Canton Lake offers numerous pet friendly camping options across several well-maintained campgrounds. The 7,910-acre reservoir sits at approximately 1,615 feet elevation in northwestern Oklahoma, with camping areas distributed around its 48 miles of shoreline. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F during peak camping season from June through August, with moderate humidity and occasional thunderstorms.
What to do
Hiking opportunities: At Roman Nose State Park, trails provide diverse terrain and scenic views. "Amazing trails and great views," notes Justin J. The Spring Loop Trail with the Spring Pavilion is particularly recommended as "Many brooks and small waterfalls along the trails" according to Dana H.
Fishing access: Canton Lake is known for excellent fishing, especially for walleye and striper. "The lake is on three sides of sites with boat ramp," explains LeCena M. about Blaine Park. Longdale Campground is another popular fishing spot where campers report "Great place to fish and lots of wildlife to see" according to Leana T.
Disc golf course: Big Bend Park features a challenging disc golf course adjacent to the campground. "The park has a very nice, challenging disc golf course beside the campground," reports Terry P., making it an excellent activity option when not swimming or boating.
What campers like
Spacious, well-planned sites: Big Bend Park receives consistent praise for its thoughtful layout. "Sites are on different levels, most everyone has a good view of the lake. Sites are not too close and are at an angle, which makes it more private," explains N.L. Kelly B. adds, "Site spacing is good" and notes the park offers "Great sites. Some lakeside. Many have tons of shade."
Covered picnic facilities: Many campsites feature covered picnic areas that provide welcome shade. At Canadian Campground, Dana H. describes "Cement pads, covered picnic tables, drive-thru, and back-up sites." Similar amenities exist at other Canton Lake locations, helping campers manage the summer heat.
Quiet atmosphere: The relative isolation creates a peaceful environment. Rebecca L. reports about Big Bend Park: "I spent about a week here at the beginning of February and didn't see anyone else the entire time. Very safe and love the covered picnic tables."
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds around Canton Lake operate from April 1 to October 31, with reduced or no services during winter. Rebecca L. notes that Big Bend Park is "free in the winter with no amenities available at that time," offering an option for self-sufficient winter campers.
Storm impacts: Weather can affect facilities. Sandy Cove Campground has varying cell reception according to Denise L., who mentions "poor cell phone reception and no dump station in this campground. You have to go across the dam to use dump station."
Reservation recommendations: During peak periods, secure reservations in advance. "Very busy so need to reserve for weekends," advises LeCena M. regarding Corps of Engineers campgrounds like Big Bend Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and facilities: Multiple campgrounds feature play areas. Dana H. notes Big Bend Park has a "playground and public toilets" while Canadian Campground includes "playground, bathrooms with showers, boat ramp."
Swimming options: Red Rock Canyon Adventure Park, though slightly farther from Canton Lake, offers family-friendly water recreation. Jenny F. describes it as "Very family friendly, pool, camp store, playgrounds" with "numerous rappelling sites."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The lake area supports diverse wildlife viewing. Leana T. mentions Longdale Campground offers "lots of wildlife to see," making it ideal for nature-oriented family activities.
Tips from RVers
Level, accessible sites: For RVs, Big Bend Park provides well-designed access. Dana H. describes "well-maintained roads, old-growth trees, landscaping, ample sized back-in sites with asphalt" and specifies that "Each r.v. site has a spigot and shore power. Some are 50 amp and others are 30 all with 15."
Dump station locations: Plan waste management accordingly. Denise L. advises Sandy Cove visitors that "You have to go across the dam to use dump station," highlighting the importance of knowing facility locations before arrival.
Check-in procedures: Big Bend's registration process requires planning. Kelly B. notes "Check in process was a bit annoying. Made reservations and paid online then had to wait in a long line at gate shack for them to hand you paperwork."
