Tucked within the shale and sandstone cliff sides of southeastern Oklahoma lies a natural playground, scenic getaway, and historic hiding spot for outlaws of old all in one. Robbers Cave State Park is a centuries-old hunting ground with natural beauty that has served as a hideout for legends of American history.
In the modern era, it’s a haven for climbers, repellers, horseback riders, and nature lovers everywhere. And there’s no better way to explore it than with a Robbers Cave State Park RV rental! Read on for all you need to know about this infamous park.
Robbers Cave State Park Facts
Learning a bit of history about this interesting destination will give you a deeper appreciation for the park. Let’s dive right in with these Robber Cave State Park facts.
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Robbers Cave State Park is situated in Latimer County, the place where it got its former name.
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The park is a scenic woodland in southeast Oklahoma. The park is a big draw for rappellers and hikers for its hilly and mountainous terrain.
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Of the park’s 8,000 plus acres, 189 of those are lakes making it a great choice for anglers too.
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Archeologists found that the park has been a hunting ground for centuries. The area was settled as far back as the 1600s by the Osage and Caddo Native American tribes.
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You’ll also find 3,800 acres of hunting grounds amid a forest backdrop for some adventurous sports honoring that tradition.
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The park was infamously the hideout of outlaws over the years, including Jesse James, Belle Starr, and the Dalton Gang.
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Difficult terrain, somewhat hidden location, and a secret back exit made this a kind of stronghold for those running from the law.
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By 1935, the National Parks Service took control of the area and made it into the park we enjoy today.
Book a trip to Robbers Cave State Park now and see these fun historical facts in action!
Where Is Robbers Cave State Park?
Robbers Cave State Park is located in the southeastern part of the state of Oklahoma, United States. The park is situated in the scenic woodlands of the San Bois Mountains in Latimer County, near the town of Wilburton. Robbers Cave State Park is known for its rugged terrain, caves, hiking trails, and outdoor recreational activities. It's a popular destination for camping, rock climbing, and exploring the caves that are said to have once been a hideout for outlaws like Jesse James.
From Interstate 40 (I-40):
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Depending on your starting location, get onto I-40 in Oklahoma.
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Travel east on I-40 until you reach the town of Henryetta, Oklahoma.
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Take Exit 237 onto US-75 South.
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Follow US-75 South for about 25 miles until you reach the town of Wilburton.
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In Wilburton, follow signs to Robbers Cave State Park. The park is located just a few miles north of Wilburton. You'll likely need to take a local road, such as OK-2 or OK-270, to reach the park entrance.
From Interstate 44 (I-44):
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Depending on your starting location, get onto I-44 in Oklahoma.
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Travel east on I-44 until you reach the town of McAlester, Oklahoma.
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Take Exit 69 on US-69 South.
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Follow US-69 South for about 20 miles until you reach the town of Wilburton.
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In Wilburton, follow signs to Robbers Cave State Park. The park is located just a few miles north of Wilburton. You'll likely need to take a local road, such as OK-2 or OK-270, to reach the park entrance.
Best Robbers Cave State Park RV Parks and Campgrounds
Let’s get your home base picked for the journey ahead. We curated this list of the five best Robbers Cave State Park RV parks to find the perfect spot.
Robbers Cave State Park Campground
Amenities: The state park’s campground offers RV sites with full hookups and plenty of things to do. Visit the amphitheater, swim at the beach or pool, take a hot shower, or eat lunch at the picnic tables. Other amenities include a mini-golf course, a small grocery store, paddle board rentals, boat ramps, a nature center, and more! Families are sure to enjoy this fun-filled campground.
Capacity: 114 RV sites
More Information: Robbers Cave State Park Campground
Whispering Pines Campground
Amenities: These RV sites in Robbers Cave State Park are the most convenient option for access to the cave itself. Whispering Pines Campground puts you near the information center for a safe feeling right in the heart of the park. The campground is small, but you’ll have access to full hookups and most sites. Other amenities include potable water, picnic tables, showers, and access to biking/hiking trails nearby.
Capacity: 14 sites
More Information: Whispering Pines Campground
Horseshoe Bend Campground
Amenities: Horseshoe Bend is a primitive RV campground in Robbers Cave State Park. This spot will put you in the heart of the park like Whispering Pines. You’ll have a more spartan feeling with no hookups and only potable water spouts located nearby. Depending on your camping style, this could be a great way to connect with nature.
