Family Camping Activities for All Ages: Games, Hiking, and Campfire Fun
Explore family camping activities that bring all ages together, from outdoor games and scenic hikes to memorable campfire fun that creates lasting memories.
🏞 **Introduction / Overview**
For Oklahoma residents seeking the quintessential state park experience with exceptional lake access and diverse amenities, **Elephant Rock Campground** at **Lake Murray State Park** is a top-tier destination. Nestled within Oklahoma’s oldest and largest state park near Ardmore, this campground is a favorite among RVers and tent campers alike, offering a balanced blend of convenience and natural beauty. The campground derives its name from the distinctive, large rock formation that sits just offshore in the lake, providing a unique landmark and photo opportunity.
Elephant Rock is known for its **well-maintained facilities** and its division of sites, catering to different camping preferences. It features both premium pull-through spots with full hookups for larger RVs and more rustic, highly-coveted lake-side sites ideal for smaller rigs or tents that prioritize spectacular views. Being part of the Lake Murray State Park system means campers have access to the park's extensive array of activities—from golf and hiking to boating and fishing—all within a short drive. The area's security is enhanced by a nominal entry fee and the presence of on-site camphosts and park rangers, ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for Oklahoma families.
---
📍 **Location and Accessibility**
Elephant Rock Campground is located on the picturesque **west side of Lake Murray**, a short distance from the park's main office and the town of Ardmore, Oklahoma. The park’s general address is **Ardmore, OK 73401, USA**. The area is easily accessible, situated approximately three miles east of Interstate 35 (I-35) via Exits 24 or 29, making it a simple journey for travelers coming from Oklahoma City, Tulsa, or North Texas.
Crucially, Elephant Rock is one of three main campgrounds—along with Cedar Cove and Tipp's Point—that share a common, often **gated entry area**, which adds a layer of security and controlled access. This location is particularly valued because it is directly on the **shoreline of Lake Murray**, providing campers with immediate water access. The campground also features a **boat ramp**, allowing easy launching of watercraft, and connects directly to the park's extensive trail system, notably the Buckhorn Trail. Its proximity to the Lake Murray Lodge area also means quick access to additional amenities like mini-golf, the swimming pool, and the marina.
---
🛃 **Services Offered**
Elephant Rock Campground offers a comprehensive range of services typical of a premium Oklahoma State Park camping area, designed to maximize comfort and utility for both short and long stays:
---
🏆 **Features / Highlights**
Elephant Rock Campground's highlights are primarily focused on its scenic lake setting and its utility for various recreational activities:
---
📩 **Contact Information**
For reservations, current rates (including daily parking fees now required in the park), and specific questions about Elephant Rock Campground (sites are typically reserved online via the TravelOK website), please use the following contact details:
Address: **Ardmore, OK 73401, USA** (Located within Lake Murray State Park)
Phone: **(580) 223-4044** (Lake Murray State Park Office)
Mobile Phone: **+1 580-223-4044** (Lake Murray State Park Office)
Oklahoma residents are strongly encouraged to make reservations far in advance, particularly for waterfront sites and weekends during the peak season, as this is one of the most popular areas on Lake Murray.
---
🧾 **What is Worth Choosing**
For Oklahoma campers, choosing **Elephant Rock Campground** is a decision to prioritize **versatility, views, and vibrant recreation** within a secure state park setting. What makes it worth choosing over other Lake Murray options is its unique blend of features.
You get the **convenience of full hookup, big-rig friendly pull-through sites** for hassle-free camping, coupled with the option of **incredibly scenic electric/water-only lake-side spots** for a more intimate experience. The fact that the campground offers a **dedicated swim beach** and a **boat ramp** within the same gated area simplifies a full day of lake activity.
Beyond the individual sites, Elephant Rock serves as a gateway to the best of Lake Murray, providing direct access to the vast trail system for hiking and biking and quick proximity to the lodge's additional amenities. While popularity means advanced booking is essential and the camp can be busy in peak season, the combination of **clean, modern facilities, high security (gated entry, camphost), and unparalleled lakefront positioning** makes Elephant Rock Campground a premier and reliable choice for a memorable Oklahoma outdoor adventure.
Onsite services
Picnics
Wheelchair accessible entrance
Wheelchair accessible parking lot
RV camping
RV electric hookup
RV water hookup
Hiking
Barbecue grill
Picnic tables
Public restroom
Public shower
Restroom
Running water
Slides
Swings
Tent sites
Camping fee
Credit cards
Debit cards
Good for kids
Kid-friendly hikes
Playground
On-site parking
Dogs allowed
Great spot! Excellent set up for bigger RVs with several full hook up sites with pull through. Very cool lake side spots for smaller RVs or tents. Cool trails connect to other camp areas right on the lake. Good restroom and shower facilities. Lots of wildlife and looks like a good fishing spot. Very few people were here while we visited however it was very cold and definitely off season. On-site camphost and lots of drive bus by rangers making us feel safe in this remote spot.
Quiet. The lake side parking spots don't have sewer, but the views are awesome. The pull-thru sites have full hookups, but also have trees that prevent satellite reception. Additionally, they allow tent campers on the pull-thru sites, which I'd prefer only allowing campers that need sewer and 50amp. Remember to make reservations well in advance.
Gorgeous! We stayed in spot 66 which wasn't on the water but was super close. Very secluded and shady. The water was cool and the fishing was fun. I can't wait to go back. I definitely recommend booking a waterfront if you can get it though!
This was our first trip to lake Murray And we stayed on the elephant rock side it was awesome we will be taking the entire family back there
Very peaceful and nice. Be sure and check to make sure your RV site has sewer. We had to switch. The ones by the water do NOT have sewer hookups.