Nestled within the rugged landscapes of the Sans Bois mountains, where untamed woods, towering bluffs, and bubbling springs abound, lies a treasured spot steeped in history and natural beauty. This is Robbers Cave State Park, a site that, as legend has it, might have been ironically named by French trappers or derived from an unwooded creek. Over the centuries, the mystique of these 'wood-free' mountains has attracted ancient tribes, trappers, and outlaws. Here, the time has carved sandstone cliffs and stately pines, transforming this former sacred hunting ground, mining camp, and hideout into a dedicated preserve that mirrors the richness of the region's past and celebrates its present allure.
The surrounding mountains gained particular prominence post-Civil War, becoming the hideout of choice for notorious outlaws such as the Youngers, Daltons, Rufus Buck Gang, Jesse James, and Belle Starr. The area's natural amenities offered these legendary characters refuge from the relentless pursuit of frontier justice.
As the years rolled on, Robbers Cave State Park transformed into a multifaceted recreation hub. Today, it boasts a lodge, an ATV area, and an equestrian campground - a veritable haven for horse lovers. Unique accommodation options, including yurts and a charmingly retrofitted covered wagon, have also sprung up, providing an immersive and rustic experience.
For those yearning for tranquility, the Eagle’s Nest offers a serene retreat, while families might find the campground next to the water below the dam an ideal spot for bonding and outdoor fun. The CCC-designed Old Circle campground, meanwhile, delights with its wooded serenity and thoughtful design.
One of the park's defining features is its homage to "Parkitecture", the National Park Service's rustic design aesthetic that influenced pre-war park design. This architectural philosophy emphasizes the harmony of man-made structures with their natural surroundings. As you traverse the park, look out for the hand-cut metal signs that pepper the trails and the rustic cabins. Staying in one of these cabins provides a firsthand look at the vernacular architecture, where native stone, live edge cedar siding, and careful placement harmonize with the landscape.
From its shimmering lakes and rolling hills to the expansive woods and winding trails, Robbers Cave State Park offers an abundance of outdoor pleasures. It is not just a campsite but a vivid canvas where nature, history, and adventure interweave. As an equestrian destination, it promises memorable adventures and stunning scenery, truly a haven where horse enthusiasts and their noble steeds can wander, explore, and rest in the lap of nature. It is a place where families and adventurers alike can delve into a treasure trove of delight in the heart of Oklahoma.
Robbers Cave State Park offers the following facilities and amenities:
- ADA Compliant
- ADA Rooms
- Amphitheater
- Camp Store
- Rv sites
- Tent sites
- Primitive sites
- Secluded trails
- Horse trailers
- Horse corrals
- Holding pens
- Dump Station
- Elec. 30 Amp & 50 Amp
- Full Hookups
- Wifi
- Grills
- Handicapped Parking
- Outdoor Grills
- Pets Allowed
- Picnic Area
- Playground
- Pull Thru Sites
- Restrooms
- Showers
- Water
Room Amenities
- Balcony/Deck
- Cable/Satellite TV
- Climate Control
- Coffee Maker
- Desk
- In-room Fireplace
- Kitchen Facilities
- Microwave
- Refrigerator
The park features 26 rustic cabins. Robbers Cave Lodge offers 21 guest rooms, a conference room, WiFi, a comfortable lobby, and a patio with an impressive view of Coon Creek Lake Valley. It also offers 22 RV sites with water, sewer, and electric-full hookups (modern) and 92 (semi-modern) sites with water and electric hookups. 86 primitive tent campsites are along secluded trails. The Equestrian Campground has space for horse trailers, corrals, and holding pens near the campsites.
Cost Details:
- Book online or call for details
Notes:
- Reservations can be made in person at the park office, online, or by phone at (918) 465-2565.
- Call or email for ADA-accessible rooms or to book five or more accommodations.
- Pets are welcome in our pet-friendly cabins only. There is a $20.00 per pet per day nonrefundable fee.
- No pets are allowed in the lodge.
- One parking pass to this state park is included in your completed reservation for a lodge room or cabin. Upon confirmation of your reservation, you will receive an e-mail with details for your parking pass from our contracted vendor, Premium Parking.
If you want to discover and explore other campsites and horse trails, here are some of them that you may visit:
Robbers Cave State Park does require reservations for overnight accommodations. Please visit their page here on Top Horse Trails - Robbers Cave State Park for more information.