Camping sites near Amorita, Oklahoma sit in the northern part of the state amid open plains terrain, experiencing strong seasonal winds and temperature fluctuations. Summer temperatures often reach the high 90s with occasional thunderstorms, while winters can drop below freezing. The region's camping options range from riverside sites with abundant shade to more exposed locations with unobstructed views of Oklahoma's expansive skies.
What to do
Crystal digging at Salt Plains: Located at Salt Plains State Park Campground, this unique activity lets visitors dig for selenite crystals from April 1 to October 15. "You could spend hours just digging up the crystals on the salt plains. I would absolutely recommend everyone to spend the weekend here just relaxing and having a ton of fun," notes camper Alyn M.
Birdwatching on hiking trails: Several trails throughout the camping area provide excellent bird observation opportunities. As one visitor at Salt River Road mentions, the area has "Great place to bring your kids if you want them to put the phones down and spend quality time with you."
Fishing in shallow waters: Anglers report good catches, particularly catfish. A camper notes, "Catfish are abundant and LARGE. Lake is fairly shallow."
Walking the spillway: For panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, the spillway offers an accessible hike. "Views from top of the spillway are unbelievable. Lots of fishing going on," reports Korina D.
What campers like
Quiet atmosphere: Many campers note the peaceful setting at camping areas near Amorita. "Besides the baseball players, we're the only ones here," reports Monica B. at Medicine Lodge City Park.
Riverfront campsites: Shaded spots along the river are particularly popular. Lisa M. explains, "Several spots are butted up right against the river with lots of shade trees. There are 30 and 50 amp spots and all the spots have water."
Shallow swimming areas: The shallow water makes for safe family recreation. Jennifer D. at Sandy Beach comments, "The water is shallow forever so you don't have to worry much about little ones playing."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The diverse ecosystem supports various wildlife. "Great hiking and great birdwatching," notes one camper about the riverfront areas.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies significantly by provider. At Great Salt Plains State Park, one camper reports, "Verizon service works good throughout the park. Two years ago when I visited I was using T-Mobile, and it hardly work at all. Very bad signal."
Early office closures: Park offices typically close around 4 PM. "The office of the grounds does close rather early at 4 p.m. so it made catching staff a bit harder as there didn't seem to be anyone actively patrolling the park."
Weather conditions: Strong winds are common across the plains. "Very pretty park with lots of trees in the campground, birdwatching and fishing! Family and group friendly."
Air traffic noise: Occasional noise disruptions from nearby airfields. "The only distraction was the morning we left, when several small planes made practice landings and takeoffs at the nearby Jet Airport. They were so noisy when they flew over the campground and river that you couldn't hear anything but the engine noise."
Tips for camping with families
Bring proper digging tools: For crystal digging excursions, bring sturdy equipment. "Take some metal shovels and metal hand shovels (the little plastic ones break) take lots of water, baby wipes and towels."
Pack storage containers: For preserving crystal finds. "You'll also want to take egg cartons because the crystals are soft when you dig them up so you'll want to store them in it to harden up."
Use the playground facilities: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. "Showers and flushing toilets and a playground are nearby," reports one camper at Shirley's Shine Car Wash and RV Park.
Prepare for digital disconnection: Limited connectivity means more family focus. "No cell service around the park at all. No over the air TV. Great place to bring your kids if you want them to put the phones down and spend quality time with you."
Tips from RVers
Reserve flat sites for large rigs: Some campgrounds can accommodate bigger vehicles. "We fit in a super C (Semi truck) 41ft long x 13.6 height with flat tow."
Check hookup availability: Water and electric options vary by campground. At Cherokee City RV Park, campers find "electric, water and sewer hookups. Walking distance to the restaurant."
Arrive early for check-in: Since offices close early, plan accordingly. "Reservations must be made through Reserve America."
Consider site spacing: Some RV areas have limited separation between sites. "Paved RV sites with water and electric, some a little too close together."
