Platter Flats Campground

Howdy, Oklahomans! Are you seeking a serene retreat on the shores of the vast and beautiful Lake Texoma, where the natural landscape provides a perfect backdrop for your outdoor adventures? If so, let us introduce you to Platter Flats Campground, a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE) managed property located in Calera, Oklahoma. This campground offers a unique blend of lakeside beauty and practical amenities, making it a popular choice for many locals who appreciate its clean environment and picturesque setting.

Platter Flats Campground is a well-established destination, drawing campers for decades, as evidenced by loyal visitors returning for "25+ years." It's celebrated for its "beautiful spot on Lake Texoma" and its commitment to being "very clean and well kept." As a COE campground, it adheres to specific standards, offering a range of sites to accommodate various camping styles, from RVs to tents, and even catering specifically to equestrian enthusiasts. While a recent review highlighted a significant issue with feral cats and a less-than-ideal interaction with a staff member, it's important to understand the broader context of what Platter Flats offers and why it remains a cherished spot for many Oklahoma outdoor lovers. This campground consistently provides access to a multitude of recreational activities on one of the nation's most popular lakes.

Platter Flats Campground is located at Trail Ride Rd, Calera, OK 74730, USA. This places it on the eastern side of Lake Texoma, a massive reservoir that straddles the Oklahoma-Texas border. Calera, a small town in Bryan County, Oklahoma, serves as a gateway to this popular recreation area.

For Oklahomans residing in areas like Oklahoma City, Tulsa, or even closer communities like Durant, Platter Flats is a convenient and accessible escape. Directions generally involve traveling north on US 75 from Colbert, then heading west for a few miles to Platter Flats, following the signs to the campground. The physical address for GPS is often cited as 867 Trail Ride Road, Platter, OK 74753. While some older reviews suggest that "roads getting from 75 to the site can be a little rough in places so take your time," the overall accessibility is considered good, especially for a lakeside campground. Its location allows for easy access to Lake Texoma's vast waters and the surrounding natural areas, which are part of the Cross Timbers Region, characterized by blackjack oak forests and rolling hills. The campground's self-service entrance gates are open from 6 AM to 10 PM, providing flexibility for arrivals and departures.

• Campsites: Platter Flats Campground offers a diverse range of campsites. There are 26 family campsites equipped with electrical and water hookups, suitable for both RVs and tents. Additionally, it features 37 equestrian sites with hookups and 20 equestrian sites without hookups, specifically designed to accommodate campers bringing their horses. Some sources state 35 equestrian sites with hookups and 3 tent sites without hookups for equestrians. Sites can accommodate up to 50 amp electric service.

• Restroom Facilities: The campground provides flush toilets and showers in comfort stations, ensuring a more comfortable experience. Vault toilets (outhouses) are also available for convenience. Reviews generally indicate these facilities are kept "very clean and well kept."

• Drinking Water: Accessible drinking water sources are available throughout the campground to keep campers hydrated.

• Sanitary Dump Station: A conveniently located dump station is available on-site for RV campers, making waste disposal easy before leaving the park.

• Boat Ramp and Dock: For boating enthusiasts, a boat ramp and dock are located on-site, providing direct access to Lake Texoma's expansive waters. A boat launch fee may apply.

• Day-Use Group Picnic Shelter: A group picnic shelter with electricity is available, perfect for larger gatherings or family events.

• Equestrian Facilities: Beyond the dedicated equestrian sites (which often come with tie-line poles), the campground provides access to extensive horseback riding trails (over 40 miles around Lake Texoma). Concrete horse trailer pads are also available at some sites.

• Reservations: All sites at Platter Flats are reservable. Campers must book online, by phone, or by scanning a QR code provided on site posts.

• Beautiful Lakeside Views: Platter Flats offers "beautiful spot on Lake Texoma," providing picturesque scenery, especially from rocky ledges along the trails. The lake views are a major highlight for campers.

• Equestrian-Friendly: A standout feature is its extensive offerings for horse owners, including dedicated equestrian sites with hookups, tie-line poles, and access to over 40 miles of horseback riding trails. Horseback riding is a core activity here.

• Clean and Well-Maintained: Despite the anecdotal issue with cats, many reviews consistently praise the campground for being "very clean and well kept," with well-maintained restrooms and general grounds.

• Diverse Recreation Opportunities: Beyond equestrian activities, visitors can enjoy 14 miles of hiking trails (part of the Cross Timbers trail), swimming at the sandy beach, fishing (Lake Texoma is known as the "Striper Capital of the World"), hunting, and boating.

• Abundant Wildlife: The natural setting means opportunities to spot deer, turkeys, bobcats, hawks, waterfowl, and other bird species, enhancing the immersive outdoor experience.

• Shade from Oak Trees: The campground is nestled among post and blackjack oak forests, providing natural shade, particularly appreciated during warmer months.

• Spacious Sites: While not explicitly stated in the provided reviews, COE campgrounds often feature well-spaced sites, offering a sense of privacy.

For inquiries, reservations, or more specific information about Platter Flats Campground, as it is managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, you can use the following contact details:

Address: Trail Ride Rd, Calera, OK 74730, USA (Note: Some sources list 867 Trail Ride Road, Platter, OK 74753 for GPS accuracy.)

Phone Number for Campground Inquiries: (580) 434-5864

Reservations are primarily handled through the Recreation.gov website or by calling the National Recreation Reservation Service at 1-877-444-6777. It is highly recommended to make reservations in advance, especially during peak season, due to the campground's popularity.

For Oklahomans seeking a diverse outdoor experience that truly embraces the beauty and recreational opportunities of Lake Texoma, Platter Flats Campground stands as a compelling choice. While the recent review about feral cats and a challenging staff interaction is concerning and should be noted, it's important to balance this with the consistent praise for the campground's natural beauty, cleanliness, and extensive amenities that have kept loyal campers returning for decades.

Platter Flats offers a unique blend, particularly for those with equestrian interests. The dedicated horse sites and direct access to over 40 miles of riding trails are unparalleled for local equestrians. Beyond horses, the campground provides ample opportunities for classic Oklahoma outdoor activities: fishing for striped bass, boating on the vast lake, hiking the Cross Timbers trail through picturesque oak forests, and simply relaxing by the water with "beautiful views." The presence of clean restroom facilities with flush toilets and showers, along with electrical and water hookups, ensures a comfortable experience for both RV and tent campers, without sacrificing the authentic feel of a natural setting.

The fact that it's a COE campground also implies a certain level of maintenance and structure, despite isolated incidents. For Oklahomans, a trip to Platter Flats is an opportunity to immerse themselves in one of the state's premier recreational areas. It's a place where you can create new traditions, enjoy quality time with family (including pets, noting the feral cat issue), and appreciate the stunning landscapes that make our state so special. It remains a valuable local resource for those who are prepared for genuine outdoor living and appreciate the unique blend of features it offers on Lake Texoma.