Lake Standly Draper was a good place to see if I could solo camp at my age of 63??? I love the peace and tranquility feeling went after Labor Day and did a lot of fishing(no luck). Learned about myself and made some decisions on my next stage of life.
Lake Stanley Draper doesn't offer much when it comes to camping but it's a nice little day trip if you live in the OKC Metro and don't have time to get out of town. Camping is limited to primitive spots at the ATV park -- no water, no electric, no bathrooms ... just a couple of porta-potties. Rumor has it they're planning to put in some more modern spots by the water but there's nothing definitive. I was told by staff that day camping is allowed on the southwest "beach" by the dam. Draper has had a sketchy reputation for decades but the City of OKC is doing a great job of making this a great family day trip destination. Recently a bike/jog path was installed around the lake. 14 miles of paved and maintained trail for cyclists, runners, and walkers. You can tell how popular it is by all the vehicles in the parking lots at 7am! The marina has been recently remodeled and is bright and clean. Unfortunately, the grill that produced greasy cheeseburgers 40 years ago is no longer there but they have plans to add other options in the near future. Of course the main reason we go is for the kayaking. At 7 in the morning the lake is ours. We launch from a cove next to the marina parking lot near the boat ramps. Easy in and out. Jet Skis / SeaDoos, tubing, skiers, etc are usually at the south end. Most of the fishing seems to be on the north end. In addition, there are about a half-dozen fishing docks scattered around the lake. Draper isn't the most picturesque lake but there are enough trees and it's far enough away from any highways to let you relax and pretend you're more than 20 minutes from the house.
Just a no frills campground
the Campground at Lake Stanley Draper is Primitive. There are no Electric or water at the campground and no dump stations. They have started to clean the campground up by removing old brush and adding new tent pads, The only restrooms are 2 Porta-Potties at the campground so be prepared for no showers or running water. Also there are no campfire rings provided and if you want a fire you must bring your own and it must be atleast 4 inches off the ground. If you visit you must get a permit from the Marina office and call ahead to make sure they are open. Because this is not on the water of the lake, you will need to drive to fish or boat. there is alot of road noise so if you are looking for a quite place this may no fit your needs.
