Lake Thunderbird State Park
Norman, OK 73026
Phone: 405-360-3572
Fax: 405-366-8150

Lake Thunderbird State Park offers a variety of water activities and recreation. The park features two marinas (Calypso Cove Marina and Little River Marina), nine boat ramps and two swim beaches. The Discovery Cove Nature Center, where the adventure begins, is located in the Clear Bay area. Deer archery and waterfowl hunting are available in designated areas during the applicable seasons. Horseback riding, boarding and hay rides are available at Thunderbird Riding Stables. An array of hiking, mountain biking and nature trails are also available in Lake Thunderbird State Park. Accommodations include over 200 RV sites with 30 full hookup sites, restroom facilities and primitive campsites. Lake Thunderbird State Park also features playgrounds, picnic tables, an archery range and a seasonal restaurant. The park also offers nine picnic shelters for groups, which may be reserved through the park office.
Lake Thunderbird State Park offers a variety of water activities and recreation. The park features two marinas (Calypso Cove Marina and Little River Marina), nine boat ramps and two swim beaches. The Discovery Cove Nature Center, where the adventure begins, is located in the Clear Bay area. Deer archery and waterfowl hunting are available in designated areas during the applicable seasons. Horseback riding, boarding and hay rides are available at Thunderbird Riding Stables. An array of hiking, mountain biking and nature trails are also available in Lake Thunderbird State Park. Accommodations include over 200 RV sites with 30 full hookup sites, restroom facilities and primitive campsites. Lake Thunderbird State Park also features playgrounds, picnic tables, an archery range and a seasonal restaurant. The park also offers nine picnic shelters for groups, which may be reserved through the park office.
***NOTICE*** (May 08, 2013) The Lake Thunderbird State Park office will be open extended hours (8:00AM to 6:30PM) from May 22, 2013 to May 25, 2013 for our Memorial Day visitors.
***NOTICE*** (May 08, 2013) Lake elevation is currently four foot (4') three inches (3") below normal conservation pool. Due to low lake levels, the boat ramps at North Sentinel, Sailboat, Post Oak, Turkey Pass and South Dam are closed. Boat ramps remain open at Little Axe, Fisherman's Point, Denver Corner and Hog Creek; however, caution should be used when launching and loading watercraft.
***NOTICE*** (May 08, 2013) The Little Axe tent areas are being renovated. Tent camping is still permitted in the Little Axe campground on RV pads only. Due to the inconvenience of the construction phase, all camping (tent and RV) will be charged at a rate of $20.00 from 2pm to 2pm the following day.
Facility Amenities: ADA Compliant, Campsites, Credit Cards Accepted, Dump Station, Elec. 30 Amp, Elec. 50 Amp, Full Hookups, Grills, Handicapped Parking, Marina, Naturalist on site, Office WiFi, Park Ranger, Pets Allowed, Picnic Area, Playground, Pull Thru Sites, Restaurant on site, Restrooms, Showers, Swim Beach, Water Hookup, Waterfront Sites
Group Amenities: Advance Group Reservations Required, Bus/Motorcoach Parking
On-site Activities: Archery, Biking, Boating, Canoeing/Rafting/Kayaking, Fishing, Hiking, Horseback Riding, Hunting, Swimming, Watchable Wildlife, Waterskiing
On-site Lodging: RV Sites, Tent Sites
Rentals: Canoe Rental, Horse Rental, Paddleboat Rental, Tube Rental
Day | Open | Close |
|---|---|---|
Sunday | 8:00 am | 4:30 pm |
Monday | 8:00 am | 4:30 pm |
Tuesday | 8:00 am | 4:30 pm |
Wednesday | 8:00 am | 4:30 pm |
Thursday | 8:00 am | 4:30 pm |
Friday | 8:00 am | 4:30 pm |
Saturday | 8:00 am | 4:30 pm |
The hours listed above are the operating times for Lake Thunderbird's Indian Point park office, located on the north side of the lake at 13101 Alameda Drive. The park is open for camping 24 hours a day, 365 days a year in designated camping areas. | ||
RV Camping: $20-$28 per night.
Tent Camping: $12-$17 per night.
While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the pricing listed above, prices are subject to change without notice.
Located 13 miles east of Norman on Alameda Dr, 11 miles south of I-40 on Choctaw Road Exit 166, or 15 miles east of I-35 on Hwy 9.
Primary Contact: | Susie Snider |
Event Contact: | Kathleen Regan |
105 comments
Jeston, you will need to contact the Lake Thunderbird State Park staff at 405-360-3572 for more information. Thank you for using TravelOK.com!
still don's know where to hunt in the park. Your web site is not clear on this.
