Elm Point Lake Recreation, tent & RV camping, & fishing

🏞 **Introduction / Overview**

For Oklahoma locals seeking a quieter, more secluded slice of the great outdoors, **Elm Point Lake Recreation** offers a cherished alternative to the larger, more bustling state park destinations. Known by those in the know as a "nice little local campground" and even a "hidden Oklahoma Jem," Elm Point provides a simple, direct link to the massive recreational opportunities of **Lake Eufaula**, Oklahoma's largest lake. Located on the south end of the lake, about 10 miles from McAlester, this site is managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), emphasizing essential lake-based recreation: **tent and RV camping, fishing, and boating**.

Elm Point is distinguished by its **natural, shady setting** and its manageable size, typically featuring a limited number of sites that enhance its private, tranquil atmosphere. This spot is highly valued by anglers, as the entirety of Eufaula Lake is renowned for its outstanding fishery, including crappie, sand bass, catfish, and black bass. The focus here is on authentic outdoor enjoyment—waking up to the lake air, spending the day on the water, and relaxing under a canopy of trees. For Oklahomans weary of crowded tourist spots, Elm Point offers a peaceful, secure retreat where the focus is firmly on nature and water recreation.

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📍 **Location and Accessibility**

Elm Point Lake Recreation is conveniently situated at the southern tip of Lake Eufaula, approximately 10 miles from the city of McAlester, Oklahoma. The primary address associated with the area is **McAlester, OK 74501, USA**. More specific directions often reference **171 Elm Point, McAlester, OK 74501** (or 8433 East Hwy 31), highlighting its position within Pittsburg County and its dedicated access road off the state highways.

The camp's proximity to McAlester—a community known for its historical downtown and local amenities—ensures that campers are never far from necessary supplies or dining options. Its placement on the **south end of Eufaula Lake** is ideal for accessing some of the lesser-trafficked coves and fishing grounds. Accessibility is practical for both RVs and vehicles towing boats, with a dedicated **boat launching ramp** available for day-use visitors and registered campers. While the location is somewhat secluded, the reviews consistently highlight the presence of **security and regular ranger drive-bys**, making this "remote spot" feel safe and well-monitored, which is a key consideration for Oklahoma families.

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🛃 **Services Offered**

As a USACE facility, Elm Point focuses on providing core services essential for comfortable and functional camping, prioritizing access to the lake and a clean environment. Note that due to its smaller, rustic nature, some amenities found in larger state parks may not be available:

• Camping Hookups: The campground offers several **Standard Electric sites** (typically 30-amp service), catering to RVs and trailers. A limited number of **non-electric, tent-only sites** are also available.
• Boat Launching: A **dedicated, on-site boat launching ramp** is a primary service for all visitors, simplifying lake access.
• Toilet Facilities: **Vault-type toilets** (vault toilet facilities) are provided. It is important to note that public records indicate **no shower facilities** are available on site.
• Potable Water: While some sources list water hookups on certain sites, official USACE records sometimes indicate **no potable water** is available at the vaults, meaning campers should confirm drinking water availability or plan to bring their own.
• Day Use Pass: A **valid day use pass** is required for all visitors utilizing the boat ramp or picnic areas who are not registered campers.
• Picnic Facilities: A **group picnic shelter** and individual **picnic tables** are available for day use and campsite utilization.
• Reservation System: Reservations for the electric sites are generally handled through the **Recreation.gov** system, ensuring a secure spot.

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🏆 **Features / Highlights**

The highlights of Elm Point Lake Recreation are centered on its intimate atmosphere, natural beauty, and direct recreational utility, making it a favorite for simple, traditional Oklahoma camping:

• Excellent Shade: The campground is noted for having **"plenty of shade,"** a valuable feature during the warm Oklahoma summer months, provided by the surrounding mature trees.
• Outstanding Fishing: The area is considered a **"great for fishing"** spot, capitalizing on Lake Eufaula's renown for crappie, catfish, and bass. Its location is ideal for anglers.
• Immediate Boat Access: The **on-site boat ramp** allows for quick and easy launching onto the vast waters of Lake Eufaula.
• Tranquility and Seclusion: Reviewers describe the camp as **"quiet" and "private,"** offering an atmosphere of solitude away from the large crowds found elsewhere.
• Seasonal Beauty: The surrounding shoreline of Lake Eufaula is particularly beautiful during the fall, treating visitors to **vivid autumn colors**.
• Security Presence: Despite its remote feel, the presence of an **on-site camphost** and **park security/rangers** contributes to a feeling of safety and confidence.
• Diverse Lake Shoreline: The Eufaula Lake area, accessible from Elm Point, features a variety of scenery, from **sandy beaches to rocky bluffs**.

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📩 **Contact Information**

For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding reservations, current water levels, and specific site details at Elm Point Lake Recreation, inquiries should be directed to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers office managing the Eufaula Lake area:

Address: **McAlester, OK 74501, USA** (General Location)

Specific Location Address: **171 Elm Point McAlester, OK 74501**

USACE Facility Phone: **(918) 799-5843** (Recommended number for facility-specific information)

Reservation Platform: Sites are generally reserved via the official **Recreation.gov** website.

It is strongly advised for Oklahoma campers to confirm the availability of potable water and specific hookup details prior to arrival, particularly if relying on the camp for drinking water.

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🧾 **What is Worth Choosing**

For an Oklahoma resident, **Elm Point Lake Recreation** is worth choosing if you value a **simple, quiet, and primarily fishing-focused camping experience** on Lake Eufaula. This facility is a genuine "hidden Jem" that prioritizes the core elements of a great outdoor trip: access to the water and a peaceful place to stay. You choose Elm Point for the **tranquility and the shade**—two commodities often lost at larger, busier campgrounds.

The **dedicated boat launch** and the camp's reputation as a **fishing hotspot** make it an automatic favorite for anglers with small boats or kayaks. The presence of **electric hookups** provides essential utility for RVers, while the ample shade and tent sites appeal to traditional campers. While it lacks showers and may require bringing your own drinking water, the trade-off is a **secluded, natural environment** with a layer of **security** provided by the camphost and rangers.

Ultimately, by selecting Elm Point Lake Recreation, you are choosing to step away from the commercial noise and step into a natural Oklahoma haven where the focus is solely on a clean, private campsite and a day spent successfully **fishing or boating on the magnificent Lake Eufaula**.