Black Mesa State Park Campground sits near the highest point in Oklahoma, approximately 30 miles from Boise City in the state's panhandle region. The area features distinctive semi-arid terrain with golden grasslands, yucca plants, and cottonwood trees along creek beds. Summer temperatures often exceed 90°F while winter nights can drop below freezing, creating distinct camping experiences across seasons.
What to do
Hike the Mesa: The trail to Oklahoma's highest elevation point requires proper preparation. "As Oklahoma's highest point of elevation, Black Mesa is a bucket list destination for any Okie... Trail is simple and easy to follow. Near the trail head is also 3-corners, and fossilized dinosaur footprints," notes Black Mesa State Park Campground visitor Dusty G.
Bird watching: The diverse ecosystem supports numerous bird species. "Cottonwood trees surround the RV pad sites. Walk along the river trail is filled with more bird varieties," writes Ursula about her experience at Black Mesa State Park Campground.
Explore historical sites: The area contains segments of the Santa Fe Trail and other historical markers. A camper at Cimarron Campground noted, "23 miles Santa Fe Trail are within the Parks boundaries. Bobwhite, and coyote, dear and other birds spotted through the Park."
Visit dinosaur tracks: Several locations near Boise City contain preserved dinosaur footprints. "Take a drive north and view the beautiful scenery including the Black Mesa site. There's also a dark sky viewing area above the campground," recommends Gonzo A.
What campers like
Dark sky stargazing: The region offers exceptional stargazing conditions with minimal light pollution. "Very quiet and dark for star gazing. Amazing trails!" shares Bruce K. about his stay at Black Mesa State Park Campground.
Wildlife encounters: Many campers report seeing diverse wildlife. At Cimarron National Grassland, one reviewer observed, "The sunrises alone are worth the price of admission, which was just $7 per night... The area is fantastic for bird lovers, and we watched flocks of Starlings tuck themselves into the marsh grasses for the night."
Fishing opportunities: Several ponds in the area offer fishing. "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," notes Terri B. at Cimarron Campground.
Solitude and quiet: The remote location provides peaceful camping experiences. "This place was wonderful. Clean, quiet, remote, beautiful... I was the only one there. As there was no rain in the forecast, I slept out under the magnificent stars, staring at the milky way late into the night," shares David S.
What you should know
Limited services: The remote location means services are spread out. "When we were about 30 miles from the park we started to wonder what we got into. The landscape driving up to the park is like desert. To our surprise we pulled into a little oasis in the middle of big country," explains Dan M. about his visit to Black Mesa State Park Campground.
Cell service limitations: Mobile connectivity varies throughout the area. "I had zero cell service in the area, which was fantastic, but be sure to plan for it!" advises Gentri R.
Weather preparedness: The panhandle region experiences temperature extremes. "Plan for heat and take plenty of water if you go on the High Point hike," recommends Gentri R.
Road conditions: Some campground access roads require careful driving. "The dirt road to get there is very rough," warns Truly W. about Cimarron National Grassland.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer facilities for children. The playground at Corral RV Park received praise: "The park for the kids was phenomenal. There was plenty for them to do, including a basketball court, so they were able to run off some energy after being pent up in the car all day," notes Justin C.
Educational opportunities: The region provides hands-on learning about nature and history. "The area is fantastic for bird lovers... Hiking is close by on the Sante Fe Trail which follows the original path of the old wagon trail through the plains," shares Shari G.
Yurt camping options: For families seeking a glamping experience near Boise City, Oklahoma, yurt camping provides comfort while maintaining a connection to the outdoors. "After a long day of driving, this rv park was exactly what we were looking for. A safe, quiet, well lit, park with clean, pull through sites and high touch management," writes Krystal F.
Water activities: Some campgrounds feature small ponds for fishing and recreation. "Nice fishing at small ponds. One pond has ADA access. Small playground nearby," reports Keri F. about Cimarron National Grassland.
Tips from RVers
Levelness of sites: RV campers note the quality of parking areas. "The parking area is really well kept and the gravel parts are 95% level, we didn't need to do any additional leveling. I believe all sites are full hookup," shares Rick D. about Corral RV Park.
Hookup availability: Electrical connections vary by campground. "The sites were decent and spaced out well. They also included a covered area where the picnic table was. Not a ton of shade overall so it can get warm fast," notes Gonzo A.
Tree clearance: Some access roads have low-hanging branches. "CAUTION: Before you get to site 1, there are 2 trees the one on the left has the scars to show the damage it has done to taller vehicles," warns Terri B.
Weather considerations for yurt camping: When booking yurt camping near Boise City, Oklahoma, consider seasonal weather patterns. "We came to this area to summit the high point of Oklahoma. This is a very well kept place with clean bathrooms and showers. There is a mix of tent and RV sites," shares Rob S.
