How much does camping cost at Short Mountain Cove?

Camping fees at Short Mountain Cove are $23 - $50/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Short Mountain Cove first-come first-served or reservation?

Short Mountain Cove accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Short Mountain Cove before I book?

Yes! Short Mountain Cove has 5 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Short Mountain Cove?

Short Mountain Cove is open March 01 to October 31. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Short Mountain Cove?

Yes, Short Mountain Cove has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

How many campsites does Short Mountain Cove have?

Short Mountain Cove has 42 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Short Mountain Cove?

Yes, pets are allowed at Short Mountain Cove. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Short Mountain Cove?

Short Mountain Cove offers: Showers, Potable Water, Dump Station, Electrical Hookups, Water Hookups, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

Short Mountain Cove

Q: Can I have a campfire at Short Mountain Cove?

Fire policies at Short Mountain Cove: Gates open at 6AM and close at 10PM Check out Time 3PM, Check in Time 6PM Quiet Hours: 10PM to 6AM Camping is permitted in designated campsites only. Each campsite is limited to 1 wheeled camping unit with up to 3 tents. Camping is limited to 14 consecutive days within any 30 day period. This applies to all members of the camping party and the camping unit. Campers must occupy the campsite at least once during each 24 hour period. Abandoned personal property may be subject to impoundment after 2. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.28

107 reviews

102 E BK 200 RD, Stigler, OK 74462

Top 14% in OKSpring

C-Report Card

FishingSummer Destination

Featured in:Best Campgrounds Oklahoma Tent Camping Oklahoma

Quick Facts

449 ft

Price

$23 - $50/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

42 campsites

Season

Open from March 1 to...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Partial HookupsShowers

Book on U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

449 ft

Price

$23 - $50/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

42 campsites

Season

Open from March 1 to...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Partial HookupsShowers

Book on U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Official Website

Get Directions

Short Mountain Cove

$23.00 - $50.00 / night

Campsite Fees

30 Amp Electric and Water: $23.00; 50 Amp Electric : $25.00; Group Picnic Shelter Electric: $50.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee...

Group Site Fee$50.00

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Campground Map

102 E BK 200 RD, Stigler, OK 74462

Short Mountain Cove

102 E BK 200 RD, Stigler, OK 74462

Nearby places

Sallisaw, OK (8 miles)

Weather at Short Mountain Cove

Current alerts(2)

Don't Move Firewood: Protect your forests from tree-killing pests by buying your firewood locally and burning it on-site. Visit Dontmovefirewood.org for further information.
Once you have reserved and are occupying your campsite, if a Gate Attendant is on duty (Friday - Wednesday 4PM - 10PM), please take the time to check-in with them, otherwise a volunteer will check you in during their daily patrol of the campground. Thank you.

Best Time to Camp at Short Mountain Cove

Best season: spring. Spring offers the best balance of mild weather, active wildlife, and colorful wildflower displays — expect daytime highs around 60–75°F and cool nights in the 40s–50s. Trails are at their most pleasant for hiking and wildlife viewing, and water levels in Robert S. Kerr Reservoir are typically good for fishing, paddling, and swimming. Crowds are generally light to moderate (peak holiday weekends aside) and conditions are ideal for launching boats before the hotter, storm-prone summer months. Peak months: April, May, October, September Avoid: November, December, January, February

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.5 / 5

Top 14% in OK

Spring described as best season: mild temps, wildflowers and active wildlife in overview and reviews.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: March 01 to October 31. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open from March 1 to October 31. Reservations available from June 20 onward during the reservable season.

About Short Mountain Cove

Short Mountain Cove sits on the Arkansas River's Robert S. Kerr Pool near Sallisaw, operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. This mid-sized campground offers electric and water hookups for tent and RV campers, plus group sites, with spacious spots that draw anglers and wildlife watchers. Spring brings mild weather, wildflower displays, and active wildlife including deer and eagles along the reservoir shoreline.

Short Mountain Cove accommodates a variety of campers with 42 campsites, including standard electric and group shelter electric options.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: spring. Spring offers the best balance of mild weather, active wildlife, and colorful wildflower displays — expect daytime highs around 60–75°F and cool nights in the 40s–50s. Trails are at their most pleasant for hiking and wildlife viewing, and water levels in Robert S. Kerr Reservoir are typically good for fishing, paddling, and swimming. Crowds are generally light to moderate (peak holiday weekends aside) and conditions are ideal for launching boats before the hotter, storm-prone summer months. Peak months: April, May, October, September Avoid: November, December, January, February

Elevation449 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground occupies a forested point on Robert S. Kerr Reservoir, where the Arkansas River forms miles of irregular shoreline with coves and backwaters. Mature oaks shade most sites, and the surrounding Cookson Hills roll away to the east in ridges and valleys carved by ancient geology. The reservoir attracts bass, crappie, and catfish, and reviewers regularly spot deer, geese, and bald eagles near the water. Some sites sit 30 feet from the shore. The elevation is 449 feet.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

14 consecutive nights within any 30-day period.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Each campsite is limited to one wheeled camping unit with up to three tents.

Groups

The group shelter electric site is available at a rate of $50 per night.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.

AccessibilityLimited information is available on accessibility features. A user review requested handrails in the bathroom stalls for better accessibility.

Site SizeSites vary, with some being spacious and others narrow. For example, one user describes site #17 as narrow with only 18 inches of pad outside the door and a steep slope.

PrivacyPrivacy levels differ across sites. Some sites, like #17, are noted for being 'about 30 feet away from the water' with no other sites close to the front door, while other reviews suggest campers are close enough to affect the experience negatively.

