Applegate Cove Campground

For Oklahomans seeking a tranquil, waterfront camping experience that perfectly balances natural beauty with essential amenities, **Applegate Cove Campground** is a premier destination. Located in the picturesque landscape of Eastern Oklahoma, this campground is nestled on the banks of the **Robert S. Kerr Reservoir (Arkansas River - Robert S. Kerr Pool)**. Managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE), Applegate Cove is known for its serene, well-maintained environment and its direct access to some of the state’s finest fishing and boating waters.

This is a medium-sized campground, featuring approximately 27 sites that cater to a mix of tent campers and recreational vehicle users. The setting is heavily treed with mature oak and hickory, providing abundant shade and a secluded feel, which is highly valued by local campers. The sites offer breathtaking views, with many overlooking the expansive reservoir, making the customer-reported **stunning sunsets** a nightly highlight. Applegate Cove is explicitly designed to be **family-friendly**, offering a playground and picnic areas, making it an excellent choice for a weekend getaway or a longer family vacation. Its focus on utility—providing key hookups and a convenient boat launch—makes it a top-tier choice for Oklahomans who love the water.

Applegate Cove Campground is situated in Sequoyah County, near the community of Gans, Oklahoma. It is strategically placed on the **Robert S. Kerr Reservoir**, which is part of the extensive McClellan-Kerr Arkansas River Navigation System. For many Oklahoma residents, the location is a straightforward drive, easily accessible from major highways like US-59. The scenic route, which guides visitors through the Cookson Hills, prepares campers for the tranquility of the reservoir setting.

While the nearest major town, Sallisaw, is about eight miles away for quick supply runs, the campground itself feels wonderfully remote. Directions are typically clear: Head south on US-59 out of Sallisaw, turn onto E 1140 Rd, and follow the road to the cove. The location’s isolation contributes to the quiet atmosphere frequently praised by visitors.

Importantly, the campground is designed with accessibility in mind, demonstrating a commitment to serving all Oklahoma citizens:

• **Wheelchair accessible entrance** at main facilities.
• **Wheelchair accessible parking lot** at the main recreational and facility areas.

The facilities at Applegate Cove Campground are well-rounded, ensuring a comfortable stay whether you are camping in a tent or a large RV. The campground emphasizes cleanliness and utility for its guests.

• Campsites: The park offers 27 designated campsites, including both **tent sites** and **RV sites**. Many sites feature level, cement slabs for easy parking.
• RV Hookups: Sites are equipped with **RV electric hookup** (typically 30-amp service) and **RV water hookup** (running water) at the site pedestals.
• Sanitary Facilities: A **public restroom** and **public shower** facility (often referred to as a comfort station) with **flush toilets** and fresh, running water is available and maintained by the COE.
• Dump Station: A sanitary **dump station** is provided near the entrance of the campground for RV guests.
• Picnic and Cooking: Each site includes a **picnic table** and a **barbecue grill** or fire ring for outdoor cooking and campfires.
• Group Use: A designated **day-use group picnic shelter** is available for larger gatherings or events, such as family reunions or community picnics.
• Pet Policy: **Dogs are allowed**, provided they are kept on a leash and owners follow standard clean-up regulations, making it easy to travel with pets.
• Reservations: While some sites may be available on a first-come, first-served basis, reservations for many sites are typically managed online through the federal **Recreation.gov** system, highly recommended for securing a spot during peak season.

The true highlights of Applegate Cove are centered on the water and the amenities designed for family recreation, solidifying its reputation as a superior Oklahoma campground.

• **Robert S. Kerr Reservoir Access:** The primary highlight is the campground's setting on the reservoir, offering over 43,000 surface acres of water and 250 miles of shoreline for exploration.
• **Excellent Water Sports:** A **boat ramp and courtesy dock** are provided within the campground for easy launching of all watercraft, promoting boating, kayaking, and canoeing.
• **Outstanding Fishing:** The reservoir is renowned for its **outstanding fishing opportunities**, particularly for large **Crappie, Sand Bass, Catfish, and Black Bass**, often reaching record size. Guests have plenty of chances to fish right from the bank or from a boat.
• **Family Playground:** The park is considered **Good for kids** and features a designated **playground** area, complete with **swings and slides**, providing a safe and fun area for children to play. The park is also noted as being **Good for kids birthday** celebrations.
• **Scenic Picnics:** Designated **picnic areas** and the general beauty of the sites provide a perfect backdrop for outdoor dining and enjoying the forest setting.
• **Hiking and Nature:** The surrounding area, nestled in the Cookson Hills, offers a variety of hiking and nature trails that wind along the shoreline, ideal for wildlife viewing and scenic walks.
• **Stunning Sunsets:** Customer reviews universally praise the **beautiful sunsets** visible over the lake, providing a spectacular, memorable end to every day.

For the most accurate and current information, reservations, and gate hours (which are typically 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM), Oklahoma residents should use the phone number associated with the Robert S. Kerr Reservoir Project Office.

Physical Address: E 1140 Rd, Gans, OK 74936, USA

Project Office Phone: (918) 799-5843

Reservations: Recreation.gov (Search: Applegate Cove)

**Note:** It is advisable to call the Project Office for information on site availability outside of the main reservation season, or to inquire about any current restrictions.

Applegate Cove Campground is absolutely worth choosing for Oklahoma families, boaters, and anglers who desire a high-quality, amenity-rich experience without the high costs of a private resort. It stands out because of its exceptional value and its perfect blend of recreation and relaxation.

The primary reason to choose Applegate Cove is its **superior water access and fishing**. The dedicated boat ramp and the reputation of Robert S. Kerr Reservoir for massive fish populations make it a top-tier choice for any serious angler or boating enthusiast. Secondly, it is one of the most authentically **family-friendly** campgrounds in the region, featuring two separate playgrounds that keep younger campers entertained, making it a stress-free environment for parents. Finally, the COE’s commitment to providing level, comfortable sites with **water and electric hookups**, plus the convenience of a clean bathhouse and dump station, means you get a highly serviced camping experience at a national standard, nestled in the beautiful, mature woods of Eastern Oklahoma. If you are looking for a beautiful, quiet, and reliable base camp for fishing, swimming, or simply soaking in a stunning lakeside sunset with the family, Applegate Cove should be at the very top of your list.

Applegate Cove Campground

E 1140 Rd, Gans, OK 74936, USA