Redbud Bay Campground

Hey there, fellow Oklahomans! If you're like many of us, the call of the lake, the quiet of the trees, and the simple pleasure of a campfire are irresistible. While Oklahoma boasts many fantastic campgrounds, some offer a more rustic, intimate experience that truly allows you to connect with nature. Redbud Bay Campground, located on the beautiful Oologah Lake, is one such place. It's not a sprawling resort, but rather a small, secluded gem that appeals to those who prioritize peace, great views, and direct access to fishing and the lake's rocky shoreline.

This article is specifically for you, our local Oklahoma residents, to provide a clear, engaging, and factual overview of Redbud Bay Campground. We'll delve into its unique location, the essential services it provides, its distinctive features and highlights, and ultimately, why this particular spot might be the perfect fit for your next quiet escape or fishing adventure right here in our beloved Sooner State. Get ready to explore a campground where simplicity and natural beauty take center stage.

Location and Accessibility

Redbud Bay Campground is situated on OK-88, near Claremore, OK 74017, USA. More precisely, it's located about a mile south of the Oologah Lake dam on Highway 88. This places it directly on the shores of Oologah Lake, a large reservoir popular for a variety of water activities in northeastern Oklahoma. Its proximity to Claremore, and being less than 30 miles from Tulsa, makes it a highly accessible spot for a quick escape or a weekend trip without long hours on the road.

As an Army Corps of Engineers campground, Redbud Bay is part of a system designed to provide public access to recreational areas around the lake. While the main address is Claremore, it's very much connected to the Oologah Lake area. Access to the campground is straightforward via Highway 88. However, it's important for visitors, especially those with RVs, to note that some sites are described as "unlevel" or "very sloped." Campers should come prepared with leveling equipment. The campground is small, with only about 10 to 11 sites, which contributes to its secluded feel. Its proximity to Hawthorn Bluff Campground (less than a mile across the dam) is a significant advantage, as Hawthorn Bluff offers additional facilities like flush toilets, a shower house, and a dump station, which Redbud Bay lacks directly on-site.

Services Offered

Redbud Bay Campground provides a more rustic experience compared to full-service RV parks, focusing on essential hook-ups and the natural environment.

• Water & Electric Hook-ups: All 11 sites at Redbud Bay are equipped with both 30-amp electric and water hook-ups. This is a key convenience, allowing campers to power their RVs or tents and have access to fresh water directly at their site.

• Pit Toilets/Vault Toilets: The campground features vault toilets (also described as "old hole in ground style"). While basic, reviews indicate they are kept clean by the camp attendant, which is a significant positive for a primitive facility.

• No On-site Dump Station: There is no dump station directly at Redbud Bay. Campers must drive to the nearby Hawthorn Bluff Campground for RV dumping, which is located less than a mile away across the dam and can be used at no additional fee.

• No Shower House: Redbud Bay does not have a shower house. Campers will need to drive to Hawthorn Bluff Campground to access flush toilets and showers, again at no additional cost.

• Camp Attendant: A camp attendant (named Julia in one review) is often present and noted for being very nice and helpful, providing a friendly and personal touch to the camping experience.

Features / Highlights

• Great View and Rocky Shoreline: A major highlight is the fantastic view of Oologah Lake and the unique rocky shoreline. This offers a different aesthetic from sandy beaches, providing interesting geological features for exploration and beautiful photo opportunities.

• Secluded and Small Size: With only 11 spots, Redbud Bay is a very small and secluded campground. This makes it ideal for those seeking peace and quiet, away from larger, more bustling camping areas. It fosters a more intimate and tranquil outdoor experience.

• Direct Lake Access for Fishing: Redbud Bay is particularly suited for fishing enthusiasts, offering direct access to Oologah Lake, which is known for its fishing opportunities. The rocky shoreline may provide good fishing spots right from the bank.

• Proximity to Hawthorn Bluff Amenities: While Redbud Bay is rustic, its close proximity (less than a mile) to Hawthorn Bluff Campground means campers can easily access modern amenities like flush toilets, showers, playgrounds, a swimming beach, and a dump station without extra fees. This offers the best of both worlds: a quiet site with access to convenience.

• Natural Exploration for Older Kids: The rocky shoreline and "crawling things" mentioned in reviews suggest a natural environment that can be engaging for older children who enjoy exploring nature, collecting rocks, and observing insects.

• Connection to Will Rogers Country Centennial Trail: Oologah Lake is home to the 18-mile Will Rogers Country Centennial Trail, which runs along the lakeshore through oak-hickory woods and open pastures. While not directly at Redbud Bay, access to this trail is generally nearby, offering hiking and nature exploration opportunities.

• Close to Will Rogers Birthplace Ranch: The historic Dog Iron Ranch, birthplace of Oklahoma's beloved Will Rogers, is a nearby attraction, offering a living history museum experience.

Contact Information

Address: OK-88, Claremore, OK 74017, USA

Phone: (918) 443-2250

Mobile Phone: +1 918-443-2250

For reservations and specific inquiries, contacting the campground directly via phone is recommended. You can also visit Recreation.gov for reservation options and more detailed information, as it is managed by the Army Corps of Engineers.

Conclusion: Why This Place is Suitable for Locals

For us Oklahomans, Redbud Bay Campground on Oologah Lake offers a compelling and particularly suitable option for a specific kind of outdoor experience. It's ideal for those who truly appreciate the rugged, less-developed side of nature, combined with the convenience of essential hook-ups and nearby amenities.

Its primary appeal for locals lies in its intimate, secluded nature. In a state with many popular recreational areas, finding a small campground with only a handful of sites offers a rare sense of peace and quiet. This allows for a deeper connection with the natural surroundings of Oologah Lake, making it perfect for a truly relaxing escape from the urban sprawl. For those who prioritize tranquility over extensive amenities, Redbud Bay is a true gem.

Furthermore, the accessibility of water and electric hook-ups at every site provides a fundamental level of comfort for both RVers and tent campers, even within this rustic setting. While the lack of an on-site dump station or showers might seem like a drawback, the close proximity to Hawthorn Bluff Campground (less than a mile away, with no additional fee for use) expertly mitigates this. This unique arrangement means you can enjoy the seclusion of Redbud Bay while still having easy access to modern conveniences like flush toilets, hot showers, and a dump station whenever needed. This "best of both worlds" scenario is particularly appealing to local campers who know the area and value practical solutions.

Lastly, for fishing enthusiasts and those who love exploring unique natural landscapes, the rocky shoreline and the excellent fishing opportunities of Oologah Lake right at your doorstep are undeniable draws. It’s a place where you can truly focus on the activity at hand, whether it’s reeling in a catch or simply enjoying the beautiful lake views. Redbud Bay Campground, with its no-frills charm, friendly attendant, and strategic location that balances solitude with accessibility, is a perfectly tailored experience for Oklahomans seeking an authentic, peaceful, and productive outdoor adventure. It’s a testament to the diverse and beautiful camping experiences available right here in our home state.

Redbud Bay Campground

OK-88, Claremore, OK 74017, USA