Canton Lake camping offers diverse options beyond the standard RV experience. Located in northwestern Oklahoma at an elevation of 1,615 feet, the lake covers approximately 7,900 surface acres with camping areas primarily on the western shore. Winter campers should note the seasonal operation of most facilities, with temperatures regularly dropping below freezing between November and March.
What to do
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," notes a Big Bend Park visitor.
Spring exploration: Roman Nose State Park offers unique geological features to explore. "We love to go wade in the springs. Nice and refreshing. Camping is quiet and fun," shares a camper at Roman Nose State Park.
Route 66 tourism: The historic highway runs near several campgrounds. "Within 5 miles of restaurants, laundromat, groceries, fuel, historic sites, tourist attractions, seasonal splash park and paved walking trail," mentions a Territory Route 66 reviewer.
What campers like
Lakefront positioning: Sites at different elevation levels provide privacy while maintaining views. "Since 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 a Big Bend visitor.
Covered picnic areas: Many sites feature practical shade structures. "The picnic tables were all covered," notes a Big Bend camper, making outdoor meals more comfortable regardless of weather.
Winter camping deals: Seasonal price variations make off-season stays affordable. "A wonderful campground that is free in the winter with no amenities available at that time," shares a Big Bend Park camper who stayed in February.
What you should know
Site availability changes seasonally: Summer weekends require advance planning. "We were here on a Saturday night in mid-August and the campground was only partially full," reports a Big Bend visitor, but this varies by season.
Bathhouse proximity: Facilities may be distant from some sites. "We didn't use the bathhouse because it was so far from our site," notes a camper at Big Bend Park.
Weather considerations: The region experiences extreme temperature shifts. "The signage getting to the park was great but within the park not so much. Know where your going before hand if you can," advises a Roman Nose State Park visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Hidden gems: Some parks offer unexpected amenities. "Miniature golf, paddle boats, hiking trails, golf course and pool. There is a little store and restaurant in the park. You can even rent a teepee for the night," explains a Roman Nose visitor.
Playground access: Multiple rv parks Canton Lake visitors mention child-friendly facilities. "Gated with well-maintained roads, old-growth trees, landscaping, ample sized back-in sites with asphalt, covered picnic tables with prep area, and grills... Playground and public toilets," notes a visitor to Big Bend Park.
Indoor options nearby: Alternatives exist for inclement weather. "Roman Nose is a popular State Park with many activities to keep you entertained & beautiful scenery," mentions a reviewer, noting indoor facilities at the park lodge.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Choose sites based on shade needs. "We were in site A10 which was a nice site overlooking the lake with shade in evening, but sunny most of the day," shares a Wanderlust Crossings RV Park guest.
Clean facilities priority: Several RV parks near Canton Lake earn praise for cleanliness. "Sites are concrete and very roomy. A real jewel at a very reasonable price," notes a Wanderlust Crossings visitor.
Low clearance awareness: Tree branches can be problematic. "Be careful of low hanging branches if you have a taller RV," cautions a visitor about certain rv parks Canton Lake areas.
Dump station location: Plan ahead for sanitation needs. "Dump site on outside of facility," mentions a Big Bend Park visitor, highlighting the need to factor this into arrival and departure logistics.
