How much does camping cost at Winding Stair Campground?

Camping fees at Winding Stair Campground are $3 - $14/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Fees are typically paid at the campground entrance.

Can I see photos of campsites at Winding Stair Campground before I book?

Yes! Winding Stair Campground has 2 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 Winding Stair Campground?

Winding Stair Campground is open Peak season generally coincides with open season, April 1 to November 15.. 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 Winding Stair Campground?

Winding Stair Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at Winding Stair Campground?

Fire policies at Winding Stair Campground: Campfires are permitted. Fire rings are provided at each campsite.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

Is there cell service at Winding Stair Campground?

Cell phone service at Winding Stair Campground is generally available. Cell service is available. Coverage may vary by carrier and exact location within the campground.

How many campsites does Winding Stair Campground have?

Winding Stair Campground has 23 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Arrive early for the best site selection.

Are dogs allowed at Winding Stair Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Winding Stair Campground. 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 Winding Stair Campground?

Winding Stair Campground offers: Restrooms, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

Winding Stair Campground

Q: Is Winding Stair Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Winding Stair Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. All sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Rarely are there many people there, according to user reviews.

4.21

173 reviews

null

Top 3% in OKFall

CReport Card

Quick Facts

1,900 ft

Price

$3 - $14/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

23 campsites

Season

Open seasonally from...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

1,900 ft

Price

$3 - $14/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

23 campsites

Season

Open seasonally from...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Winding Stair Campground

$3.00 - $14.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Rates are $8 per night for single sites, $14 per night for double sites, and $3 per night for backpacker's camp. Fees are reduced when potable water...

Standard Site Fee$8.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$3.00

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

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

USFS

Provider

(580) 494-6402null

I manage this campground

Ask Camp Sage about Winding Stair Campground

Availability, what to pack, similar spots — ask anything and get an instant answer.

Campground Map

null

Winding Stair Campground

null

Nearby places

Hodgen: 2 miles.

Nearby supplies

The nearest supplies can be found in nearby towns, such as Smithville, OK, which is a drive away. Bring all necessary supplies including water, as none is available on-site.

Driving directionsFrom Hodgen, OK, take US Rt. 270 south 10.5 miles to US Rt. 259. Turn right onto Rt. 259 and go 4.3 miles to Talimena Drive sign (State Rt. 1). Turn right onto Talimena Dr. and proceed to stop sign. Turn right onto State Rt. 1 (Talimena Drive) and go 2 miles to Winding Stair campground sign. Turn right at sign and proceed into campground.

The campground is accessible via paved roads; however, low overhanging branches may be encountered on the interior road.

Weather at Winding Stair Campground

Current alert: Seasonal water unavailability and overflowing trash receptacles have been reported.

Best Time to Camp at Winding Stair Campground

Fall is the clear winner here. October brings daytime temps in the 50s to 70s, nights in the 30s and 40s, peak foliage, and dry trail conditions. Insects drop off, crowds thin on weekdays, and the ridge views stretch for miles. Watch for hunting season in November and occasional strong gusts that can hit 50-60 mph along the ridgeline. Spring and summer work, but expect higher humidity and bugs. Winter camping is possible but cold.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

5.0 / 5

Top 3% in OK

Fall is 'clear winner' with peak foliage, mild temps, dry trails and strong review praise.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Peak season generally coincides with open season, April 1 to November 15.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open seasonally from April 1 to November 15.

About Winding Stair Campground

Winding Stair Campground sits at 1,900 feet in the Ouachita National Forest, offering 23 primitive and tent sites along a ridge-top loop. Sites run $3-14 per night and include paved spurs, fire rings, and picnic tables. There's no potable water, so bring your own. Cell service works (Verizon 4G, AT&T 4G LTE), but vault toilets sometimes run dirty and trash cans overflow during busy periods.

Winding Stair Campground caters to primitive and tent camping enthusiasts. The facilities are designed for a rugged camping experience, with no RV accommodations beyond small pull-through areas for vehicles.

