Cookson Bend Public Use Area

Cookson, Oklahoma

About

Cookson Bend Public Use Area is a popular campground situated on Tenkiller Ferry Lake, Oklahoma's renowned clear water paradise, nestled among the scenic Cookson Hills of the Ozark Mountains. The area is characterized by breathtaking views of 200-foot limestone bluffs rising from the lake's pristine waters. Located in northeastern Oklahoma's Green Country region, the campground is surrounded by dense Oak-Hickory forests, rolling hills, and abundant wildlife including deer, turkey, and migratory birds such as bald eagles and white pelicans. The 12,500-acre lake, fed by the Illinois River and Baron Fork—both designated Oklahoma Scenic Rivers—offers 130 miles of shoreline and excellent recreational opportunities. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing for bass and catfish, water skiing, swimming, hiking, and scuba diving in the clear waters. The park provides modern facilities including electric and non-electric campsites, waterborne restrooms with hot showers, a swim beach, boat ramps, and an adjacent marina with concessions.

Amenities

Available Site Types

• Electric Sites
• Non-Electric Sites
• Tent Sites
• Group Sites

Local Attractions

• Tenkiller State Park
• Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge
• Tahlequah
• Illinois River
• Trout stream below the dam