Camping options near Enid, Oklahoma range from urban RV parks to state parks with unique geological features. The area sits at an elevation around 1,240 feet above sea level in the transitional zone between the Great Plains and Central Lowlands. Water levels at many enid ok campgrounds fluctuate seasonally due to the region's semi-arid climate, with annual precipitation averaging 33 inches, mostly occurring from April through September.
What to do
Crystal digging at Salt Plains: Explore the unique selenite crystal digging areas at Salt Plains State Park Campground from April through October. "The Great Salt Plains is great place to go for an adventure. You could spend hours just digging up the crystals on the salt plains," notes Alyn M., who recommends bringing metal tools as plastic shovels tend to break.
Hiking trails: The 18-mile network of trails at Roman Nose State Park offers varying difficulty levels through canyon landscapes. "There are many brooks and small waterfalls along the trails. Go, you'll love it," says Dana H. The park's curved terrain creates discovery moments as you hike through wooded areas.
Fishing: Many campgrounds near Enid feature fishing opportunities with varying regulations. Richard from Salt Plains State Park observes, "Crystal digging is only available from April 1 to October 15 due to the area being a migration stop for whooping cranes. We camped at the river road campsite... Make it a point to walk up the stairs to the top of the dam. There is a great view of the lake."
What campers like
Quiet camping areas: Several less-crowded camping options exist within driving distance of Enid. At Lake McMurtry West Campground, campers appreciate the solitude. "Once you get to the campground, it is peaceful with no traffic noise, light pollution or other distractions. The view of the lake is fantastic and it's easy to relax here," reports Greg F.
Lakeside camping: Water access varies between campgrounds. At Salt Plains State Park, Lisa M. shares, "Several spots are butted up right against the river with lots of shade trees. There are 30 and 50 amp spots and all the spots have water. There are plenty of tent camping spots as well."
Wildlife viewing: Campgrounds near Enid offer wildlife viewing opportunities throughout the year. Donna H. notes about Salt Plains, "Very pretty park with lots of trees in the campground, birdwatching and fishing! Family and group friendly. Sweet little wildwood chapel and nice trails."
What you should know
Seasonal challenges: Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F at many campgrounds near Enid. Dana H. describes Lake Carl Blackwell as "Groomed perfection. I've been to Lake Carl Blackwell a number of times, and that place is excellently kept. Large lake ran by OSU. Eight miles west of Stillwater (and a hospital) where restaurants and provisions can be found."
Road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds require caution. Jon B. notes about Lake McMurtry's primitive sites, "Should it rain while you are staying in either spot, the roads out could change quite a bit especially due to the sandy soil. The Lake states 4wd is required to stay at the sites."
Variable amenities: Facilities differ significantly between campgrounds. Sandy Beach offers basic accommodations but provides good water recreation. Jennifer D. reports, "We tent camped and had a good time. The water is shallow forever so you don't have to worry much about little ones playing. It isn't too far from the great salt plains."
Tips for camping with families
Shallow water recreation: For families with young children, Sandy Beach offers safe water play. "The water is shallow forever so you don't have to worry much about little ones playing. It isn't too far from the great salt plains. Had a awesome day digging and was nice to go for a swim go get all the salt and sand off of us," shares Jennifer D.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature playground equipment for children. Lisa M. mentions about Salt Plains State Park, "Showers and flushing toilets and a playground are nearby. Great hiking and great birdwatching."
Educational opportunities: The unique geological features provide learning experiences. Alyn M. recommends Salt Plains State Park: "I would absolutely recommend everyone to spend the weekend here just relaxing and having a ton of fun. The RV Camp sites were very clean and the cleaning staff that were there when we went were very friendly."
Tips from RVers
Site spacing: RV site spacing varies significantly between campgrounds. At Ashley Lane RV Park in Enid, Sue F. reports, "We've stayed there twice. Clean and relatively quiet depending on amount of campsites filled. Nice pool."
Maneuvering challenges: Some campgrounds present challenges for larger RVs. Greg F. notes about Lake McMurtry West, "The road access to this campground is probably the worst that I have experienced. We are pulling a 34 foot fifth wheel and the slow speed required adds another 30 minutes to what should be a five minutes."
Hookup variations: Electrical and water connections differ between campsites. At Salt Plains State Park, Lisa M. states, "There are 30 and 50 amp spots and all the spots have water," making it suitable for various RV electrical requirements.