Elephant Rock Cedar Cove And Tipps Point Campgrounds
Elephant Rock, Cedar Cove, and Tipps Point Campgrounds are all accessed through the same entrance. This entrance is located along the scenic highway 77S just south of Dukes Forest and just north of the main park entrance and state park office. Both day-use and overnight camping are available in this area. There is a swim beach and picnic area that visitors can use during the day.
The entrance to these campgrounds is the only pay entrance that we know of in the state park. There is a vehicle entrance fee. Please check with the park directly for current fees.
Tipps Point is a beautiful campground for both tents and RVs. Many of the campsites have wonderful views of Lake Murray.
Amenities of Tipps Point include:
Tent camping
Restrooms with showers
Lake Murray Lodge And Cabins
The Lake Murray Lodge and Cabins area is the main entrance area of the park and is home to the park office. This area holds the park lodge, cabins, floating cabins, Lake Murray Water Sports, beach area, tennis court, hiking trails, and more. We detail all of this area on its own on the lodge and cabins page.
All lodge and cabin reservations should be made online at the TravelOK website.
Lake Murray State Park Is Perfect For Outdoor Enthusiasts Of Any Age
Boating by Lake Murray’s Elephant RockLake Murray Floating Boat Dock
No matter what type of trails you prefer, you can probably find them at Lake Murray State Park. With over 30 miles of trails, those who want to hike or bike have options. In addition to some easy level paved paths, there’s more difficult trails, some with hills, available for hiking and biking. There’s trails for trail riding and even hundreds of acres of trails for off-roading on ATVs.
Those interested in participating in other sporting activities will find both golf and miniature golf courses as well as baseball and softball fields or tennis and volleyball courts. Younger kids will enjoy spending a part of their day on one of the many playgrounds located throughout the park.
Playground in Cedar Cove Campground
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Camping Options At Lake Murray State Park
Our original plan was to spend two nights at the state park. Just under a month before our planned arrival, we added one additional night prior to our two night reservation. As there were no spaces with three consecutive days of availability, we had the opportunity to stay in two of the park’s campgrounds on the northern side of the lake.
Reservations And Interior Camping Permits
Paddling: Campsite specific reservations are available online or by phone up to five months in advance of your arrival date. Reservations are recommended to secure your campsite.
Hiking: Campsite specific reservations are available online or by phone up to five months in advance of your arrival date for the La Cloche Silhouette hiking trail.
Reservations are recommended to secure your campsite
Interior camping permits are required for backcountry camping at Killarney Provincial Park.
Visitors can obtain permits upon arrival at the following locations:
- George Lake campground and Killarney backcountry access George Lake campground office
- Bell Lake backcountry access Bell Lake access point
- Highway 6 access point All permits for the west end of the park interior can be picked up at the Highway 6 access point
- The Crack day use hike Day use permits can be purchased at the Crack Trail access point
- Chickanishing Creek Trail assess point, Georgian Bay access point Day use Permits can be purchased at the Chickanishing Creek Trail access point.
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Entering Lake Murray State Park
There is a day use fee of $5 per vehicle for Tipp’s Point, Cedar Cove, and Elephant Rock.
Were very excited that youre planning a trip to Lake Murray State Park. Once youve finished exploring all that the park has to offer, there are also some incredible opportunities waiting for you outside of its gates! During or after your stay, we encourage you to tag us in any of your social media posts, or why not share your photos and experience with us at ? We may even feature your story on our blog or social media channels. Happy camping!
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Inside Lake Murray State Park
Lake Murray State Park might be popular for camping, but people also flock here because of the wide range of fun outdoor activities on offer. Whether youre hoping to enjoy water sports, fishing, swimming, golfing, exploring the parks trails, or more theres something for every type of traveler at Lake Murray.
