Winding Stair Campground

Welcome to Winding Stair Campground, a hidden gem nestled high in the Ouachita National Forest, near the charming community of Hodgen, Oklahoma. For Oklahomans seeking a truly immersive and peaceful outdoor experience, far removed from the hustle and bustle of city life, this campground offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with nature. It’s a place where the air is crisp, the views are breathtaking, and the sounds of the wilderness are your constant companions.

Situated along the magnificent Talimena Scenic Byway, Winding Stair Campground is more than just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent; it’s a gateway to some of Oklahoma’s most spectacular landscapes. The Ouachita National Forest, known for its rolling mountains, dense forests, and extensive trail systems, provides an ideal backdrop for all kinds of outdoor adventures. This campground, though offering a more rustic experience without electrical or water hookups at individual sites, is perfectly suited for those who appreciate the simpler joys of camping, prioritizing privacy, natural beauty, and direct access to wilderness trails.

This article will provide a clear, engaging, and informative overview of Winding Stair Campground. We will delve into its unique location and accessibility along the scenic byway, detail the essential services and features it offers, provide important contact information, and ultimately, explain why this secluded mountain retreat is particularly suitable for locals looking to embrace the authentic outdoor experiences that their home state proudly provides.

Winding Stair Campground is conveniently located along the Talimena Scenic Byway (Oklahoma State Highway 1), two miles west of the US Highway 259 junction in Hodgen, OK 74939, USA. This prime location places it atop the crest of the Winding Stair Mountains within the expansive Ouachita National Forest. For Oklahomans, this means a picturesque and enjoyable drive along one of the state's most famous scenic routes, making the journey to the campground part of the adventure itself.

The campground is easily accessible directly from the Talimena Scenic Byway, with clear signage guiding visitors. While the area offers a sense of remote tranquility, its location on a well-known highway ensures straightforward navigation. Its elevation on a ridge provides a cool mountain breeze, especially during the spring and fall, enhancing the overall camping experience. Importantly, it serves as a trailhead for the 192-mile Ouachita National Recreation Trail, allowing hikers to step directly from their campsite onto this renowned path. The physical address, 52175 US Hwy 59, Hodgen, OK 74939, can also be used for mail and inquiries with the US Forest Service - Ouachita National Forest Oklahoma Ranger District. Its accessibility and integration into a larger recreational area make it an ideal base for locals eager to explore the natural wonders of southeastern Oklahoma.

• Developed RV/Tent Campsites: The campground features 23 developed campsites, all with paved surfaces for RVs and gravel tent pads for tent setup. These sites are "Standard Nonelectric."
• No Electrical Hookups: It's important to note that no electricity is available at the campground, making it ideal for those who prefer dry camping or are self-sufficient.
• No Potable Water: Currently, water is not available at the campground. Campers must bring their own water for drinking, cooking, and hygiene.
• Vault Toilets: The campground provides three vault toilets, offering basic restroom facilities.
• Individual Site Amenities: Each campsite is equipped with paved spurs, grills, fire rings, lantern poles, and tent pads, providing essential elements for outdoor living and cooking.
• Backpackers Camp: A dedicated Backpackers Camp is located adjacent to the main campground (about 300 feet west). This area offers designated tent pads and is available on a first-come, first-served basis year-round.
• First-Come, First-Served Sites: All sites at Winding Stair Campground are available on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning no reservations are accepted. Visitors must physically arrive to claim and pay for a site.
• Payment Options: On-site payment can be made with cash, check, money order, or by scanning a QR code using the Recreation.gov mobile app. It's recommended to download the app prior to arrival due to potential limited cell service.
• Trash Service: While not explicitly detailed, it is customary for Forest Service campgrounds to provide trash receptacles to maintain cleanliness.
• Seasonal Operation: The main campground is generally open from March 1 to December 1, while the Backpackers Camp remains open year-round.
• Pets Allowed: The campground is pet-friendly, allowing visitors to bring their furry companions.