Nathan, we're sure you and your friends will have a great camping trip at Lake Thunderbird State Park. If you'll click on the red link above that says 'Lake Thunderbird State Park Map' you can see all the available campgrounds. If you have any questions, please call 405-360-3572. Best wishes and thank you for using TravelOK.com!
I am thinking of camping here with a couple of friends from bsnd
Brian, we post all of the current lake conditions on checkmyoklake.com. Just scroll through to Lake Thunderbird and you will have all the information you need to decide whether or not to swim. Best wishes and thank you for using TracelOK.com!
We are planning to be in the area the last week of May, and wondering if swimming will be open on the lake... please advise. Thanks!
Chuck, South Dam will be open to boating if we get the needed rain to raise the lake levels. The most recent information will be posted on this page and at travelok.com/checkmyoklake/. Best wishes and thank you for using TravelOK.com!
D, please contact the state park staff at 405-360-3572 and they will be able to give you more information about getting married at the park. Best wishes and thank you for using TravelOK.com!
When will south dam be open to boating?
Is there a spot to get married over or near the water?
Fisherman - please contact the park office @ (405) 360-3572 and ask to speak with the Park Manager. I would like a little more information so that I can properly address your concerns with the appropriate personnel. Thank you. ~Susie Snider~
I am fairly new to the thunderbird area and frequently fish the lake. I am very impressed with the lake itself but the Park Rangers WOW!!! Let me tell you they are something else. I have never been to a lake were the rangers would harass you so much. I am just a simple country boy. I enjoy fishing and just like to be outdoors. I have made numerous trips to thunderbird in recent months and it never fails a Ranger pops up out of no where and bothers me while I am peacefully fishing even accuse me of not fishing when I have three lines in the water. I don't know what is up with the guys, but I have never had any problems like this with law enforcement. Also I have never once been asked for a fishing liscense from any of these Rangers they just basically interogate and treat me as a criminal when I am just out there for peace and quiet with a bonus of catching some dinner in the process. Other than harassing park rangers great lake
Mark, as of three days ago, Lake Thunderbird was 7.5 feet below normal conservation pool, and boat ramps at North Sentinel, Sailboat, Post Oak and South Dam are closed. Of course public safety is paramount, but at this time there is no truth to the rumors of closing the lake. We will post the most up-to-date information for Lake Thunderbird State Park on this page, so please check back often or call the park directly at 405-360-3572. Cross your fingers for rain, and thank you for using TravelOK.com!
I'm hearing rumors the lake will be closed to boat traffic this season, especially if water levels do not improve. Any truth to this?
ToryDon - Thank you for the positive feedback. Your comments are greatly appreciated! Lake Thunderbird's staff (along with a variety of volunteer groups and individuals) work very hard to keep the 20 plus miles of trails maintained in the Clear Bay area. We also have around five miles of hiking only trails, located on the north side of the lake, throughout the Indian Point area and paved ADA trails located by the South Dam and Turkey Pass campgrounds. Trail maps can be obtained at the park office and the Discovery Cove nature center. Happy hiking!
I am so very impressed with the trail improvements that have occurred here over the past few years. My family went out the other day--hadn't walked the trails in ages--and wow! We hiked part of the Gold trail in the Clear Bay trails area. After viewing the dips and twists and fantastic erosion control platforms we want to take up mountain biking. They look like so much fun. Good job Thunderbird and the State of Oklahoma Parks and Rec.
Sheila - Lake Thunderbird State Park is really a lovely park with many activities that would certainly keep your boys occupied. I would encourage you to spend some time with us and allow the boys to visit our nature center, take a horseback ride, rent a watercraft from either of our two marinas, have lunch or dinner on the deck of our restaurant or just simply sit back and enjoy the nature that surrounds Lake Thunderbird State Park. We would love to be your "favorite" State Park!
Wow, I was looking for a different lake to take my boys for fishing/camping ect. I'm a widow and decided that it's my job to show my boys the little things in life that are fun. This doesn't look like the lake for us due to the sarcasm in the posts. We went to Fort Cobb almost every weekend last summer but the bugs and wild hogs can get nasty. Such is life.....will keep looking.
Thank You. Where may I meet you and show you the Picture Book of Lake Thunderbird? I'll be making several in years to come!
Stephen - thank you for taking the time out of your busy schedule to post a comment regarding your recent visit to Lake Thunderbird State Park. We appreciate receiving comments as they are a tool that we use in determining whether or not we are living up to our visitor expectations. Please know that we will be visiting with the appropriate individuals regarding your comment. I also am extremely interested in viewing the "picture book" that you are dedicating to Lake Thunderbird State Park. Photographers have the skill and ability to provide photos that the visitor often does not get to enjoy!