Weather and SeasonsFall is the clear winner here. October brings daytime temps in the 50s to 70s, nights in the 30s and 40s, peak foliage, and dry trail conditions. Insects drop off, crowds thin on weekdays, and the ridge views stretch for miles. Watch for hunting season in November and occasional strong gusts that can hit 50-60 mph along the ridgeline. Spring and summer work, but expect higher humidity and bugs. Winter camping is possible but cold.

ElevationPerched at 1,900 feet above sea level, Winding Stair Campground offers a refreshing mountain retreat where temperatures drop several degrees below the valleys below. This elevated position not only provides natural air conditioning during summer months but also creates the perfect vantage point for watching morning mists roll through the valleys and evening sunsets paint the ridgelines in brilliant hues.

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground crowns the Winding Stair Mountains, part of the ancient Ouachita range shaped by millions of years of uplift and erosion. Mixed hardwoods and pines provide canopy cover across well-spaced sites, with ridge-top clearings offering long views over the surrounding forest. Emerald Vista, accessible from camp, delivers some of the best panoramas. The elevation keeps things a few degrees cooler than the valleys below. You'll hear wind in the pines and plenty of birdsong.

Geological RegionThe campground crowns the ancient Winding Stair Mountains, a dramatic geological formation within the greater Ouachita range. These time-worn peaks, shaped by millions of years of geological forces, create a ridge-top sanctuary where campers can literally touch the clouds and experience the raw beauty of one of America's oldest mountain chains.

Scenic ViewsEmerald Vista, located nearby, provides a panoramic view of the Ouachita Mountain Range.

Lodging & AccommodationsThere are no hotel-style lodging accommodations available. Camping is limited to tent and primitive sites.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are mentioned.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check in: 2:00 PM.

Check-out

Check out: 12:00 PM.

Stay Limit

Maximum stay of 14 consecutive days.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum number of guests per site is not specified.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutA single loop winds through mixed hardwood and pine. Sites are well-spaced with decent privacy thanks to tree coverage. Each includes a paved spur and room for tents, with a mix of standard and double sites available.

Reservation PlatformsReservations are not available.

Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Rarely are there many people there, according to user reviews.

Cancellation PolicyCancellations are not applicable as reservations are not available.

AccessibilitySome sites feature concrete around picnic tables and accessible fire pits, and the vault toilets are wheelchair-friendly. However, trail accessibility information is not specified.

Site SizeThe campground features a mix of standard and double campsites. Each site includes a paved spur and space for tents.

PrivacyThe campground offers a reasonable level of privacy due to tree coverage, and the sites are well-spaced to ensure seclusion.

Total Campsites23 campsites

Recommended SitesEmerald Vista offers great views and is a recommended spot to visit. Sites near the Mountain Top Trail are convenient for hiking.

Best CampsitesReviewers recommend sites near Emerald Vista for the views. No specific site numbers are mentioned, but look for spots on the outer edge of the loop where tree spacing and elevation give you better sightlines.

Amenities available

Potable water is not available at this site.

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

Things to do at Winding Stair Campground

The campground is ideal for hiking enthusiasts, offering direct access to both the Ouachita National Recreation Trail and the Mountain Top Trail. The area provides opportunities for day hikes, backpacking, and wildlife viewing. The proximity to Emerald Vista also allows visitors to enjoy scenic photography.

Hiking4.0/5

Direct access to the 192-mile Ouachita Nat'l Rec Trail and Mountain Top Trail; multiple trail options.

Wildlife viewing4.0/5

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Signature experiences

Photography4.0/5Panoramic vistas, fall foliage, and ridge clearings provide photo opportunities.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include falling trees during high winds, bear activity, and seasonal infestations of walking stick bugs.

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available at this campground. Visitors must use vault toilets.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

No Dump StationThere is no dump station at this campground. Plan to use a dump station along your route or at a nearby facility before or after your stay.

Fire PolicyCampfires are permitted. Fire rings are provided at each campsite.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.

Emergency ServicesOklahoma Ranger District (South), Address: 111 SH-259A Broken Bow, OK 74728, Phone: (580) 494-6402.

Trash & RecyclingBear-proof trash receptacles are available, but reviewers frequently noted that these were overflowing during their stays, leading to concerns about maintenance and wildlife safety.

