Foss State Park, located approximately 12 miles west of Clinton in western Oklahoma, offers equestrian camping opportunities within reach of Cheyenne. The park encompasses over 1,700 acres surrounding Foss Lake, with multiple campground areas at varying elevations. The region experiences hot summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and mild winters, though strong winds can create challenging conditions for tent campers during certain seasons.
What to do
Water recreation access: At Foss State Park Campground, visitors can enjoy swimming in designated areas away from boating traffic. "This campground offers an area sectioned off for swimmers. A lot of room is available for boating fun wether it be fishing, skiing, tubing, etc," notes Colton K.
Seasonal events: Foss State Park Campground hosts activities throughout the year for campers. "The park rangers do special events during the year like fireworks on the lake for the 4th of July, haunted trails and trick or treating for Halloween, some other events here and there year round," according to a visitor.
Wildlife viewing: Some campers report wildlife encounters during their stay. "We were visited in our sleep by raccoons trying to get in our tent," warns Anna M., highlighting the importance of proper food storage at Buffalo Bend campground.
What campers like
Spacious sites: The camping areas provide ample space for larger setups. "Sites are pull through and big enough to fit a 40' fifth wheel," reports Janette M. about the lakeside camping options.
Clean facilities: Water-Zoo Campground maintains well-kept grounds and facilities according to visitors. "The grounds were kept clean and grass was cut short. They even came out and mowed the lawn again before departure. The bathrooms were clean and separate from one another," explains Heather M.
Helpful staff: Park personnel receive positive mentions from visitors. "When we called the park to make a change, a very nice lady answered and took care of our issue. There are a lot of campgrounds that leave you to deal with an internet site...not here...they helped us make a change as they knew we were on the road traveling," shares Tom R.
What you should know
Bathroom variations: Facilities differ between camping areas. "Rv sites have great bath houses with toilets, a paved parking lot, and the showers are coin operated. Tent campers have unpaved roads along with a permanent building for the toilet provided and no showers," explains Jo A.
Environmental challenges: Foss State Park Campground experiences regional weather patterns that affect camping conditions. "I don't know if it's an Oklahoma thing but the wind was crazy making tent camping a little rough. I'm not used to what're gnat like bug they have so plan accordingly they are attracted mostly to light but swarm both day and night," reports Anna M.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity can be unreliable in certain areas. "Cell service is very limited going in and out of no service," mentions a camper staying at Buffalo Bend.
Tips for camping with families
Multiple recreation options: Families can take advantage of diverse activities. "There is a nice swim beach, great open fields for sport games, a nice playground, frisbee golf course, and supposedly a small herd of bison behind the visitor center that you can watch come in to feed daily," reports Annie C.
Convenient facilities: Some campgrounds feature amenities particularly suited for family needs. "Each restroom had a toilet, shower and sink. There is a code to get in which I liked because it keeps riff raff out," notes a camper at Water-Zoo Campground.
Indoor alternatives: Water-Zoo Campground provides unique options during inclement weather. "Our plan: spend a few days at the campground and let our 12 yo son enjoy the Water Zoo," shares Jasmine B., though visitors should "check when the water park is open! During our visit it was only open on the weekends."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RV campers recommend specific areas for optimal experience. "We had a full pull thru site which was nice. We also had a sweet view of the full moon and it was just amazing to sit and watch the open sky," describes Jasmine B.
Horse-friendly options: For equestrian campers exploring horse campgrounds near Cheyenne, Oklahoma, some facilities accommodate horses. "For those with horses, this campground is horse friendly. There is a place to house them overnight," notes Heather M. about Water-Zoo Campground.
Noise considerations: Some RV parks provide quieter settings despite proximity to major roads. "It is conveniently located near I-40, the campground sits off the road and was not noisy," mentions Tawnee P.