So the other day my friend and I were at 132nd and alameda beach combing just with our hands and eyes when a park ranger stopped us. He pretty much interrogated us for 20 minutes asking us if we had weapons, where we lived, how I knew my friend...really bothering questions, he also did a backround check on us during that time..Very Rude Guy! Of course my friend and I are clean, he accused us of looking at him and running off which at that time we were maybe a 1/4 of a mile away from him...and then he said we were suspicious looking...I love coming to Lake Thunderbird it's a great place to be, but this Park ranger sure makes it unpleasant... and again today 1/13/13 he accused me of metal detecting when all I had was a Camera taking pictures of the clouds and birds,I'm a Photographer...He keeps harrasing me, I wanna know what's his problem towards me..This Ranger is tall skinny and he chews a lot...I'm dedicating a picture book towards Lake Thunderbird..This park ranger REALLY needs a talking too...Recently I wrote several stories about Denver, OK which is under the lake and it was in the Norman Magazine. It was in the Oct/Nov Issue last year and another story is coming out Next month...Hope this problem will get taken care of! Please
Renee, you may stay in the same campsite for up to 14 days. After that, please check with the park manager for an extension request, which is granted based on season and availability. Best wishes and thank you for using TravelOK.com!
How long can a person camp with a RV?
Shari, full hookups are available year-round at the Hickory Hill and Little Sandy 50 amp campgrounds. If you have any questions please feel free to contact Thunderbird State Park directly at 405-360-3572. Thank you for using TravelOK.com!
are there any FULL hookups open now?
KB, RV camping with hookups will be available at the Hog Creek, Hickory Hill, Turkey Pass and South Dam Campgrounds. You can see the location of these campgrounds by clicking the Lake Thunderbird State Park Map located on the right hand side of the page. Best wishes and thank you for using TravelOK.com!
Which campgrounds are open during winter with electric hook ups?
i have lived in oklahoma most of my life. i figured out that it can be a nightmare. but there is more good things here than you would realize. yes some rangers as well as just people here are a new experience. even hard on the mind. thunderbird is not my favorite place to camp and fish. but there are several more places. oklahoma is very rich with all sorts of things. like the selenite crystals in jet oklahoma, or robbers cave, roman nose, blue river, black mesa, ohh much much more. do you know that there is over 200 lakes, rivers, and streams. plus something like 60 or so state parks. thats a lot to me. my husband and i have camped year round and all over Oklahoma. we still have not camped it all. i do have to agree there are rude people in oklahoma. but there everywhere.
Aislinn, if you're looking to stay this time of the year, the only tent-only campground at Lake Thunderbird State Park is South Dam. According to park staff, the most private campground would be the Little Sandy tent area all the way at the very end. All Oklahoma State Park campsites are based on a set fee of $12-$28 based on what amenities the site offers. To see a complete list of rates, click on 'State Park FAQs' on the right side of the screen. Best wishes and thank you for using TravelOK.com!
What is the best campsite to go to for a more private, tent-only area with a view of the lake? Also, is there any place I can get a list of fees for each campsite?
Mitch - Misc is correct in that there is not a new campground at Lake Thunderbird State Park and that South Dam Campground was completely renovated and designated campsites established. We are going to start that same process at Little Axe Campground at the end of October. We'll look forward to welcoming you to Little Axe once that project is complete.rnrnMisc. - Thank you for your kind comments regarding the addition of a camp host in the South Dam area.
There isn't a new campground at Lake Thunderbird. However, the South Dam Campground was completely renovated and designated campsites were established. The addition of the camp host has significantly enhanced the saftey in the campground.
I heard that there was a new campground put in this summer for tents. What is the new site's name? Also what is the most popular campsite?
Keith, please check your email for the information you requested. Thank you for using TravelOK.com!
Can you please give me a link for hunting info for lake thunderbird or at least an answer?
Richard, the only full hookups at Lake Thunderbird State Park are in the Hickory Hill and Little Sandy campgrounds. If you are still interested in the Turkey Pass area, there are a handful of pull-through areas for larger RVs. The rates for electric/water hookups only are $20/night and for electric/water/sewer are $23/night. Best wishes and thank you for using TravelOK.com!
We have been to the Hickory Hill camping area and would like information about the south side of the Lake Thunderbird. Our interest is RV camping, is are there any full hookup sites in the Turkey Pass area? If so are the rates the same as for the Hickory Hill and are there size limits for the RV length?
Can I please get a link with the hunting information for t-bird?
