What are the hours and season for Cookson Bend?

Cookson Bend is open Year-round. Check-in: 2:00 PM. Check-out: 12:00 PM.

How do I book a campsite at Cookson Bend?

Cookson Bend is a federal campground — book at Recreation.gov (search "Cookson Bend"). Sites are released 6 months in advance and sell out quickly. Set a free CamperWatch cancellation alert at camperwatch.org/campground/cookson-bend to be notified the moment a site opens up.

Cookson Bend

Tenkiller Ferry Lake — lakeside

GORE, OK4.2 (102)

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Cookson Bend Campground is a popular area that lies on Tenkiller Ferry Lake, among the Cookson Hills of the Ozark Mountains. Visitors here delight in breathtaking views of 200-foot limestone bluffs rising from the scenic waters.Visit the Tenkiller State Park for its nature center and scuba diving park, the Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge near Vian, or the historic city of Tahlequah - the capitol of the Cherokee Nation. The scenic upper Illinois River near Tahlequah is great for canoeing and rafting, and the lower Illinois near Gore offers prime trout fishing.Boating, fishing, water skiing, hiking and swimming are among the activities enjoyed by visitors.

Things to do nearby

Tenkiller Ferry LakeVisit the Tenkiller State ParkThe scenic upper Illinois River

Best For

BoatersFamilies

Site Types

TentRV

Amenities

Fire Rings

Picnic Tables

Restrooms

Drinking Water

Showers

Dump Station

Electric Hookups

Boat Launch

Check-in

2:00 PM

Check-out

12:00 PM

Season

Year-round

Max/site

6 people

Known Issues

Federal campground — book early. No hookups at most sites. Seasonal operations.

Cancellation Policy

Recreation.gov: full refund if cancelled 7+ days before arrival. $10 cancellation fee applies.

Frequently asked questions

How much does Cookson Bend cost per night?+

Cookson Bend costs $16–$50 per night depending on site type and season. Hookup options: Electric hookups on select sites. No water/sewer.

What season is Cookson Bend open?+

Cookson Bend is open Year-round. Check-in is 2:00 PM, check-out is 12:00 PM.

Does Cookson Bend have hookups?+

Electric hookups on select sites. No water/sewer.

What is the maximum RV length at Cookson Bend?+

Cookson Bend can accommodate RVs up to 160 feet long.

How do I make reservations at Cookson Bend?+

Cookson Bend is a federal campground — reservations open 6 months in advance at Recreation.gov. Sites sell out quickly. Set a free CamperWatch cancellation alert to be notified the moment a site opens.

How far is Cookson Bend from the nearest town?+

Cookson Bend is located in GORE, OK. Check the map above for distance to nearby services.

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