• Stunning Mountain-Top Location: Winding Stair Campground is uniquely situated atop the Winding Stair Mountains, offering picturesque "mountain-top and valley views" from Emerald Vista, located directly adjacent to the campground.
• Direct Access to Talimena Scenic Byway: The campground's position on Oklahoma State Highway 1, the Talimena Scenic Byway, makes it incredibly accessible and part of a renowned scenic drive.
• Ouachita National Recreation Trailhead: A significant highlight is its role as a trailhead for the 192-mile Ouachita National Recreation Trail, providing immediate access for hikers and backpackers to explore extensive wilderness paths.
• Private and Peaceful Setting: Reviewers consistently praise the campground for its "very private" and "peaceful setting," ideal for those seeking solitude and a quiet escape. Even during a busy Halloween night, it remained uncrowded.
• Well-Shaded Campsites: All campsites are "well shaded," providing natural relief from the sun and enhancing comfort during warmer seasons.
• Cool Mountain Temperatures: Especially during spring and fall, the elevation brings cooler mountain temperatures, creating an ideal climate for outdoor activities.
• Paved Roads and Campsites: The campground features paved roadways and individual paved campsites, offering a smooth surface for RVs and vehicles, making setup easier.
• Basic but Essential Amenities: While lacking electricity and water at sites, the provision of vault toilets, fire rings, grills, and lantern poles ensures a functional and enjoyable camping experience.
• Ideal for Dry Camping/Boondocking Enthusiasts: Its lack of hookups makes it a perfect spot for campers who are equipped for dry camping or boondocking, offering an "inexpensive almost-boondocking sites" experience.
• Backpackers Camp for Year-Round Use: The adjacent, year-round Backpackers Camp provides a flexible option for tent campers seeking a more rustic, walk-in style experience.
• Beautiful Fall Foliage: The surrounding Ouachita National Forest is renowned for its stunning fall foliage, making autumn a particularly spectacular time to visit.

Address: Winding Stair Campground, Hodgen, OK 74939, USA (Located on Talimena Scenic Drive, Oklahoma State Highway 1, two miles west of US Highway 259 junction).

Mailing Address for Management: US Forest Service - Ouachita National Forest Oklahoma Ranger District, 52175 US Hwy 59, Hodgen, OK 74939.

Phone: (580) 494-6402 (Oklahoma Ranger District)

Mobile Phone: +1 580-494-6402

For Oklahomans seeking a truly authentic and peaceful outdoor experience, Winding Stair Campground stands out as an exceptionally suitable destination. Its location atop the scenic Winding Stair Mountains, within the vast Ouachita National Forest, offers a deep immersion into nature that feels both remote and profoundly rejuvenating. For residents across the state, the drive along the Talimena Scenic Byway itself is a picturesque journey, making the trip to the campground an integral part of the adventure without requiring excessive travel.

The suitability for locals lies in its unique balance of primitive charm and essential comforts. While Winding Stair Campground doesn't offer electrical or water hookups at individual sites, this very characteristic appeals to the growing number of Oklahomans who are equipped for dry camping or prefer a more "back-to-nature" experience. The paved sites, individual picnic tables, fire rings, and lantern poles provide a well-maintained and functional base, allowing campers to comfortably enjoy campfires, outdoor cooking, and the serene environment. The presence of clean vault toilets, along with the option to pay via the Recreation.gov app, demonstrates a thoughtful blend of rustic appeal with modern convenience.

Furthermore, Winding Stair Campground serves as a direct gateway to some of Oklahoma’s most prized natural assets. Its role as a trailhead for the Ouachita National Recreation Trail means that unparalleled hiking opportunities are literally steps away from your campsite. The breathtaking views from Emerald Vista, adjacent to the campground, offer stunning panoramic vistas of the Ouachita National Forest, providing a profound sense of connection to the state's natural beauty. For Oklahomans, whether they are experienced backpackers, families seeking a quiet escape, or individuals looking to simply unwind in a private, natural setting, Winding Stair Campground offers an ideal and well-worth-the-visit destination, promising a memorable and refreshing outdoor adventure close to home.