Camping at Bear Creek Cove Campground

Overview

Bear Creek Cove Campground is located within Kaw Lake State Park situated in northern Oklahoma near the towns of Ponca City, Kildare, Newkirk, and Braman. Kaw Lake stretches across Kay and Osage counties and offers approximately 17,000 acres of recreational surface and 168 miles of shoreline.

Camping Facilities and Amenities

At Bear Creek Cove Campground, campers can expect basic amenities such as:

• Campsites: Offers RV and tent camping sites, some of which may provide electrical and water hookups.
• Restrooms: Typically equipped with flushing toilets.
• Picnic Areas: Most likely includes picnic tables and grills.
• Boat Ramp: Access to Kaw Lake for boating activities.
• Playground: May include facilities for children.
• Group Shelter: Possibly available for larger gatherings or events.
• Trails: Hiking trails might be accessible from or near the campground.
• Dump Station: A station for RVs to dispose of waste is often available.

Activities

Recreational opportunities provided by Kaw Lake and its surrounding areas might include:

• Boating: The lake is suitable for various boating activities.
• Fishing: Anglers can fish for species like catfish, crappie, largemouth bass, and white bass.
• Swimming: There could be designated swimming areas in the lake.
• Hiking: Nearby trails offer opportunities for wildlife viewing and enjoying the natural scenery.
• Water Sports: Water skiing, jet skiing, and other water sports could be popular on Kaw Lake.
• Hunting: During designated seasons, hunting is allowed in certain areas around Kaw Lake.

Wildlife Concerns

• Bears and Wildlife: While the name "Bear Creek Cove" suggests the presence of bears, it’s important to check with park officials regarding the presence of bears and required safety precautions.

Reservations and Costs

• Reservations: Campers are often encouraged to reserve their campsites in advance, which can typically be done online or by phone.
• Fees: There might be fees for camping, boat launching, and other amenities which vary based on the type of site and facilities used.
• Permits: Certain activities may require permits, like fishing or hunting, which should be acquired as per state regulations.

Park Regulations

Rules and regulations to consider when visiting Bear Creek Cove Campground could include:

• Quiet Hours: These are usually enforced to ensure a peaceful environment for all campers.
• Pet Policies: Pets are often allowed but must be kept on leashes and supervised.
• Campfire Guidelines: Depending on conditions, campfires may be restricted; always follow the campground's fire regulations.
• Alcohol Use: Alcohol consumption might be limited or prohibited in certain areas; always confirm park policies.
• Waste Disposal: Campers must dispose of waste properly to maintain the campground's cleanliness and prevent attracting wildlife.

Access and Contact Information

To access Bear Creek Cove Campground, detailed directions can usually be found on the official park website or by contacting the park directly:

• Address: Provide the specific address or GPS coordinates for the campground.
• Phone Number: Use to inquire about current conditions, make reservations, or ask specific questions about the campground.
• Email/Contact Form: A method to contact park staff for non-urgent inquiries or information.

Additional Notes

• Weather: Oklahoma can experience extreme weather, including tornadoes, so campers should check the forecast and be prepared for possible severe weather conditions.
• Seasonal Availability: Some campgrounds are seasonal and may not be open year-round. Always check ahead of time for seasonal closures.