TY Julie for your pleasant response. The signs may have been there buit our point was that it was imporperly posted. Little Signs? And selling firewood to tourists just to make money? Not presenting a printed handout to everyone that pays to stay? That's a legitimate argument in any state. I lived in Oklahoma for several years, from OKC to Lawton and was never so happy to leave when I did. I am glad that you like your state and thought too that there might have been some things I may have overlooked. I've traveled the world 2 1/2 times and am very comfortable never visiting Taiwan, China, Vietnam or Oklahoma again. Simply my opinion. Again, I am glad to know that you are happy with your state. You're the very first person I've known of that intentionally lives there and likes it. Best Wishes to you sincerely. Cliff
Sven, while kayaks can certainly be launched nearly anywhere on Lake Thunderbird, you may want to look into launching from one of the marinas where there are no-wake zones. For more information, please contact the state park directly at 405-360-3572 and they will be more than happy to assist you. Best wishes and thank you for using TravelOK.com!
Can anyone suggest the best launching spot for kayaks on Lake Thunderbird? Thanks!
Cliff, I am not sure of when your visit was to the park, but I am aware that the park does have signs posted about the burn ban. Of course a store is going to sell you firewood so that they can make some money on it. I am sorry this was your last visit to Oklahoma due to all this state does have to offer. I live so close to Lake Thunderbird that I visit it often. The burn ban was actually just lifted this week. I plan to go to Lake Thunderbird State Park and throw my daughter a Sweet 16 birthday party today. I really wish your experience could have been better. I do know for a while now there has been little red signs attached to the big brown signs all over the parks entrances. I do see where these signs could have been missed if one was not familiar with a little red sign on all of the big brown signs in the parks. I hope you do reconsider and visit our state again and other fine parks in our state.
PERHAPS, Did you say? Perhaps? I have the highest regard for rules and laws and I am truly sorry that you live in an area that has been so threatened, that it's regard for visitors, law abiding visitors, is blatantly non existant! You say there were signs? PERHAPS? Our weekend was thoroughly researched for a week via websites and phone calls and not once was there any evidence of a burn ban. We brought our own wood, bought wood at the Shell store just outside the front gate and when we checked in, there was NO mention from anyone about a burn ban. the state of oklahoma and its hospitality skills suffers immensely. if we had intentionally had disregard for the law and intentionally broke the law then I wouldnt be saying one thing. However that was NOT the case here and for you to speculate on a situation that you have no first hand knowledge of it another great example of exactly what I'm talking about concerning the care and hospitality of its visitors. Make NO mistake, this is one visitor that has seen the last of the state of Oklahoma!
Thank you for your comments during your recent visit to Lake Thunderbird State Park. It is through comments such as yours that we are able to determine if we are meeting our visitors expectations. Please know that we review every comment and discuss them with the appropriate park personnel
Seems there is alot of negative comments about the rangers. Perhaps the visitors to the parks should pay attention to the signs that clearly say there is a burn ban not to mention the numerous signs over the highways all over the state. I was at the park over the holiday weekend and saw these signs posted all over the park. Perhaps people should take responsibility for their actions and obey the law. Many people across oklahoma and other states are in a severe drought and have lost their homes, bussinesses and possessions to these fires. Some people have also lost their lives. These burn bans should not be taken lightly. I dont know why the ranger asked you for your license but is that such a horrible thing he did. I wonder if we asked the ranger what happened if it would match what you are saying. It seems to have angered you that he asked for your I.D. I wonder who had the attitude first. Just something to think about. And the other person complaining about the rangers I think you said it all when you said you were drinking some cold drinks. Perhaps you had one to many. If anyone is dangerous it is you with your disregard for the burn ban putting peoples lives and property at risk. Again something to think about. I wonder if we asked the rangers who had to deal with these people how they were treated I wonder if they would have said that you were rude and not polite as well. Anyone else notice both of these comments are people from the great state of texas. GO SOONERS
We had a most unusual and disconcerting experience in this lovely campground today. The ranger with whom we had an encounter was not polite nor friendly. He used intimidating tactics. Is this how you want your Oklahoma state parks to be represented? We had nothing to hide and did nothing wrong, but were mistaken for some other couple. This couple, was camping almost across from us, and they started a fire. I guess, they realized no one else had one, and since we were out eating at the picnic table, they asked if there was a fire ban, and when we said 'yes', they went and extinguished their fire. The park ranger arrived 3 hours later, when my husband and I were on a walk, and why hunt for people who have already extiguished their fire, why not look for active ones, and warn people. You should also have obvious signs that clearly state there is a fire ban, and perhaps other rules that are important, or at least a handout. The fire ban sign is not very visible. As a matter of fact, my husband, who was the one who drove into the campground did not see it. We walk with flashlights when it is dark, and make sure that we are seen. This one ranger came towards us with his car, and had his bright lights shining in our eyes, blinding us, and just asked me for my driver's license. I have NEVER been asked for my driver's license by a policeman or ranger, or anyone in law enforcement, in my whole entire life, other than a traffic violation. I have traveled all over the world, and am in my 60's. This encounter was shameful! No introduction, no conversation, just 'let me see your license'. Out of the clear blue in a campground, when we are peacefully walking and minding our business. I never heard of anything like this. We are from Texas, and maybe Oklahoma parks are not safe, but it was very aggressive behavior. We then realized what was going on, and told whatever authority that was, because in the dark who knows who is asking you for your license, when they do not show you an ID, to come see our site, which he did. He kept up his intimidation and kept shining his bright flashlight into my eyes on the way. I had eye surgery and am very sensitive to bright light shining into my eyes, and it is painful. He was so rude. After he saw our site and realized he was wrong, he never apologized. Actually, he was still trying to be feisty. It's as if he was looking for a confrontation. We found this to be extremely unusual and inappropriate behavior in a campground. Therefore, I googled it, and there are several negative reports about your ranger behavior. My suggestion to your below comment is to have rangers patrol your parks for safety, and not harrasment of people.