Water FeaturesNo water features nearby; the campground does not offer swimming or boating facilities.

Camp HostThere is no official mention of campground hosts.

Cell CoverageCell phone reception is available, with Verizon providing 4G signal and AT&T offering 4G LTE. Coverage may vary by location within the campground.

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

Rate Winding Stair Campground

Been here? Tap a star to start. Takes about a minute.

Sign-in required only if you want your name on it.

From Booking Sources

4.2

173 reviews

Satisfactory

Winding Stair Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews highlight the peaceful setting, scenic views, and the campground's appeal to hikers. However, the lack of potable water and issues with trash maintenance are common complaints.

Review Summaries

Based on 173 reviews

What Campers Love

Many users appreciate the spacious and quiet campsites, the proximity to beautiful trails, and the stunning views from Emerald Vista. The campground's affordability and primitive charm are also...

Based on 173 reviews

Common Concerns

Major complaints include the lack of reliable potable water, overflowing trash bins, and occasional cleanliness issues with the vault toilets. Some visitors also mentioned seasonal infestations of...

Based on 173 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Campsite #7 was reported to have experienced a fallen tree during high winds. Campsite #16 provides direct access to the Mountain Top Trail.

Based on 173 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring sufficient water and lights, as the campground lacks potable water and electricity. Utilize bear-safe food storage techniques. For the best views, consider camping near Emerald Vista.

Based on 173 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring and fall are popular for camping due to mild weather and fewer bugs. Summer reviews note hot, humid conditions and increased insect activity, while winter camping is unavailable as the...

Based on 173 reviews

Camper Quotes

- 'Beautiful place to stop in and camp for a night or two. The sites are great and the hiking trail is a clear trail that can be followed through a beautiful wooded area.' - 'Quiet, peaceful, and...

Based on 173 reviews

Accessibility Features

Some sites with concrete areas and accessible fire pits are noted, but no specific reviews address broader accessibility concerns for users with mobility needs.

Based on 173 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, and the campground is pet-friendly. However, visitors should follow leash requirements and clean up after their pets.

Based on 173 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

Be the first to review this campground

Every adventure creates another. Share what you learned so the next camper feels a little more prepared heading out.

Winding Stair Campground

$3.00 - $14.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Rates are $8 per night for single sites, $14 per night for double sites, and $3 per night for backpacker's camp. Fees are reduced when potable water...

Standard Site Fee$8.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$3.00

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

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

USFS

Provider

(580) 494-6402null

Go if

Hikers chasing the 192-mile Ouachita National Recreation Trail or a quick out from site 16 onto the Mountain Top Trail loops. At $8 a night, fall weekdays here cost less than a fast-food lunch and deliver real ridge views from Emerald Vista.

Skip if

No water on-site, vault toilets get dirty on busy weekends, and trash cans overflow regularly. A few reviewers describe interactions that felt unwelcoming to people outside the local cultural mainstream, so campers who've had that experience elsewhere should weigh it here.

Nearby Campgrounds

Highly Popular

4.2

(173)

Winding Stair Campground (Ok)

Ouachita National Forest

Winding Stair Campground sits in the Ouachita foothills of eastern Oklahoma, operated by the U.S. Forest Service as a small primitive campground with vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables. Campers come for valley views, ridge-top hiking access, and proximity to Emerald Vista along the Talimena Scenic Drive. The campground offers well-spaced sites in a quiet, wooded setting with no hookups or running water.

Winding Stair Campground

Quick Facts

Quick Facts

Get Notified When Available

Ask Camp Sage about Winding Stair Campground

Campground Map

Weather at Winding Stair Campground

Best Time to Camp at Winding Stair Campground

Planning Tips

About Winding Stair Campground

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Amenities available

Things to do at Winding Stair Campground

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews

Get Notified When Available

Go if

Skip if

How campers graded it

Every grade - tap to see what campers said

Overview

Ask Camp Sage about Winding Stair Campground

Best Time to Camp at Winding Stair Campground

Planning Tips

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Amenities available

Things to do at Winding Stair Campground

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews