Pettit Bay

For us Oklahomans who revel in the beauty of our state's natural landscapes, Pettit Bay Public Use Area on Lake Tenkiller is a name that resonates with fond memories and the promise of serene escapes. Often hailed as "Oklahoma's clear water paradise," Lake Tenkiller provides an idyllic backdrop for this highly regarded campground. Pettit Bay offers a unique blend of robust amenities, breathtaking scenery, and a genuinely welcoming atmosphere, making it a premier destination for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and even our four-legged friends. From enjoying stunning sunsets to taking advantage of accessible facilities, this Corps of Engineers operated site truly stands out as a local gem, inviting us to unwind, explore, and create lasting memories right here in Oklahoma's Green Country.

Pettit Bay Public Use Area is conveniently located at RT 1 BOX 259, Pettit Bay Public Use Area, Park Hill, OK 74451, USA. This prime address places it directly on the eastern shores of Tenkiller Ferry Lake, nestled within the beautiful foothills of the Ozark Mountains in Cherokee County. For those traveling from various parts of Oklahoma, reaching Pettit Bay is straightforward and scenic. Typically, you can access the park by taking Highway 82 south from Tahlequah for about 8.25 miles, then turning right onto Indian Road for two miles, followed by a left turn and another mile southeast on a paved access road. The journey itself offers a glimpse of the lush, dense oak-hickory forests and rolling hills that characterize this part of our state. The ease of access, combined with the immediate immersion into a tranquil, natural setting upon arrival, makes Pettit Bay an ideal destination for both spontaneous weekend getaways and more extended vacations, ensuring more time for relaxation and recreation by the pristine waters of Lake Tenkiller.

Pettit Bay Public Use Area, managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, is exceptionally well-equipped, providing a comprehensive array of services that cater to a diverse range of campers. The focus here is on comfort, convenience, and a high standard of maintenance, ensuring a pleasant stay for everyone. Here’s what campers can expect:

• Campsites with Electric Hookups: The campground offers numerous sites with electric hookups, including both 30-amp and 50-amp options, making it perfect for RVs, converted trailers (like a "two horse trailer" camper), and even tent campers needing power. Non-electric sites are also available.
• Accessible Power Outlets: The availability of "normal everyday plug" in addition to camper hookups highlights the thoughtful provision of power for various needs.
• Modern Restroom Facilities: Pettit Bay features flush toilets and hot showers in well-maintained "full bathrooms" and "comfort stations," ensuring a clean and refreshing experience after a day of outdoor activities.
• Water Hydrants: Conveniently located water hydrants provide easy access to potable water throughout the park.
• Dump Station: An on-site dump station is available for RVers, allowing for proper and responsible waste disposal.
• Boat Ramps with Courtesy Docks: Excellent "easy access to the water" is provided via multiple boat ramps, complete with courtesy docks, making it simple to launch and retrieve boats, kayaks, and other watercraft.
• Swim Beach: A designated swim beach offers a safe and enjoyable area for swimming in the clear waters of Lake Tenkiller, perfect for families.
• Playground: A dedicated playground area provides entertainment for younger campers, adding to the family-friendly appeal of the campground.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Pits/Grills: Each campsite typically includes "large tables," "fire pits and standing grills," ideal for outdoor cooking, gathering for meals, and enjoying campfires under the stars.
• Trash Dumpsters: Readily available trash dumpsters ensure a clean environment, encouraging campers to dispose of their waste responsibly.
• Accessibility Features: The park is noted for its accessible paths, making it "great to drive around on their paths" even for those using electric wheelchairs, demonstrating a commitment to inclusivity.
• Assistance with Discounts: The staff ("people at the gate") are "AWSOME" and helpful, even assisting visitors like "an old soldier" in getting an "Access Pass" card for disabled veterans, showcasing a supportive and knowledgeable team.
• Adjacent Marina: A marina with concessions is often located adjacent to the campground, providing convenient access to supplies, boat rentals, and sometimes even floating restaurants.

Pettit Bay Public Use Area is celebrated for a variety of distinctive features and highlights that consistently draw campers back to its serene shores. These elements create a truly memorable and highly enjoyable outdoor experience for Oklahomans:

• Spectacular Lake Views and Sunsets: The "beautiful scenery and the view of the lake is spectacular" are frequently praised, with the "beautiful view of the sunset" being a particular highlight. The vistas over Lake Tenkiller are simply breathtaking.
• Crystal-Clear Water: Lake Tenkiller is famously known as "Oklahoma's clear water paradise," and Pettit Bay offers direct access to these pristine waters. This clarity makes it ideal for swimming, fishing, and even scuba diving, which the lake is known for due to its high visibility.
• Shaded, Spacious Sites: Campers love the "mature trees and shaded sites close to the lake." This natural canopy provides comfort from the sun, while "plenty of space" and "plenty of parking spots" contribute to a comfortable and uncrowded feeling within the campground.
• Peaceful and Quiet Atmosphere: Described as "very peaceful and quiet," the campground offers a tranquil escape from everyday noise, fostering genuine relaxation and a deeper connection with nature.
• Excellent Accessibility: The park's commitment to accessibility is a major highlight, with paved roads and paths that are "great to drive around on" for individuals with mobility challenges, ensuring an inclusive outdoor experience.
• Affordable Rates & Veteran Discounts: The campground is noted for being "affordable too." The staff's willingness to help "an old soldier save money" by guiding them to obtain a national "Access Pass" for disabled veterans underscores the park's commitment to offering value and supporting our service members.
• Multi-Purpose Recreation: Beyond camping, the area offers fantastic opportunities for "swimming, fishing, boat ramp," and general enjoyment of the lake, making it a versatile destination for various outdoor activities. The surrounding area also offers hiking and wildlife viewing.
• Well-Maintained Facilities: Despite one comment about roads needing repair, the overwhelming sentiment points to "well kept" grounds and "clean bathrooms" with "hot showers," indicating a strong effort by the Corps of Engineers to maintain high standards.
• Changing Seasons Beauty: One reviewer notes it's an "awesome place to be as the seasons change," suggesting the beauty of the park transforms throughout the year, offering unique experiences in spring blooms, summer vibrancy, fall foliage, and winter tranquility.

For those ready to plan their next adventure at Pettit Bay Public Use Area, here is the contact information:

Address: RT 1 BOX 259, Pettit Bay Public Use Area, Park Hill, OK 74451, USA

Phone: (918) 487-5252

Mobile Phone: +1 918-487-5252

It is always recommended to contact the Corps of Engineers Lake Office directly for the most current information regarding campsite availability, reservations (which can often be made through Recreation.gov), and any specific policies, especially concerning the "Access Pass" or other discounts. Given its popularity, particularly during peak seasons, making reservations in advance is highly advisable to secure your preferred spot at this magnificent lakeside destination.

In conclusion, Pettit Bay Public Use Area is an absolutely stellar choice for Oklahomans seeking an enriching, peaceful, and accessible outdoor experience. It's perfectly suited for locals because it offers an escape to a genuinely beautiful natural setting right in our own backyard – Lake Tenkiller, "Oklahoma's clear water paradise." The campground provides an impressive array of amenities, including reliable power, clean modern restrooms with hot showers, and easy access to the lake for all water activities. The welcoming and helpful staff, particularly in assisting veterans with discount passes, adds a layer of community and appreciation. Furthermore, its demonstrated accessibility ensures that everyone, regardless of mobility, can enjoy the "beautiful surroundings and well kept" grounds. Whether you're a family looking for a fun and affordable getaway, an angler seeking prime fishing spots, or simply someone yearning for quiet moments watching a stunning sunset, Pettit Bay offers a truly comprehensive and memorable camping experience. It’s a testament to the natural treasures we have in Oklahoma, beckoning us to return season after season.

Pettit Bay

RT 1 BOX 259,, Pettit Bay Public Use Area, Park Hill, OK 74451, USA