Sue, guests are welcome to bring their own horses and use the equestrian trails at Thunderbird Riding Stables. The fee is $10 per day per horse. For more information, please contact them at 405-321-5768 or click on 'Thunderbird Riding Stables' under 'See Related Listings' on the right side of the page. Best wishes and thank you for using TravelOK.com!
Do you have horseback riding for those who bring their own horses? We are trying to find someplace to ride. thanks
Jeff, we agree! The Oklahoma Tourism & Recreation Department is currently working with other state agencies and their contractors to put a reservation system in place for Oklahoma State Parks, and we're looking forward to an early 2013 release date. Until then the 200 campsites at Lake Thunderbird State Park are available on a first come, first serve basis. Best wishes and thank you for using TravelOK.com!
When is Oklahoma going to get a web-based reservation system for RV sites? They have one for cabins and lodges already. Seems quite simple to include RV sites. As it currently stands, most people are hesitant to load up their RV just in hopes that they can get a site under the first come-first served policy! I believe a reservation system would ultimately help the OK park system because more people would make the trip if they know they have a guaranteed site.
Jonathan Vishanoff: Thank you for the heads up! Our LTSP staff will make sure that the Cleveland County Game Wardens are aware. Mountain Lions are one of Oklahomas most elusive predators and have a wide range that they travel, but most individuals will almost always avoid human contact. However, like all animals in our park, visitors should observe the wildlife and avoid interaction with them. Don't you wish you had a camera?
Ginger: Thank you for visiting Lake Thunderbird! It is great to hear that you had a good experiance at the Little Axe campground. If you would ever like more information about other exciting activities and areas around Lake Thunderbird, please stop by our park office on the north side of the lake and check out our new visitors area and gift shop.
Treina, Senior Pass Cards and Golden Age Passports are not accepted at Oklahoma State Parks. These are intended for use at the Federal Corps of Engineers campgrounds, the National Park Service and U.S. Forest Services properties. For more information about the campsites, please contact the park directly at 405-360-3572. Happy camping and thank you for using TravelOK.com!
Does the campsites at the lake accept the Senior Pass card
Kay Kay - Due to the current burn ban, grilling is not allowed in the park at this time. Thank you for visiting TravelOK.com!
Wanting to camp this coming weekend...can we grill????
Just to let you guys know, I spotted a mountain lion on Lake Thunderbird property at 7 55 AM on Saturday, August 11, 2012. I thought this should be reported and the state might be interested.
We just camped at the little axe camp ground and had a blast!! We can't wait to go back! The rv sites were great. The host was very nice. It was just what my family needed!
Jessie, pets are allowed at the park as long as they are on a leash, and there is no extra fee for bringing along a pet. Happy camping and thank you for visiting TravelOK.com!
What is the pet policy at the tent campgrounds?
Ashley: LTSP offers multiple areas around the lake for overnight tent camping. For your first overnight stay at Lake Thunderbird, check out the South Dam camping area! South Dam offers individualized tent pads, a playgroup for children, boat ramp, excellent Camphost, and close proximity to a bike trailhead. If you would like further information, please contact 405-360-3572 or visit the LTSP Office / Visitors Center.
Hope Reid: LTSP has 30 amp and 50 amp hook-ups; as well as, sewer drops in select campgrounds. We would love to have you visit again! Stop by the Park Office (on the North side of the lake off of Alameda Dr.) and we would be more than happy to converse about time’s changes and the NEW additions to LTSP since the last time you visited.
