Black Mesa State Park in northwestern Oklahoma offers expansive camping opportunities in the state's highest and most arid region, with elevations rising above 4,700 feet. Temperatures vary dramatically between seasons with summer days reaching 100°F and winter nights dropping below freezing. The area's unique ecology supports desert-adapted wildlife including pronghorn antelope, mule deer, and various reptile species uncommon elsewhere in the region.
What to do
**Stargazing sessions: Dark skies above Black Mesa State Park Campground provide exceptional viewing conditions for amateur astronomers. The park includes a designated dark sky viewing area where light pollution is minimal, with summer and fall offering the clearest nights for constellation spotting.
**Hiking the mesa summit trail: A challenging 4-mile trail leads to Oklahoma's highest point, requiring proper planning and water supplies. "Plan for heat and take plenty of water if you go on the High Point hike," advises reviewer Gentri R., who appreciated the well-maintained trail system.
**Wildlife photography opportunities: Early mornings at Cimarron Campground offer excellent conditions for photographing native species. "Upon entering the park we were greeted by a small herd of pronghorn deer bouncing along the road. We also ran into a herd of mule deer in the park that were quite accustomed to people," notes Andrew T., highlighting the accessible wildlife viewing.
What campers like
**Geological diversity: The transition from prairie to mesa creates distinct microclimates and terrain types within a small area. As Andrew T. from Thompson Grove Boondocking observed, "After heading west out of the park to Black Mesa itself the geography changes rapidly from small limestone formations and boulders to large sandstone canyons out of a Wild West movie."
**Isolation from urban centers: The remote location provides rare quiet and minimal artificial light. "The park's isolation provides a quiet environment with minimal noise disturbance for sensitive pets," notes a visitor who appreciated the 36-mile distance from the nearest town.
**Cottonwood groves: Mature trees provide welcome shade in an otherwise exposed landscape. "Cottonwood trees surround the RV pad sites. Walk along the river trail is filled with more bird varieties," reports Ursula from Black Mesa State Park Campground, highlighting natural features that enhance comfort during hot weather.
What you should know
**Limited services and supplies: The nearest comprehensive services are 36 miles away in Boise City, requiring advanced planning. "The nearest town where you can get supplies and gas is Boise 36 miles east of the park," cautions Andrew T., emphasizing the importance of arriving prepared.
**Extreme temperature variations: Summer days frequently exceed 95°F while nights can drop 30-40 degrees, requiring appropriate clothing and gear. "Not a ton of shade overall so it can get warm fast," warns Gonzo A., suggesting early morning activities during summer months.
**Seasonal water availability: Some water sources may be seasonal or unreliable during drought periods at Felt Picnic Area. "No water. Quiet, very dark - slept good," reports Lena H., indicating the need for campers to bring sufficient water supplies.
Tips for camping with families
**Historical exploration opportunities: The Santa Fe Trail passes through the region with accessible historical markers and interpretive sites. Shari G. notes that hiking is available "on the Sante Fe Trail which follows the original path of the old wagon trail through the plains."
**Educational wildlife encounters: Dawn and dusk offer best viewing times for regional wildlife, with minimal crowds. One camper observed, "We watched flocks of Starlings tuck themselves into the marsh grasses for the night. Raptors, warblers, and many other bird species use the area as a fly-over stop during migration."
**Youth-friendly fishing spots: Stocked ponds at Cimarron National Grassland provide accessible fishing for beginners. "Several Ponds some are stocked with trout in the winter a stamp is needed for the rainbow trout. During the summer they are stocked with catfish," explains Terri B., outlining seasonal fishing opportunities.
Tips from RVers
**Limited hookup availability: Most dog friendly campgrounds near Campo have basic or no hookups, requiring self-sufficiency. "We chose to stay at Black Mesa on our way back from a week in Colorado... It is parks like this one that makes me so happy to be RV'ing. On our way back to Colorado next year we will stay here for a week and enjoy this awesome place," reports Dan M.
**Level parking considerations: RV sites at Wild Bills RV Park offer reliable level surfaces for larger vehicles. "Each site is pull thru with full hook ups. The laundry is in a heated bathroom with shower," notes Beverley D., highlighting amenities important for extended stays.
**Generator restrictions: Some campgrounds have noise regulations or generator-free zones to preserve the natural quiet. Review rules at each location as policies vary between the dog-friendly campsites near Campo and surrounding areas.
