Best Campgrounds near Clayton, OK

Camping spots near Clayton, Oklahoma range from developed sites to secluded forest locations in the Ouachita National Forest. The region sits at elevations between 700-2,000 feet with dense pine forests dominating the landscape. Summer temperatures regularly reach into the 90s with high humidity, while winter nights can drop below freezing from November through February.

What to do

Fishing opportunities: Clayton Lake State Park Campground offers excellent fishing access with multiple bank locations. "Our visit here is always great, The Camp Ranger is a great guy. We couldn't be more pleased with a place to camp and kayak," notes Sam L.

Hiking trails: At Talimena State Park Campground, visitors can access the 220-mile Ouachita Trail. A reviewer explains, "The Ouachita Trail is a 200+ mile trail and this park is the Western Terminus. The park has tent and RV sites. The tent sites are level and clean."

Wildlife viewing: The Dead Man Gap Dispersed Campsite provides opportunities to observe local species. "Be weary of the spiders (daddy long legs) and stick bugs everywhere! Harmless but creeped out the young one," mentions one camper who visited in September 2020.

What campers like

Creek access: Many dispersed camping areas feature creek access for cooling off during hot months. At Dead Man Gap Dispersed Campsite, "There is a creek with a pool maybe 100 yards downhill from the campsite, great for cooling off on a hot summer day or filtering water," according to Daniel S.

Privacy between sites: K River Campground offers sites with good separation. "The rv spots are shaded. Electric and water but no sewer if you're close to the river which we were," notes Cindy W., who appreciated the campground layout.

Astronomy viewing: The region provides excellent stargazing due to minimal light pollution. A reviewer at Robbers Cave State Park shared, "The wife and I fished along the creek below the dam, all in all it was a fun weekend, the scenery was awesome as always."

What you should know

Fire restrictions: Check current regulations before planning campfires. One camper at Dead Man Gap advised, "Please don't take rocks and set up your own fire ring. The main has 2 already and the others all seem to have one. PLEASE PRACTICE LNT!!!"

Cell service limitations: Many camping locations near Clayton have limited or no connectivity. At Deadman Gap South Trail Dispersed Campsite, visitors find a "Great little spot to visit. Private, safe, clean," according to Shahar O., though no services are available.

Road conditions: Access to dispersed camping often requires suitable vehicles. At Dead Man Gap, "The road in/out has some tough spots, 4WD would be preferred," cautions Ryin J., who camped there in September 2020.

Tips for camping with families

Playground access: When camping with children, look for sites with play areas. At McGee Creek State Park Campground, "This campground also has a play ground, pavilion, swim beach, and fishing docks," according to Jon B.

Guided activities: McGee Creek State Park Campground offers various structured programs. "The state Park also have 8 camping huts that are air condition and heated that have a fireplace, screened in porch that you can relax and look out over the lake," notes Melanie W.

Kid-friendly hikes: Several parks offer trails manageable for families. One visitor to Robbers Cave State Park stated, "Beautiful lakes and numerous hiking trails," making it great for exploring with children.

Tips from RVers

Hookup availability: Many campgrounds offer electrical connections but fewer have full-hookups. At Potato Hills South, there are "full RV hook ups (30 amp). Also has area for primitive camping," notes a reviewer.

Site dimensions: RV sites vary considerably in size and layout across the area. At Talimena State Park, "Right on the highway bringing road noise, an all-in-one bathroom shower with only one male/female in each at a time, close campsites," according to a reviewer named Adams.

Dump station locations: Plan ahead for waste disposal. K River Campground includes a sanitary dump station on site, with one camper noting, "We stayed for 7 days and we were able to have totally relaxed days as well as very active days."