M: All the comments LTSP receives on TravelOK.com are respected. LTSP is concerned with the dissatisfaction of your stay. If you would like to discuss your displeasure further, please contact the Park Office at 405-360-3572. We would like to help make your next stay more enjoyable!
Popeye: Thank you for the positive feedback! We hope your morning walks continue to be an enjoyable outdoor experience!
Ashley, there are several very nice camping areas at Lake Thunderbird State Park. We suggest you call or email the park, let them know what criteria you have for camping, like water view or park view, and they'll be the best ones to suggest the perfect spot for you. Their contact information is above as is the link for the state park map. Take a look at that and it will help you envision and plan for your camping spot in advance. Happy camping and thank you for visiting TravelOK.com.
Which camp site is the best for tent camping? We have been out to Thunderbird for day trips but never camping. We would like to camp this weekend. Thanks for any suggestions!
I was there many years ago for the day. I don't think it had hook-ups yet at the time. Now that I know there are hookups for travel trailers, I would LOVE to go back!
The camp host were real quick to collect our fees, actually we hadnt even finished parking yet. That would be fine if they would enforce some kind of quiet hours. Obnoxious kids yelling into the early mornings and of course no one around to keep the peace. Makes me regret paying the $40 to camp for two nights.
Must visit. Walk Clear Bay most morns. Beautiful, turkey, deer, birds, great bike/hiking trails, etc. Well kept.
babylove: All areas within the Little Sandy campground are available for you to visit and camp. Day use at the Little Sandy swim beach ends at 5pm. Tent camping is allowed within the area provided the party / visitor are camping over night at a designated tent spot. Hope this helps clear things up. Next time you come to camp in your favorite area at Lake Thunderbird, stop by the park office and check out the new logo merchandise available. Thank you for making LTSP one of your favorite destinations for outdoor recreation.
if there there is no camping at little sandy we will not be back i have been camping there will my family for over 30 yrs that was one of the only quite family tent camping sites on the lake my kids will miss it but we will start a new family camping tradition at another lake!!!!!!!!
Angie, there is not currently a reservation system and camping is first come, first served. The campgrounds are open and ready for your visit! Have a great time at Lake Thunderbird State Park and thank you for using TravelOK.com.
Is there a reservation system? Also, I think we wanted to stay a few years ago but couldn't due to a tornado. Is campground up and going?
wow: Lake Thunderbird State Park is an exciting place to visit! Fishing, hiking, bike trails, horseback riding, and many more recreational activities are available at our park. We hope you find the time to develop your own opinions about Lake Thunderbird, and hopefully have a fun filled outing that will leave you wanting to visit again. Stop by the park office during 8 - 430 and our staff will be glad to make suggestions and answer questions! See you soon?
Happy Camper: The Little Axe camp ground on the east side of Lake Thunderbird is open for camping! RV sites are $25 / night and tent sites are $17 / night. Thank you for visiting Lake Thunderbird!
im moving to the area....from these comments, im quite disappointed. i was looking forward to the lake...now not so sure...... it amazes me, the people that cant spell!
Happy Camper, we would suggest that you call or email the park using the contact information above to verify that Little Axe will be open for camping, as we have not heard otherwise. Have a fun and safe holiday and thank you for using TravelOK.com.
I am wondering if Little Axe State Park is going to be open this year?
The Earth Day Festival at Reeves Park in Norman was a BLAST! Thank you to our 2 volunteers who withstood the morning cold... rain... and then the scorching sun (a typical OK day) to help facilitate and assist how a water molecule is both dynamic and static within the water cycle. All our 500+ participants found the activity educational, as well as, exciting as they took an "Incredible Journey" through the Project Wet experience... Not to mention the awesome bracelet they got to build along the way.
Lake Thunderbird's annual "Egg Dash" was definitely exciting! Participants met at Crow's Corral located just off Hwy 9 in the Clear Bay Area; where they got to meet Oklahoma State Parks very own raccoon mascot, Park Pal, and make a mad dash for egg filled goodies and prizes. The event is held annually by the support of donors, park staff, and cherished volunteers. Hope all who attended had a fantastic time. Mark the event on your calendar for next year.
Thank you!... to Boy Scout Troop 79 from Edmond, OK, for their conservation efforts on 01APR12. Troop 79 volunteered over 50 hours of stewardship to help start the revitalization efforts at Lake Thunderbird's permanent orienteering course. Troop 79 started the day off with an educational lesson covering; the potential risks (of flora & fauna) involved with off trail hiking, basic orienteering, and the compensations of conservation practices. Troop 79 was able to locate 15 control markers, in which they inspected for damages, removed invasive species (the Eastern Red Juniper) from the perimeter of the marker, and helped pick up over 150 pounds of litter along the way. Troop 79 sets the example for True Park Pals!