Water sports : Lake Murray offers over 5,700 acres of water for water sports and activities, including water skiing, wakeboarding, jet skiing, canoeing, kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, sailing, and more. Lake Murray Water Sports & Mini Golf is a rental business located inside the park, with paddleboats, canoes, kayaks, stand-up paddle boards, sail boats, water trampolines, water slides, wave runners, fishing boats, and Island Cruisers available to rent.
Fishing : The fishing at Lake Murray is excellent and is known for great largemouth and smallmouth bass fishing. If youre in need of supplies, visit Lake Murray Marina for boat rentals, life jackets, boat fenders, dock lines, anchors, fishing equipment, live bait, frozen bait, and more. A valid fishing license is required.
Swimming : Lake Murray has several beach areas located around the lake. Sunset Beach is the most popular, but other swimming beaches include Marina Beach, Martins Landing Beach, and Resort Lodge Beach.
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How To Get There
Getting to Lake Murray from Oklahoma City is a breeze. Take I-35 South past the towns of Moore and Norman, and toward the city of Ardmore. Take Exit 24 and travel east a few miles to Lake Murray State Park. Highway 77S is the primary route that accesses all the lake sites and activities. It runs all the way around the lake, meeting up with Highway 70 on both the northwest and the northeast corners. The drive, scenic and interesting, is an attraction in and of itself.
Lake Murray State Park
Welcome to Lake Murray State Park! This is the first and largest state park in Oklahoma. Lake Murray is entirely surrounded by Lake Murray State Park. There is one scenic highway that runs around the entire park. You can use the scenic highway to get to all of the areas, campgrounds, beaches, and more within Lake Murray State Park.
Lake Murray State Park covers a massive 12,500 acres almost half of which is the lake itself. The remainder are the scenic surrounding areas including parks, beaches, hiking trails, campgrounds, an ATV/motorcycle area, 18-hole golf course, cabins, boat ramps and more.
Within the park:
Floating cabins for rent
Tent and RV campsites
All camping, cabin, and lodge reservations should be made online at the TravelOK website.
If you have any issues with your reservations or have specific questions about the park please call the park directly at 580-223-4044.
You should always contact the park directly before driving long distances to check camping availability.
Please be aware there are daily parking fees now required throughout Lake Murray State Park. These fees start at $10 per vehicle per day. You can find more information on the parking fees on the TravelOK.com website.
The new Lake Murray Lodge features 32 spacious rooms, waterfront restaurant that looks out over the lake, ballroom, and meeting rooms.
Below we will detail most of the park areas within the state park. We will have a separate page on campgrounds, beaches, and the golf course.
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Things To Do Around Lake Murray State Park
The rest of Lake Murray State Park has many amenities. There is a golf course on the west side of the lake. A lodge and convention center are also on the west side of the lake. There are also mini-cabins by the lodging and golfing area. There is also a splash pad, mini-golf, and swim adventure park all by the lodge. Finally, dont forget about boat marina located on the southwest side of the lake for all your summertime fun!
There are also swimming areas throughout the lake property. There is a small nature center too. Tucker Tower is also a wonderful spot to visit due to its unique look and the ability to go to the top and have a wonderful view! There are also several hiking trails around the nature center and tucker tower. A museum and history exposé are located in Tucker Tower. Lake Murray State Park has every lake option you can dream up.
Explore History At Lake Murray State Park
CCCWPANational Register of Historic Places
Although replaced in the mid-1950’s, a historic water tower, pump house and well were built by the young men of the CCC. Water service to the lodge and cabins within the park originally depended upon these structures.
CCC Built Pump HouseLake Murray Water Tower
Both adults and children will enjoy spending some time in the Lake Murray Nature Center. Donations are accepted for the fee-free educational museum filled with interactive and historical exhibits about the park. The back deck is a nice place to watch park visitors enjoying the waters of Lake Murray.