Capacity: 17 sites
More information: Horseshoe Bend Campground
Lake Wayne Wallace Campground
Amenities: These are the closest RV sites in Robbers Cave State Park to the lake. This is another primitive-style site without hookups. You’ll have to head back to the information center for showers, bathrooms, and potable water. But, you’ll also be able to enjoy waking up to the calming view of Lake Wayne Wallace every morning.
Capacity: 14 sites
More information: Lake Wayne Wallace Campground
Old Circle Campground
Amenities: Old Circle Campground hosts popular RV sites in Robbers Cave State Park thanks to its private feeling and convenient location. Whatever site you end up in here, you’ll be surrounded by a dense treeline for plenty of personal space. Most of the sites have full hookups, but some are lacking sewer. Ask ahead when you call!
Capacity: 23 sites
More information: Old Circle Campground
Equestrian Campground
Amenities: This RV campground in Robbers Cave State Park is a favorite for equestrians. Saddle up at the nearby stables to ride the trails to your heart’s content. Most of the sites here have full hookups, but a few offer just water and electricity. Reservations can be made in advance online, so choose your site carefully!
Capacity: 45 sites
More information: Equestrian Campground
Best Time To Visit Robbers Cave State Park
This Oklahoma park can offer four unique experiences depending on the season. This guide will set you up for the best time to visit Robbers Cave State Park.
Winter
Sometimes a visit during the low season can bring a lot of perks with it. Oklahoma winters are fairly mild in the sunshine. Temperatures hover around 55 degrees Fahrenheit on average. Starting around December, the park takes on a monochromatic hue after a fresh snowfall, and attractions like the Robbers Cave gain a mysterious quality. You’ll also have the place all to yourself. So don’t write off winter RV camping in Robbers Cave State Park!
Spring
RV camping in Robber Cave State Park can be a nice choice in spring. Wildflowers begin to bloom around the park, and the weather is pleasant 60 to 80 degrees all day and night. You’ll see slightly more rain than average at around eight days per month. If you don’t mind a shower here or there, you can’t go wrong in this season.
Summer
Summer is the high season for RV camping in Robbers Cave State Park, especially for families. So it’s no surprise you’ll find the densest crowd sizes around June and July. You’ll find temperatures climbing to around 87 to 94 degrees in the daytime. Oklahoma’s humidity should be tolerable. Summer is the best time to enjoy Robbers Cave’s swimming spots to cool down from the heat.
Fall
Fall is an ideal time for RV camping in Robbers Cave State Park. Depending on the month you visit, you can emulate another season’s experience without the high crowds. September is a great choice for warmth if you’re looking forward to some water activities, while October and November offer spring-like temperatures with the bonus of beautiful fall foliage.
Things To Do in Robbers Cave State Park
Now then, on to the fun! It’s a big park with lots to discover. Get started right with this list of things to do in Robbers Cave State Park!​
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Hideout in Robbers Cave. This is the legendary natural spot turned stronghold for outlaws after the civil war ended. Find this hidden cave among high formations of sandstone cliffs. Step inside and imagine laying low for a while, as some notorious characters of the past once did.
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Ride horseback through the park. Traverse the park like a real outlaw would have on horseback! The Robbers Cave Stables offer guided trail tours and instruction for total beginners. This is a great, family-friendly way to explore.
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Try climbing or rappelling. If you’re looking for something more adventurous, the park’s tightly packed sandstone and shale make an amazing spot for climbing and rappelling. If you’ve never tried it before, go ahead and visit Climb Tulsa. Here, you can learn all you need to know and rent everything you’ll need for an exciting time outdoors.
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Hike the trails. There are miles of trails just waiting to be conquered at Robbers Cave State Park. There’s a network of nearly ten trails with a nice variety in difficulty and terrain. For something more challenging, try the Mountain Trail to Lake Carlton or the Belle Starr Loop. Or, head to the Coon Ridge Trail for something more easygoing.
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Go hunting. If sporting’s your thing, you’ll find nearly 4,000 acres of sanctioned hunting grounds in the park. Try your hand at landing a wild white-tailed deer or eastern wild turkey. You’ll need a hunting license for hunting all game in the park.
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Explore the nature center. Visit the park's Nature Center to learn more about the local flora and fauna, geology, and the history of the area. It's a great educational stop, especially for families and nature enthusiasts.
