RV Camping Near Robbers Cave State Park

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.

The park gained notoriety as a legendary outlaw refuge, attracting infamous figures like Jesse James and Belle Starr. The park was named after the cave that provided shelter for these outlaws, cementing its place in history. The cave's strategic location and secret passages allowed outlaws to escape from law enforcement, making it an almost impregnable sanctuary.

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 trip.

Why RVing Is the Perfect Way to Experience Robbers Cave State Park

Robbers Cave State Park is a place where history, rugged adventure, and scenic beauty all collide — and RV travel lets you experience every angle of this iconic destination at your own pace. Instead of rushing back to a hotel miles away, you can wake up immersed in the forest, enjoy breakfast at your own campsite, and step straight onto a trail.

RV travelers also benefit from:

• Onsite dining, bathrooms, and rest areas

• Easy access to multiple hiking and climbing zones

• More flexibility to explore nearby state attractions

• Affordable accommodations during peak seasons

The park attracts thousands of visitors each year who come to enjoy its amenities and natural beauty.

Whether you’re a weekend traveler or a long-term RVer, camping here gives you a front-row seat to Oklahoma wilderness and starlit skies — without sacrificing comfort.

Robbers Cave State Park Facts

Learning a bit of history about this interesting destination near Wilburton, OK will give you a deeper appreciation for the park.

• Robbers Cave State Park is situated in Latimer County, the place where it got its former name. Robbers Cave State Park was established as one of Oklahoma's original state parks.

• 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, surrounded by the Sans Bois Mountains. The park's name changed from Latimer State Park to Robbers Cave State Park.

• Of the park’s 8,000 plus acres, 189 of those are lakes making it a great choice for anglers too. The land holds historical significance and has been preserved for recreation and conservation.

• 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. Fourche Maline Creek is a significant natural feature running through the park.

• You’ll also find 3,800 acres of hunting grounds amid a forest backdrop for some adventurous sportsmenship.

• The park was infamously the hideout of outlaws over the years, including Jesse James, Belle Starr, the Dalton Gang, and the Rufus Buck Gang.

• Difficult terrain, somewhat hidden location, and a secret back exit made this a kind of stronghold for those running from the law.

• By 1935, the National Parks Service took control of the area and made it into the park we enjoy today. The park's development was part of President Roosevelt's New Deal program, with the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) doing much of the work. The CCC constructed park infrastructure, including trails, cabins, shelters, bathhouses, and other amenities, often using native stone to blend with the natural landscape. The CCC also built a dam that created Lake Carlton, further enhancing the park's recreational offerings.

Camp Tom Hale, established by the Boy Scouts in 1929, is a notable part of the park's history. Group camps are available for organized groups, and visitors can stay overnight in rustic cabins or the historic lodge. Shelters built by the CCC and other groups provide spaces for picnics and gatherings, and renovated bathhouses are among the park's amenities.

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.

From Interstate 40 (I-40):

1. Depending on your starting location, get onto I-40 in Oklahoma.

2. Travel east on I-40 until you reach the town of Henryetta, Oklahoma.

3. Take Exit 237 onto US-75 South.

4. Follow US-75 South for about 25 miles until you reach the town of Wilburton.

5. 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):

1. Depending on your starting location, get onto I-44 in Oklahoma.

2. Travel east on I-44 until you reach the town of McAlester, Oklahoma.

3. Take Exit 69 on US-69 South.

4. Follow US-69 South for about 20 miles until you reach the town of Wilburton.

5. 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 swimming pool, take a hot shower at the bathhouse, or eat lunch at the picnic tables. Other amenities include miniature golf, 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. At the beginning of 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!​

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

Safety tip: When exploring the outdoors, especially with children, be prepared for allergic reactions by carrying necessary medications like Benadryl or an epi-pen, and know how to recognize and respond to reactions for peace of mind.

Exploring Southeastern Oklahoma Near Robbers Cave State Park

If you have extra time before or after your state park visit, the region offers several hidden-gem attractions that pair perfectly with an RV road trip:

Wilburton (10 minutes away)
A charming small town with local restaurants, grocery stops, and last-minute supplies for RVers.

Lake Carlton & Lake Wayne Wallace Recreation Areas
Great for swimming, kayaking, and picnic views near the park.

Talihina Scenic Drive / Talimena National Scenic Byway (~1 hour away)
One of Oklahoma’s most beautiful mountain roads — especially stunning during fall foliage.

Heavener Runestone Park (~50 minutes away)
A historic site featuring ancient Viking-style markings, lush hiking trails, and unique viewpoints.

Featured Hiking Trails in Robbers Cave State Park

Here’s a closer look at some of the top trails mentioned in the original article, now with details RV travelers will actually use:

Where to Eat Near Robbers Cave State Park

When you’re craving a break from RV cooking, here are a few local dining recommendations:

Calico Heights Café (Wilburton)
Scenic terrace views + comfort breakfast foods — a perfect morning stop before hitting the trails.

Pete’s Place (Krebs – 30 min away)
A famous Italian restaurant offering huge homestyle portions — a road-trip worthy meal!

The Blue Bunny Grill
Casual burgers and sandwiches in a family-friendly atmosphere near the park entrance.

Boomarang Diner
A nostalgic Oklahoma mainstay serving chicken-fried steak, milkshakes, and Route-66-style charm.

Wildlife in Robbers Cave State Park

Robbers Cave State Park is home to many species of wildlife, including:

• White-Tailed Deer

• Wild Turkeys

• Eastern Cottontail Rabbits

• Raccoons

• Gray Squirrels

• Bobcats

• Coyotes

• Eastern Box Turtles

• Various Bird Species (including hawks, owls, and songbirds)

• Eastern Collared Lizards (often referred to as "mountain boomers")

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• During winter visits to Robbers Cave, you may find ice slicks are present and hard to spot. Tread carefully and take your time.

• If you’re hunting, practice safe barrel techniques at all times and be aware of your targets and what’s beyond them.

• 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. 

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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. 

Suggested RV Itineraries (1–3 Nights)

Choose your pace — here’s how to map out the perfect stay:

Whether you're chasing history, fresh air, or outdoor thrills — you’ll always find more to explore.

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!