View from the Back Deck of the Lake Murray Nature Center
The WPA began construction of Tucker Tower, located a short uphill climb behind the nature center, in 1933. The tower was originally intended to be a retreat home for the governor of Oklahoma. Building was halted in 1935 to focus all resources on winning World War II. The historic structure was finally completed and opened as a geological museum in 1954. The tower has served as a part of the nature center since the late 1970s.
Tucker TowerLake Murray State Park’s Tucker Tower
Don’t miss both floors of exhibits inside the tower which include video and other exhibits about the creation of the park. Before you leave, climb up the spiral staircase for some awesome views from the top.
Example of Equipment used to Create Lake Murray State ParkView from Tucker Tower
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Lake Murray State Park: The Complete Guide
Lake Murray State Park, Oklahoma’s first state park, is named after former Oklahoma governor William H. “Alfalfa Bill” Murray. This 12,500-acre park includes a human-made reservoir , a large lodge, cabins, campsites, beaches, and recreational areas. It is one of the state’s most popular spots for fishing and boating, as its spring-fed waters are crystal clear and filled with several species of fish. Whether you’re a longtime Oklahoma City resident looking for a quick getaway, or an out-of-town guest hoping to spice up your visit to the state, a trip to Lake Murray State Park will offer you recreational opportunities that put you smack dab in the middle of nature.
The Best Hikes & Trails
The extensive trail system at Lake Murray State Park provides multi-use trails for hikers, bikers, and horseback riders. Trails can be rocky, tree-lined, and sandy, and low-lying routes can become flooded after a storm . Water and restrooms are available at most trailheads and along some routes.
- Elephant Rock Trail: This paved, 2.2-mile trail is suitable for beginner hikers and walkers who want to connect with nature. Take the kids along, or use this trail to access one of the other hikes that stem off of this main connector.
- Buckhorn Hiking Trail: The Buckhorn Trail offers great views of the lake and the park’s wooded setting with a 3.4-mile out-and-back. Look out for signs of wildlife, like deer and wild hogs, and wear hiking boots, as this trail can be muddy after it rains.
- Ski Jump Trail: This 6-mile trail starts at the Ski Jump Campground and takes you into the woods, offering a scenic view of the lake. Mountain bikers frequent this route, as it’s a good beginner bike trail for kids. Dogs are allowed on this path with a leash.
- North Anadarche Trail: Head out from the Dukes Forest Campground for a 6.6-mile out-and-back trail that hugs the lake. Pack along a fishing rod, as you’ll have ample opportunities to stop and cast. Set out in the morning or before dusk if you want to see wildlife, and watch out for mountain bikers.
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Lake Murray State Park Oklahoma Review
Lake Murray State Park Martins Landing campground was a dream! We got a wonderful spot and it was right on the water! The campground was also very quiet. Perfect spring weather and a little rain too. This place is a perfect spot if you want to relax and enjoy the water. The park is all about water fun! There are swimming spots, boat ramps, and rentals to make use of this awesome blue lake!
Lake Murray State Parks Lodging And Camping Reservations Booked Leading Into Memorial Day
LAKE MURRAY, Okla. – Camping and lodging reservations at Lake Murray State Park are completely booked leading into Memorial Day.
Visitors like Brett Martin of Lawton plan to spend the Memorial Day weekend at the Martins Landing Campground. Hes there with his wife, friends and kids, Averie and Sierra.
Were out here camping, this is my first time camping and Im tryin to put this tent together with no directions, said Martin.
Murray State Park Lodge Manager, Michael Cooley said if Brett and his family didnt reserve ahead of time, then he wouldnt have been on the lake.
Theres no room, not at all, No camping, RV, no lodge, no cabins, sold out, said Cooley.
Just Friday Alone, he had to turn down dozens of people because they were full. He said everything is booked for Memorial Day, Fourth of July and Labor Day.
But! Definitely call and get on the waitlist, because people cancel, said Cooley.
Cooley said the park is still opening for those wanting to come by, but hes asking people to plan to be safe if they get into the water.
He said they can find free life vets to barrow at every campground, beach or water attraction.