Spring cleaning at Thunderbird!
A big Thank You to Cub Scout Pack 291 from Moore, OK for their conservation efforts today! The eager and enthusiastic Cub Scouts picked up over 250 pounds of trash along the shoreline of Lake Thunderbird between the Turkey Pass fishing pier and the Turkey Pass boat ramp. Afterwards, they visited the Discovery Cove Nature Center and went on a scavenger hunt. Wow! What an enjoyable and productive day.
This lake is looking good in my books people
ok just found out they are closing little sandy tent area permently and will be no tent camping next year. this i bull me and my family been camping there forever and now someone makes a poor desicion ok everyone who camps there its now time to fllood this site and call downtown. o wait i think that discrimanation aint it no rv u cant stay here. maybe we should ban together and picket the tourism department and let them know we who cant afford rvs but have tents make that park i meen i nevr had a better time out there this year the camphost cleaned it up alot feals more family camping area trust me this is just the begining i will tell everyone i will ever mail and call all news channelsso come on fellow tenters lets show them we matter
Lake Tunderbird has been around for over 45 years it was opened to the public in 1965. the name came from a name the lake contest and was named ater the 45th. that was in Norman. My mother was the winner of the contest and won a boat and motor. It was a proud day in her as well as all of our family.
I do not have to give my name or email address for the office will already know who I am. I and my husband were volunteer camp host for LTSP only to be told we done an excellent job but were no longer needed for the rest of the season because we have a paying job that has to come first.I really loved the job I was doing as a volunteer however the way the situation was handled was not right. Weekend collecting was just fine with the office when they had no one else now that I found the park more help it seems not to be enough. Gee how minds change we just wish someone with authority would have been the one to tell us and not leave it to a ranger with no authority. It really has burnt us on volunteering to help any one. Much less bring our rv back to this lake and support it by camping here in the future. IT IS SAD!!!
Hadn’t been to Thunderbird Lake in a while, my kids have grown. We took grandkids and a few friends. I'm not sure it's a positive influence when you have Highway patrol writing as many tickets as we witness. Many of us are willing to follow the rules but it appears that the rules changed. What happen to warnings? Warnings would help with education as well as it would be passed along to be careful instead of you don’t want to go there. Maybe a different approach such as a maybe a ticket that can be dismissed if the proper classes are taken. Who has heard of these classes? Especially when hardly anyone knows of these rules or classes, if you happen to be from the older generation forget it. It would be nice if information were in places where everyone sees when entering the park. But I guess it’s needed to write as many tickets to pay for ummm whatever it is. It’s understandable to want people to be safe but to push and write tickets for everything. Do you have this Do you have that Do you. Do you? You can’t do this you can’t do that. We appreciate the work that the Highway Patrol does, we understand safety. We understand we should be keeping up with changes. But sometimes they could work with us those who want to abide by the rules instead of being so distant and determine to give out as many tickets as they can. Doesn’t help their image nor help us to want to go back. I can tell you that you best research the rules maybe go to a different lake. I know we will. You might miss something about the rules if you do be sure you’ll have an expensive day at the Thunderbird Lake. Needless to say after that experience we left. Found another place to enjoy a little fun in the sun with grandbabies. Must be the heat under those hats.
365 and 24 hours is for camping also little sandy is not open all year 7-11 is there hours for visitors also. day use ends in most areas. at 5 pm. also hog creek has no days use at all. the only days use areas are east and west sentniel and only from 7am to 11 pm. but yes if your camping some areas are open all year but park hours for visitor ends at 11 pm. if u really want to know go to the office and check like i did.
