Dog-Friendly Camping near Colony, OK

Campgrounds near Colony, Oklahoma sit among rolling hills and farmland in the central part of the state. The region experiences hot summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 100°F in July and August. Red sandstone formations characterize several parks, with elevations ranging from 1,500 to 1,800 feet above sea level in this prairie landscape.

What to do

Hiking among buffalo: 5 miles of trails at Camp Doris provide access to wildlife viewing. "Hiking trails can be accessed directly from Doris Campground, or there are numerous other trails in other areas a short drive away. Carry in all your water with bovine (longhorn, buffalo) covering virtually all areas of the refuge," notes Brad N.

Fishing at multiple lakes: Cast a line at Fort Cobb State Park Campground for crappie and other species. "We got a great site kind of secluded and awesome fishing spot right in front," shares Ashley H. The park features multiple fishing areas along shorelines with designated fishing docks.

Visit historic sites: Take a day trip to see regional landmarks near Territory Route 66 RV Park & Campgrounds. "While in the area it is recommended to visit Holy City and the unique town of Medicine Park. Also in Medicine Park there is a Creek that is stocked with Trout from November to March," suggests William A.

What campers like

Canyon landscapes: The unique terrain at Red Rock Canyon Adventure Park offers dramatic scenery unlike the surrounding plains. "It's interesting upon driving across flat plains and arriving at a canyon in the middle of it all! Only stayed one night. Was able to take a short hike to the canyon 'rim'," reports Cheryl M.

Modern facilities: Clean, well-maintained bathrooms and shower facilities at dog friendly campgrounds near Colony get high marks. "The bathrooms are gorgeous! They pick up your trash right at your site!" exclaims Anna about Wanderlust Crossings RV Park.

Dark night skies: Minimal light pollution creates excellent stargazing opportunities. "We had a sweet view of the full moon and it was just amazing to sit and watch the open sky," shares Jasmine B. about Water-Zoo Campground. Several parks maintain limited exterior lighting.

What you should know

Heat management strategies: Summer camping requires preparation. "The canyon provided a nice break from the heat. Worth the stop," mentions Nate C. about Red Rock Canyon. Sites with shade trees become premium reservations from June through September.

Limited drinking water: Some parks have water restrictions. "Please note that at the time of this review (3/2020) there is NO potable water anywhere in the WMWR. An e.coli contamination in 2017 is still not resolved and any an all water is considered unsafe, including all streams and lakes," warns Rebecca A. about Camp Doris.

Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some campgrounds. "This KOA is directly off I-40 exit 108. It is a decent quick over night if you are passing through. If possible I recommend the spots in back. The full hook up spots up front are literally a parking lot," advises Kelly B. about El Reno West KOA.

Tips for camping with families

Playgrounds and recreation: Several pet-friendly campgrounds near Colony feature dedicated children's areas. "Paved roads were great for bike riding, beautiful lake along the back side of the grounds, nice large dog run, clean and plenty of machines in the laundry area, super cool playground with outdoor workout equipment too," shares Sarah S. about El Reno West KOA.

Swimming options: Water features provide cooling recreation during hot months. "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," explains Colton K. about Foss State Park Campground.

Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children can observe native animals in safe settings. "There is free roaming Buffalo and Longhorn Cattle so dont be surprised if you see one in the Campground," notes William A. about Camp Doris. Keep a minimum 100-foot distance from all wildlife.

Tips from RVers

Pad considerations: Surface quality varies between parks. "Sites are concrete and very roomy. A real jewel at a very reasonable price," reports Steve about Wanderlust Crossings RV Park, while William A. notes Fort Cobb has "the RV pads are gravel and can be a little soft so bring some platforms to put the jacks down on."

Site selection strategy: Reserve strategically based on amenities and positioning. "The full hook up spots up front are literally a parking lot. The spots are so close you are almost touching the RVs beside you," warns Kelly B. about El Reno West KOA. "Only (3) three full hook up spots so book in advance!" advises Nick & Allyssa S. about Red Rock Canyon.

Seasonal preparation: Weather impacts vary by time of year. "It is a nice clean place. Just pick your spot. Only a very small handful of full hook ups," notes Kelly B. about Fort Cobb. Several parks recommend reservations 2-3 months in advance for spring and fall prime camping seasons when temperatures moderate.