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Picnic and relax. Robbers Cave State Park offers several picnic areas and pavilions. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy a relaxing meal surrounded by the park's natural beauty. It's a great way to unwind and appreciate the outdoors.
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Fishing. If you enjoy fishing, bring your gear and try your luck at fishing in Lake Carlton, which is stocked with a variety of fish species. Fishing is a popular activity in the park, and you may need a valid Oklahoma fishing license.
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Wildlife watching. The park is home to diverse wildlife, including deer, turkey, birds, and more. Bring your binoculars and camera to observe and capture the beauty of the park's wildlife in their natural habitat.
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Geocaching. If you enjoy treasure hunting and technology, try geocaching in the park. Geocaching involves using GPS coordinates to find hidden caches or containers. It's a fun and interactive way to discover hidden gems within the park.
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Photography. With its stunning landscapes, caves, cliffs, and wildlife, Robbers Cave State Park provides ample opportunities for photography. Capture the beauty of the park and create lasting memories.
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Attend park events. Check the park's event calendar for special programs, guided hikes, and events that may be taking place during your visit. These events can enhance your experience and provide additional opportunities to learn about the park's natural and cultural heritage.
Remember to follow park rules and regulations, respect the environment, and practice responsible outdoor recreation during your visit to Robbers Cave State Park. You won’t want to miss out on all the fun, so make sure to book your RV campsite sooner rather than later!
Wildlife in Robbers Cave State Park
Robbers Cave State Park is home to many species of wildlife, including:
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White-Tailed Deer
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Wild Turkeys
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Eastern Cottontail Rabbits
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Raccoons
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Gray Squirrels
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Bobcats
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Coyotes
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Eastern Box Turtles
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Various Bird Species (including hawks, owls, and songbirds)
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Eastern Collared Lizards (often referred to as "mountain boomers")
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And more!
While observing wildlife is a great experience, remember to keep a safe distance and avoid feeding animals. Feeding wildlife can disrupt their natural behaviors and can be dangerous. Do not disturb nesting birds, reptiles, or other animals you may encounter. Respect their natural habitats and keep a safe distance to avoid stress or harm to the wildlife.
Tips for Visiting Robbers Cave State Park
Before you hit the dusty trail, check out these last-minute tips on visiting Robbers Cave State Park.
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Bring enough food and water. The park is fairly close to a town center, but there are few options besides the town to find supplies once inside. Have enough to avoid a premature trip back.
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Check your gear. If you’re going repelling or climbing, especially as a beginner, make sure everything is set properly before you start. Keeping a checklist of things to do and carefully ticking them is a solid way to stay safe.
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During winter visits to Robbers Cave, you may find ice slicks are present and hard to spot. Tread carefully and take your time.
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If you’re hunting, practice safe barrel techniques at all times and be aware of your targets and what’s beyond them.
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Stay within your limits if you’re horseback riding. Don’t ask to trot or gallop if it’s your first time until you feel more comfortable on a mount.
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Respect Leave No Trace Principles. Practice responsible outdoor ethics by packing out all trash, staying on designated trails, and avoiding damage to the natural environment. Leave the park as beautiful as you found it.
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Before your trip, research the park's hours of operation, admission fees (if any), and any specific rules or regulations that apply. Having this information in advance will help you prepare accordingly.
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If you plan to explore caves or participate in adventurous activities like climbing or rappelling, consider wearing appropriate safety gear and helmets. Always prioritize safety and follow recommended safety guidelines.
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Oklahoma's weather can be unpredictable. Check the weather forecast for the day of your visit, and dress appropriately. Layered clothing is often a good choice to adapt to changing conditions.
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Oklahoma can get hot, especially during the summer months. Carry an adequate supply of water to stay hydrated throughout your visit, especially if you plan on hiking or engaging in physically demanding activities.
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Carry a fully charged cell phone with emergency contact numbers saved in case of unexpected situations. Cell phone reception may be limited in some areas of the park.
Now that you’re ready, it’s time to rent an RV and hit the road.
RV Rental for Robbers Cave State Park
That’ll do it for our guide to this amazing destination. It’s a wonderful place to make some memories, no matter what kind of adventure you may be looking for. And if you need some wheels to get you there, look no further than Cruise America. Their fleet of RVs has all the comforts of home ready to roll. Even for first-timers! Enjoy a shower, flushing toilet, working kitchen, bedding, and living space no matter where you set up camp.
Make the journey as joyful as the destination. Reserve a Robbers Cave State Park RV rental now!