Nestled in the Ouachita Mountains of southeastern Oklahoma, Clayton offers diverse camping experiences ranging from riverside sites to mountain retreats. The region sits at approximately 695 feet elevation with temperatures reaching 90°F in summer months and dipping below freezing during winter. Fall camping brings moderate temperatures with overnight lows often requiring extra layers.
What to do
Horseback riding trails: Robbers Cave State Park maintains dedicated equestrian camping areas with specific trail access. "This is such a great park, one of the best I have ever been to for equine camping. Horses are very happy here, just remember to bring your coggins paperwork," notes experienced camper Kent B.
Trout fishing access: The Upper Mountain Fork River offers excellent fishing opportunities near Boondockers Landing. One camper describes it as "nestled right beside the upper Mountain Fork river, this campground doesn't disappoint. Roomy, with large shade trees, cement pads and all services."
Trail exploration: Cedar Lake provides hiking options suitable for multiple experience levels. A visitor shares, "We enjoy the Horsetheif Springs Trail which starts behind the dump station. You can either hike a small couple mail loop or extend it to 14 miles."
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: McGee Creek State Park offers isolated camping spots for those seeking peace and quiet. "I stayed at 'tent hill' primitive area. Spot number 3 and it was PERFECT! Wooded area, quiet, peaceful. Trail literally right across from the section," reports camper Nikki F.
Yurt accommodations: Clayton-area state parks provide yurt camping options for those wanting more comfort than traditional tent camping. Elm Campground at Beavers Bend offers yurt structures as alternative accommodations for visitors exploring southeastern Oklahoma.
Community facilities: K River Campground provides shared spaces for all visitors. "They have a community kitchen anyone can use!" mentions an enthusiastic camper, highlighting the collaborative atmosphere.
What you should know
Weather preparation: Fall and winter camping requires extra planning. A visitor to Cedar Lake advises, "When we lived in Oklahoma we would camp out regularly in March, bring jackets and stuff to keep warm because it is still very chilly, but warm enough during the day for some nice hiking."
Bathroom conditions: Facilities vary widely between campgrounds. One Robbers Cave visitor notes, "Showers need cleaning and water pressure is very poor," while others mention finding wildlife in older facilities.
Water activities: Brooken Cove offers swimming opportunities with some limitations. A camper reports, "There are several sandy beach areas and the water is shallow for a great distance out, making it good for swimming. Beware of an abundance of geese who frequent the park and leave lovely little presents everywhere, including the beach areas."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Brooken Cove provides child-friendly recreation areas. "Great playground for kids, clean bathrooms with showers. There are several sandy beach areas and the water is shallow for a great distance out, making it good for swimming," notes Angie N.
Educational opportunities: Exploring local caves combines learning with adventure. "Lots of history at Robbers Cave State Park! Belle Starr famous Lady Outlaw! Jesse James Gang! Beautiful lakes and numerous hiking trails!" explains Eddie J.
Activities schedule: State parks often provide organized events for children. A visitor to Robbers Cave shares, "When you get to camp they will give you a schedule of all the events that are going on throughout the week you are staying. We did a hayride that lead us through the park to the stables where there is a petting zoo."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park offers full hookups but has layout limitations. "What we don't love: the camping is more rv aka parking lot type camping. Small sites. We prefer to camp, and not park in a parking lot," advises Brittany J.
Seasonal planning: Fall brings ideal temperatures and fewer crowds. "We stayed here for only one night but will definitely be back. Nice campsites with room between sites. Most sites have lake views and there is alit of access to the lake," notes an October visitor to Brooken Cove.
Hookup options: Many campgrounds offer partial hookups only. At Brooken Cove, a camper reports, "Site 51 was the best view. Long but narrow paved spot. We couldn't back all the way up because the tree was too low, but the spot was long enough where it wasn't an issue. The water spicket was about 80 ft away."