Total Campsites42 campsites

Recommended SitesSite #17 offers proximity to water and privacy but has a sloped pad. Site #40 is noted for its quiet setting and spaced layout.

Best CampsitesSite #17 sits about 30 feet from the water with no other sites close to the front, though it's narrow with only 18 inches of pad outside the door and a steep slope. Site #13 also gets mentioned for scenic views and water proximity. Some sites are spacious and shaded, while others are narrow and closer to neighbors.

Need help booking Short Mountain Cove?

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Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

Short Mountain Cove is equipped with 42 campsites and offers a range of amenities. These include 2 playgrounds, a basketball goal, a boat ramp, and a courtesy dock. Sites provide access to picnic tables, fire pits, and electric hookups, though some reviews point out that maintenance can be an issue. The dump station is available for RV users, although one review notes that the driveway is narrow and may pose challenges. Bathrooms and showers were criticized in user reviews for being unclean, with reports of spider webs, dirt, and a lack of supplies such as toilet paper and soap. Water hookups are available, but not all sites have their own spigot and some share water access with adjacent sites. Cell service varies depending on provider, with AT&T reported as having poor reception.

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Water hookups

Dump station

Fire rings

I manage this campground

RV details

Things to do at Short Mountain Cove

Short Mountain Cove offers a variety of recreational activities. Fishing is a highlight, with the reservoir known for record-size crappie, sand bass, catfish, and black bass. Boating and kayaking are facilitated by the boat ramp and courtesy dock, though some reviews note the dock needs repairs. Hiking trails wind through the hills and along the shoreline, offering additional opportunities for outdoor activity.

Water Sports4.0/5

Coves/backwaters and boat access make calm paddling and kayak access easy and enjoyable.

Signature experiences

Stargazing3.5/5Rural, quiet site suggests low light and decent stargazing though darkness not quantified.

Photography4.0/5Sunsets, wildlife (eagles) and interesting shoreline coves are frequently mentioned as photo-worthy.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Fire PolicyGates open at 6AM and close at 10PM Check out Time 3PM, Check in Time 6PM Quiet Hours: 10PM to 6AM Camping is permitted in designated campsites only. Each campsite is limited to 1 wheeled camping unit with up to 3 tents. Camping is limited to 14 consecutive days within any 30 day period. This applies to all members of the camping party and the camping unit. Campers must occupy the campsite at least once during each 24 hour period. Abandoned personal property may be subject to impoundment after 2

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10PM to 6AM

Trash & RecyclingTrash dumpsters are available, but some users have noted inconvenience, such as having to drive half a mile to access a dumpster from site #13.

Cell CoverageCell phone service quality is inconsistent. While one user with AT&T experienced poor reception, another mentioned spotty service until using a WeBoost.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.3

107 reviews

Satisfactory

Short Mountain Cove is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews for Short Mountain Cove are mixed, with some highlighting the peaceful atmosphere, friendly staff, and excellent fishing opportunities, while others criticize maintenance issues, including unclean facilities and overgrown grass.

Review Summaries

Based on 107 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 107 reviews.

Site #40Loved
Site #40: Spacious, but with a slope off the pad, making it tricky to navigate.
Site #13Mentioned
Site #13: Noted for the inconvenience of trash disposal.
Site #17Mentioned
Site #17: Narrow pad with a downhill slope, but close to the water and offers privacy.

What Campers Love

Positive aspects include friendly and helpful camp hosts, spacious and quiet campsites, and excellent fishing opportunities. Users also appreciated the presence of wildlife like deer, geese, and...

Based on 107 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include unclean bathrooms and showers, lack of supplies such as toilet paper, overgrown grass, and maintenance issues with the dock at the boat ramp. Some users also noted issues...

Based on 107 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring extra supplies like toilet paper and soap due to reports of lacking bathroom amenities. Consider visiting during quieter periods for a more peaceful experience. If reserving a site, inspect it...

Based on 107 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Reviews suggest the campground is quieter and more peaceful during the off-peak season but may be full and bustling during spring break and summer.

Based on 107 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'We love this place. Quick getaway for us.' 2. 'Short Mountain Cove is nice and shaded in the summer months and is a great place to bring your family.' 3. 'Bathrooms were extremely dirty never was...

Based on 107 reviews

Accessibility Features

A user expressed the need for handrails in bathroom stalls for better accessibility.

Based on 107 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed but must be leashed or penned at all times. One user mentioned enjoying the road alongside the forest for walking their dogs.

Based on 107 reviews

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Short Mountain Cove

$23.00 - $50.00 / night

Campsite Fees

30 Amp Electric and Water: $23.00; 50 Amp Electric : $25.00; Group Picnic Shelter Electric: $50.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee...

Group Site Fee$50.00

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

263,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

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Share this campground

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Provider

N/A

Go if

You want a quiet lakeside spot for fishing and wildlife watching with helpful hosts and full hookups.

Skip if

You need 24-hour gate access or pristine restroom facilities.

Nearby Campgrounds

21616 E CR 1175, Keota, OK 74941

Cowlington Point sits on the Arkansas River's Robert S. Kerr Pool near Sallisaw, Oklahoma, offering mid-sized tent and RV camping with electric and water hookups. The campground operates seasonally during peak months and features a boat ramp, making it a hub for fishing, boating, and swimming when lake levels are high. Group sites are available, and a camp host is on-site to maintain the grounds.

Short Mountain Cove

Quick Facts

Quick Facts

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Weather at Short Mountain Cove

Current alerts(2)

Best Time to Camp at Short Mountain Cove

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About Short Mountain Cove

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Amenities available

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Current alerts(2)

Best Time to Camp at Short Mountain Cove

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Amenities available

Things to do at Short Mountain Cove

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns