallmouth bass, hybrid striped bass, black and white crappie, channel and flathead catfish and sunfish. Principal game species for hunting enthusiasts include bobwhite quail, mourning dove, fox squirrel, gray squirrel, cottontail rabbit and whitetail deer.Facilities With a boat ramp, fishing dock, playground, and a swim beach, Birch Cove has something for everyone. All campsites are on the waterfront or within a short walk from the lake. There are also two group camping shelters that can be reserved; one shelter accommodates 6 rv/trailers, 100 people and 21 vehicles, and the other accommodates 4 rv/trailers, 60 people and 11 vehicles. Natural Features Birch Cove Campground is forested, and most sites have a mix of sun and shade. The 1,137-acre lake is part of Birch Creek, a tributary of Bird Creek. The shoreline ranges from gentle to steep slopes with numerous rock outcrops. The hilltops and upper slopes are generously forested with small hardwood trees, primarily post oak, blackjack, other oaks, hickory, hackberry and elm. Numerous species of grasses and wildflowers bloom in spring and fall. Forests, tallgrass prairie and shrub ecosystems surround the lake area. Contact Info For facility specific information, please call (918) 847-2220.
How to Get There
From Tulsa, take Highway 75 north to Hwy 20 west. First light in Skiatook turn right (north) on Hwy 11 to Barnsdall for 19 miles. Take a left on West Chestnut Avenue, then left on South Eighth Street at T. Travel 3 miles and Birch Cove entrance will be on the right.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →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 BIRCH COVE
Heading to BIRCH COVE? 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 BIRCH COVE?
No central reservation system listed for BIRCH COVE. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233451) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to BIRCH COVE?
From Tulsa, take Highway 75 north to Hwy 20 west. First light in Skiatook turn right (north) on Hwy 11 to Barnsdall for 19 miles. Take a left on West Chestnut Avenue, then left on South Eighth Street at T. Travel 3 miles and Birch Cove entrance will be on the right.
How do I contact BIRCH COVE?
You can reach the park at phone: 918-847-2220.
References & Official Resources