I just read it says the hours of operation is 365 24hours a day we were out there on Saturday july 16 2011 at Little Sandy and were told all day users had to leave the area by 5 pm daily from the camp hostess and there was at least 5 to7 different groups that the hostess told this too n ran off now how can he do that when hour your says different
yeah, there is a temp fence that was put up after the tornado at my favorite fishing spot at indian point and alameda right across from the marina.WHEN ARE YOU GOING TO TAKE THIS FENCE DOWN???????????????//
nice job guys i was out at the lake all weekend and police were everywhere. ty me and my kids fealt safe and secure nice to know you guys were there this was the nicest 4th of july weekend i ever recall nice job guys keep it up. only bad thing was no fires. i stayed in little sandy and my kudos to the man and woman who collected our money very nice and very profesional good job guys and keep it up the best time we ever had at thunderbird
I'm going to agree with proud. I grew up around thunderbird and it's a nice park. I love the young rangers. I recently had an incident out there with drunk campers and they showed up they were very professional and handled the problem. There are shady characters that do live around the lake and if it wasn't for them arresting people and writing tickets then the park would be out of control. So thank you guys. Seems sick in ok might be bitter probably because he got arrested or a ticket. Not to mention don't hate on our park if half your words are misspelled
e Thunderbird, situated in central Oklahoma, is an incredibly popular tourist destination that hosts tens of thousands of visitors each year. Lake Thunderbird is the largest body of water within a 100-mile radius, which is likely part of the reason it is so popular among water-seekers. The lake has approximately 6,000 acres of open water, all of which are available for extensive visitor use. The state of Oklahoma has established Lake Thunderbird State Park on the shores of the lake, which is framed by rolling, oak-covered hills and sandy shores with some 86 miles of shoreline. Fishing is excellent on Lake Thunderbird with largemouth bass, catfish and walleye being the most sought after species by anglers. A nearby large public hunting area offers seasonal opportunities to hunt such game as duck, goose, rabbit, deer, squirrel and quail. Other activities at and around Lake Thunderbird include fishing, hunting, boating, sailing, sailboarding, picnic areas, jogging, walking, bicycling and many others. For overnight accommodations and additional recreational activities, see Lake Thunderbird State Park
well no matter what anyone says i been coming to this lake since i was a kid its nice convenant people who work there are great very very nice best i have seen park in years.i allways see plenty of rangers in this park so mr ok you are wrong this is a safe place i bring all of my kids here and will also the camphost are great there allways friendly very helpfull i know i sure miss fishermans point lots of fond memorys so i vgive it five fingers up kudos the best thing i seen yet was they got rid of that nsty rv and storage shed fishing aint been to great but i think its the heat so i tell all thunderbird is great lake and i am sure others think same so shut up mr ok. dont hate our lake..…............................
Lake Thunderbird is a popular reservoir famous for boating, fishing and hiking. The Lake has two marinas and a boathouse. Fish species in this lake include large-mouth bass, sunfish, catfish, and saugeye. Its size is 8.7 sq mi. Find dining and lodging options near Lake Thunderbird.
yea there are host and no they only have three full time rangers so trust me if u think u are safe out there u r fooled only help u got even close is the host but half the time there are only two rangers on duty so yea go ahead u r so safe the sad thing is one of the rangers is temp sgt,and cares nothing about this lake he would rather write tickets and take people to jail and leavin no ranger in area to secure the lake or camphost and guest safety and a park manager who is to concerned with browning his nose with these two young rangers and not fullfilling his job duties be prepare people this lake is going south and the upper managment dont care trust me i speak the truth. i watched a female host almost get assulted and was screaming for help on her radio and guess what no one answered her to my shock and no one ever showed up. because they had no rangers on northside. these two kids were crusing in same car on south side so if ur camphost are not to friendly. i can c y they only have two rangers who give a crap and think of safety more than whos going to jail if u want ur stuff stolen and take ur safety in ur own hands dont belive me come ask any camphost
When is the last time anyone checked next to boat deck.. 6/11 There is more beer cans than people and dogs not many on leashes.oh where are the host and rangers? Host is collecting $ and rangers are there any?
Camp host @ Turkey Pass 3/2011. We were made to feel very uncomfortable on a recent camping trip. It was a girls camping trip and we were watched and followed. I hope the camp host are checked out.
For those of you that would like maps or information regarding hunting at lake thunderbird you can check out lakethunderbirdhuntingguide.blogspot.com
We had a family reunion at Zoom Beach and no sooner did we get there we were attacked by surger bees...they look like small wasps. There were thousands of them...they got in our food on the serving line and on our plate. I think that if the dumpster would have been more away from the pavilion it would have been better but mostly the area should be inspected and maintained to insure that an event would be enjoyable for the park guests. Never again will we be back to Zoom Beach.
Wow.. I have been hearing that the old South Sentinel area is completely underwater because of beach erosion. So sad since that was a hugely popular area. if there was any way that I could help to get South Sentinel back on it's feet again I would. Peace..
I would like a map of Lake Thunderbird showing how to get to differnt places on the lake. Thank you
If anyone else would like to volunteer at Lake Thunderbird State Park, please contact the park directly at (405) 360-3572 or email thunderbird@otrd.state.ok.us for more information about how you can help this popular state park get back on its feet again.
Would like to volunteer in 06/2010.
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Biking, Camping, Canoeing Kayaking And Rafting, Equestrian And Horseback Riding, Fishing, Great Value Getaways, Hiking, Hunting, Lakes And Boating, Norman, Outdoor Recreation Areas, Pet Friendly Destinations, RV Camping, State Parks, Watchable Wildlife
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