About DAM SITE (FORT GIBSON LAKE)
Overview Dam Site Campground is situated below Fort Gibson Dam on the west bank of the Grand River in northeastern Oklahoma. The campground was severely damaged during the 2019 flood. None of the campsites offer water or electric. The campground is open for day use and primitive camping.The group shelter and Overlook shelter are only reservable through recreation.govRecreation The nearly 20,000-acre lake offers great boating and swimming opportunities. Anglers enjoy fishing for black bass, white bass, crappie and several varieties of catfish and panfish. The lake's 225 miles of shoreline are home to thousands of acres of public hunting lands, where white-tailed deer, bobwhite quail, mourning dove, duck, geese, cottontail rabbit and squirrel roam.Facilities This seasonal campground offers 23 primitive campsites. Large family groups can take advange of the group day use shelter within the park, as well as, one located at the Overlook. Natural Features Fort Gibson Lake sits nearly 8 miles from the confluence of the Grand and Arkansas Rivers. An oak-hickory woodland covers the rolling hills of the region. A wide variety of waterfowl migrates through the area annually and provides plenty of opportunities for bird watchers. Nearby Attractions Historic Fort Gibson, established in 1824, served as an important military post on the western frontier for close to 70 years. Now a National Historical Landmark, the site is open to the public year round. Volunteers reenact the lifestyle of the late 1800s during various events held throughout the year. A reconstructed log stockade, and original barracks, hospital, bakehouse and other structures still stand today.
How to Get There
Updated with Fort Gibson Dam closure.From Fort Gibson, Oklahoma, turn onto US-62 W. Turn right onto OK-16 E/Okay Rd/N York St and continue to follow OK-16 E. Continue onto OK-251A E. The park will be on your right at the bottom of the hill just before the dam.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 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 DAM SITE (FORT GIBSON LAKE)
Heading to DAM SITE (FORT GIBSON LAKE)? 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 DAM SITE (FORT GIBSON LAKE)?
No central reservation system listed for DAM SITE (FORT GIBSON LAKE). Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233480) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to DAM SITE (FORT GIBSON LAKE)?
Updated with Fort Gibson Dam closure.From Fort Gibson, Oklahoma, turn onto US-62 W. Turn right onto OK-16 E/Okay Rd/N York St and continue to follow OK-16 E. Continue onto OK-251A E. The park will be on your right at the bottom of the hill just before the dam.
How do I contact DAM SITE (FORT GIBSON LAKE)?
You can reach the park at phone: 918-682-4314.
References & Official Resources
