Keystone Lake and Skiatook Lake offer multiple camping options near Cleveland, Oklahoma. Located in Pawnee County, these lakes sit within 30 minutes of Cleveland at elevations between 700-800 feet. Summer temperatures frequently reach the mid-90s with high humidity, making waterfront sites particularly desirable during peak camping season from May through September.
What to do
Water activities at Twin Points: Twin Points Campground on Skiatook Lake provides extensive shoreline access for swimming and fishing. "The lake itself is massive. Had no idea just how big until we saw from a distance. Wish we had a boat to take advantage," notes Craig E., who stayed at site #5.
Hiking trails at Bull Creek Peninsula: This primitive campground offers hiking along bluffs with lake views. "If you are lucky you can snag a site that is up on the bluff over the lake, the views are amazing (and it was less windy than the sites down on the lakeshore)!" writes Annie C.
Playground and recreational areas: Many campgrounds feature playgrounds for children. At Twin Points, visitors appreciate the "awesome playground & basketball goal" according to Myranda, who added that there are "open spaces to walk dogs."
Boating and fishing docks: Anglers can fish from shore or docks at most campgrounds. "The boat dock is nice and a good place to toss a hook in the water," mentions Annie C. about Twin Points.
What campers like
Lake views from campsites: Many campsites offer direct views of the water. At Tall Chief Cove, "We love to camp at Tall Chief Cove - Skiatook. We have camped here several times with friends and share the same site, with spots for two campers; right on the lake," says Liz R.
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention the well-maintained bathrooms. "Bathhouse was updated and clean with individual shower stall in each of the 4 areas," notes Craig E. about Twin Points, though he mentioned "unfortunately there was little water pressure at the bathouse."
Spacious sites: Campgrounds typically provide adequate space between sites. Randy S. recommends site A22 at Tall Chief Cove since "it's right on the water with a place for a boat and great area for swimming."
Pet-friendly areas: Most campgrounds welcome pets with designated areas. "We had plenty of areas for walking the dogs," reports Craig E. about Twin Points, making it ideal for pet friendly camping near Cleveland.
What you should know
Water access challenges: At many campgrounds, water hookups may require extra equipment. At Twin Points, Travis W. advises, "You'll want to bring at least 50' of water hose (probably more), as the spigots mostly seemed to be quite a distance from the pads. Also, bring a water hose splitter. Many sites share a single faucet."
Site leveling issues: Some sites require significant leveling. At Washington Irving South, Justin C. warns that "A few spots are far from level (#9, #7) and if your camper is over maybe 16 feet, getting level front to back may be impossible at these sites. My 30' camper could not be leveled."
Limited amenities at primitive sites: Several campgrounds offer only basic facilities. At Bull Creek Peninsula, Karen T. notes "No water available anywhere tho, which lowered my review to 4. No electric or dump station, so come prepared."
Insect activity: Bugs can be problematic, especially in summer. Travis W. reports from Twin Points: "The only downside for us was the bugs! So many mosquitos, flies, and bees. Of course, one of the things we forgot to bring was insect repellent."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Osage Point offers facilities within walking distance of campsites. Jacquelyn L. appreciated that "Bathroom facilities were nearby within walking distance" when camping at the group pavilion.
Swimming areas: Designated swimming spots provide safer water access for children. At Tall Chief Cove, Tom K. mentions "The beach is great for dogs" but cautions about potential rule enforcement.
Group camping options: Several campgrounds offer sites that accommodate multiple families. Liz R. describes Tall Chief Cove as perfect for sharing "the same site, with spots for two campers; right on the lake."
Open recreation space: Fields for games and activities are available at some campgrounds. Myranda appreciated Twin Points for its "open spaces" which provide room for children to play.
Tips for RVers
Hookup considerations: Full hookup availability varies by campground. At Tall Chief Cove, Randy S. advises: "Best to fill your tank before heading out, bring 200' of hose, or bring a couple water containers" since some sites are far from water sources.
RV site selection: Choose sites based on size limitations. At The RV Park at Keystone Lake, Richard G. appreciates that "Sites are spacious level and easily accessible" making it ideal for pet friendly RV camping near Cleveland, Oklahoma.
Campground road conditions: Road quality affects larger vehicles. Richard notes that at The RV Park at Keystone Lake, "Streets & parking areas are blacktopped and pretty level" according to Neda H., making access easier for RVs.
Utility access challenges: Some hookups require special equipment or physical abilities. Neda H. cautions about The RV Park at Keystone Lake: "The water hookup is under the ground like a water meter location, and both my husband & myself have physical limitations that prevent us from getting on our knees to reach under the ground for hookups."
