Taylor Ferry South

Hello, fellow Oklahomans! Are you ready to trade the everyday hustle for the tranquil sounds of nature, the sparkle of lake waters, and the comforting crackle of a campfire? Then it’s time to discover Taylor Ferry South, a fantastic campground nestled on the shores of Fort Gibson Lake in Wagoner, Oklahoma. Operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE), this campground is a beloved spot for locals seeking a peaceful and amenity-rich outdoor experience.

Oklahoma's Green Country is renowned for its stunning lakes and abundant recreational opportunities, and Fort Gibson Lake is a jewel in its crown. Taylor Ferry South offers a prime location to experience all that this beautiful area has to offer. While it provides a serene escape, it's also important to be aware of a few practical tips to ensure your visit is seamless and enjoyable. This article will provide a comprehensive and factual overview of Taylor Ferry South, detailing its strategic location, the array of services it provides, its unique features and highlights, and why it stands out as an ideal choice for your next Oklahoma camping adventure.

Taylor Ferry South Campground is located at Taylor Ferry South Recreation Area, E 750 Rd, Wagoner, OK 74467, USA. It sits on the western shore of the sprawling Fort Gibson Lake, a significant body of water in northeastern Oklahoma known for its vast size (nearly 20,000 surface acres at normal pool) and excellent recreational offerings. Wagoner, the nearby charming town, provides convenient access to local amenities and supplies, ensuring you have everything you need for your trip.

For Oklahomans traveling from areas like Tulsa, Muskogee, or even Oklahoma City, Taylor Ferry South is relatively accessible. However, a crucial tip from seasoned campers is to exercise caution with GPS navigation. While the address leads you to the general area, Google Maps might sometimes direct you to an "abandoned road." It is highly recommended to "read the directions on the website" or follow official signage as you approach the campground from Highway 51, turning onto South 330 Road and then East 746 Road. The campground itself features paved roads throughout, making it easy to navigate once inside, even for larger RVs. Its location ensures you're immersed in nature, yet remain within a short drive of essential services and the wider Fort Gibson Lake area attractions.

• Campsites with Electric & Water Hookups: Taylor Ferry South offers a substantial number of campsites, with 89 out of 95 sites providing both electric (30 & 50 amp) and water hookups. This means comfortable stays for most RVs and trailers. Note that most water spigots are shared between adjoining campsites, so bringing a water splitter and an extra hose is a wise idea.

• Improved Tent Sites: Dedicated improved tent sites are also available, catering to traditional campers who prefer pitching a tent.

• Primitive Sites: For those who truly want to rough it and enjoy a more rustic experience, primitive camping options without hookups are also offered.

• Dump Station: A significant convenience for RVers, the campground has an on-site dump station. Additionally, there's another dump station located just outside the park boundaries on the entrance road, providing extra flexibility.

• Flush Toilets: The campground boasts modern flush toilets within its comfort stations, ensuring a more comfortable restroom experience.

• Vault Toilets: For areas that are more remote within the campground or primitive sites, vault toilets are also available.

• Hot Showers: Taylor Ferry South is equipped with showers, a much-appreciated amenity for cleaning up after a day of outdoor activities. While generally clean, some reviews suggest that ventilation might be limited, leading to wet bathroom floors.

• Picnic Tables & Fire Rings: Each campsite comes equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, perfect for outdoor meals and evening campfires.

• Boat Ramp: A boat ramp is available on-site, providing direct and convenient access to Fort Gibson Lake for boating enthusiasts.

• Playground Equipment: A designated playground area with swings, a slide, and monkey bars, set in sand, is located across the highway from the campground, offering entertainment for younger visitors.

• Camp Host/Staff On Site: The presence of camp hosts or staff ensures assistance is available for questions, issues, and general park oversight.

• Year-Round Operation: The campground is open year-round, though fee collection might be by self-deposit during the off-peak season (October 1 – March 31).

• Beautiful Lakeside Setting: The campground’s location directly on the shores of Fort Gibson Lake offers "beautiful views" and easy access to the water, creating a picturesque and relaxing environment.

• Managed by Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE): Being an ACOE campground generally means well-maintained facilities and adherence to federal standards for recreational areas, often indicating a reliable and well-run park.

• Excellent Fishing: Fort Gibson Lake is renowned for its fishing opportunities, with abundant black bass, white bass, crappie, catfish, and panfish. Direct access from the campground makes it an angler's paradise.

• Sandy Swimming Beach: There is a designated "sandy swimming beach" with a gradual slope to the water's edge, perfect for swimming and sunbathing, especially for families.

• Quiet Atmosphere: Despite its popularity, the campground maintains a "very nice" and generally quiet atmosphere, allowing visitors to truly unwind.

• Heavily Wooded & Shaded Sites: Taylor Ferry South is described as a "heavily wooded campground that provides an abundance of shade for rest and relaxation," a significant benefit during warmer Oklahoma months.

• Proximity to Attractions: Beyond the lake, the campground is close to other attractions like Historic Fort Gibson, a National Historical Landmark offering reenactments and a glimpse into Oklahoma's past.

• Despite Flooding, Still a Favorite: One review notably states, "Even flooded right now it's still our favorite place to go!" highlighting the enduring appeal and loyalty of its visitors.

Address: Taylor Ferry South Recreation Area, E 750 Rd, Wagoner, OK 74467, USA (For GPS, it's recommended to use: 33814 E. 746 Rd., Wagoner, OK 74467, and follow signs.)

Phone: (918) 485-4792

Mobile Phone: +1 918-485-4792

For Oklahomans, Taylor Ferry South Campground on Fort Gibson Lake is an incredibly suitable and appealing destination for a multitude of reasons, making it a fantastic choice for your next local outdoor adventure. Its unique combination of natural beauty, extensive amenities, and accessible location truly caters to the desires of state residents seeking both relaxation and recreation.

Firstly, its prime setting on Fort Gibson Lake immediately appeals to those who cherish water activities. Whether you’re an avid angler hoping to reel in black bass or crappie, a boater eager to explore the expansive waters, or a family looking for a safe sandy beach to swim, Taylor Ferry South provides direct and convenient access. This proximity means less travel time and more quality time spent on or by the water, a significant draw for many Oklahomans.

Secondly, being an Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE) operated campground instills a sense of reliability and quality. ACOE parks are generally well-maintained and offer a consistent level of service. The presence of essential amenities like electric and water hookups, multiple dump stations, and clean shower houses ensures a comfortable camping experience for RVers and tent campers alike. While the shared water spigots might require a splitter, it's a minor detail easily managed for the convenience of full hookups. The shaded campsites, provided by the heavily wooded environment, are particularly valued during Oklahoma's warmer months, offering a cool respite.

Furthermore, the "very quiet" atmosphere is a significant draw for locals looking to genuinely escape the noise and demands of everyday life. It’s a place where you can truly unwind, listen to nature, and enjoy peaceful evenings under the stars. The existence of a playground also makes it family-friendly, ensuring children have a dedicated space for fun and play. Even the enthusiastic review noting it's "still our favorite place to go" even when "flooded" speaks volumes about the loyalty and affection local campers have for this site, highlighting its enduring appeal despite minor inconveniences.

In essence, Taylor Ferry South Campground offers a comprehensive and authentic Oklahoma outdoor experience. It's an accessible, well-equipped, and serene lakeside retreat that provides everything needed for memorable camping trips, fishing excursions, and family fun. For Oklahomans, it’s not just a campground; it’s a cherished local spot for rejuvenation and connection with the natural beauty of their home state.