Oklahoma Camping Guide

The Blue River provides the most exciting white water run in the whole Oklahoma state. It is a large flat water stream that drains a large portion of central Oklahoma. Just near Tishomingo and Wapanucka lies a 9.5 mile white-water Mecca that is loaded with waterfalls and ledge drops where the river flows off a granite base. It truly gives Blue River camping near Tishomingo the reputation of being a wet, wild experience for anyone.

The Blue River takes in the waters of Little Blue Creek just southeast of Connerville. It flows generally south into the Blue River Wildlife Management Area, a state-managed preserve with camping, hiking and river access. Although, most of the river is considered off-limits since advanced permission from land owners must be secured. Although, you will need strong intermediate or higher level white-water paddling skills to tackle the swells of the river. And because of its remote surrounding area both swift water rescue and First Aid skills would be valuable assets for those who plan to camp out and river paddle. So, if you are beginner, do not worry as there are ways to help you out in case of mishaps.

The Blue River has excellent trout fishing and is known statewide for holding lunker trout. Here is a map of the Blue River and it’s different regulation areas.

Unfortunately, if you want to experience the thrilling and exciting white water ride, you have to come to the Blue River before, during or after it rises following a major rainfall event in order to get just the right amount of water fit for paddling. If in any event you entirely miss out on that exciting ride, you can just opt to take a bit of trout fishing as it is stocked between November and May. This is a convenience for non-adventure seekers and is just interested in getting some good fish. Fly fishing is a good idea around Blue River.

The water quality of the Blue River is good but is not potable without any form of purification. Natural mineral and agricultural run-offs are hazardous to the health once the water is induced and the person does not immediately get medical check-up. Still, the water is generally free of industrial, commercial and residential pollutants due to the remoteness of the surrounding area which borders the Tishomingo National Wildlife Refuge and runs through the Blue River Wildlife Management Area.

There are no commercial camp grounds in Blue River but the Wildlife Management Area permits camping all year round in designated campsites and river access areas. Conventional accommodations can be found in nearly Durant and Tishomingo. Since there are no known outfitter, livery or shuttle services available on or near when you are Blue River camping near Tishomingo, so it is safe, secured and recommended that you take your own boats and gears. You can go hunting outside the Blue River WMA in a hunting area nearby, so if you are a hunter, bring your hunting equipment if it’s hunting season. Truly, it provides great adventure.

For more information on camping, fishing, lodging, the latest trout fishing reports and hunting the Blue River, give Scotty’s One Stop a call at (580) 371-9288