Im thankful everyday for what they do for us and for our freedom, its a very important thing, said Martin.
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Top 3 Camping Spots In Lake Murray Country
The hot days of summer will soon be over. Looking forward to a fall getaway? When I think of fall, I think of cooler temperatures, changing leaves, and sitting fire side. Whether you travel with family, friends or as a couple, camping is a perfect way to get away from at all. Leave your electronics at home and explore the great outdoors! Weve compiled a list of the top 3 camping spots in Lake Murray Country.
Dreher Island State Park, located on Lake Murray, is highly recommended for camping and FUN. Take advantage of the wide variety of activities around the park and sparkling Lake Murrayfishing, swimming, birdwatching and even Geo-caching are the perfect activities to do while youre there. You can bring your own tent, trailer or RV. There are 95 paved RV spots and 15 tent camping sites and up to six guests are allowed per site. If you are looking for a Glamping adventure, this park has 5 lakeside villas and ten camper campers for rent on a year-round basis. For more information on this beautiful spot on the shores of Lake Murray visit .
Campers are required to have a reservation to camp in either of the two front country campgrounds, Longleaf Campground and Bluff campground. Reservations for the campgrounds must be made through recreation.gov or by calling 8774446777. Only tents and hammocks are allowed in the campgrounds.
Additional Accommodation Options Within Lake Murray State Park
Online reservations can be made for anyone hoping to stay in one of the more intimate cottages, a cabin large enough for a family or a guest room in the lodge. Guests staying in the lodge even have exclusive access to amenities including a splash pad area and an outdoor swimming pool.
Exclusive Amenities for Lake Murray Lodge Guests
Access to the Lake Murray Floating Cabins is restricted to only those with reservations. In addition to rather uncommon sleeping quarters, floating cabin guests can even moor their personal watercraft at their doorstep!
Lake Murray’s Floating Cabins
There’s a variety of options for those planning larger group events from family reunions to business meetings and everything in between. Of course, there’s always the option of reserving a block of campsites, cottages, cabins or rooms. Those desiring a more rustic atmosphere can also opt for a group camp. Additionally, there are cabins and floating cabins large enough to accommodate bigger groups. There are even meeting rooms available in the lodge.
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Where To Stay Nearby
If you want to turn a day trip into a weekend, but don’t feel like roughing it, a few lodging options are available both inside and outside the park. Lake Murray’s floating cabins assure you never need to leave the water’s edge, while a romantic bed and breakfast better suits those looking for a couples-only retreat.
Lake Murray Lodge And Cabins & Lake Murray Golf Course
82° Humid and Partly Cloudy
Humid and partly cloudy throughout the day.
Lake Murray State Park is Oklahoma’s first and largest state park consisting of 12,500 acres of forested, rolling hills around beautiful Lake Murray. The park’s diverse terrain, exceptional trails and historic sites make Lake Murray State Park a favorite destination among outdoor, water sport and ATV riding enthusiasts.
Staying at the park is easy with your choice between RV and tent campgrounds, 56 cabins dotted throughout beautiful Lake Murray State Park and a modern lodge. Make your online reservation for an RV or tent site. Some RV sites feature full hookups, with a variety of pull-through sites, and bath and shower houses. Six campgrounds are open 24 hours a day, and Elephant Rock, Cedar Cove and Tipps Point are gated. Other campgrounds include Duke’s Forest, ATV campground, Martin’s Landing, Rock Tower, Marietta Landing and Buzzard’s Roost. Three seasonal group camps are also located within the park.
For a more secluded experience, book one of the park’s 56 cabins, many of which are historic structures built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps. These state park cabins feature everything from cozy cottages for two up to large family-size cabins. For a small fee, pets are allowed in select cabins. Reserve state park cabins and lodge rooms online, or call 580-223-6600.
- Total Capacity of Meeting Space: 540
Highway Corridors
- I-35
Special Rating
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