Camping areas near Fairview, Oklahoma range from lakeside sites to secluded riverside campgrounds within short driving distances. The region experiences temperature extremes with summer highs frequently reaching 90-100°F and winter lows dropping below freezing. Several state parks and Corps of Engineers facilities offer diverse camping options with varying levels of amenities and seasonal availability throughout northern Oklahoma.
What to do
Crystal digging at Salt Plains: From April through mid-October, visitors can dig for hourglass selenite crystals at Salt Plains State Park Campground. "You can dig for crystals. Bring your own shovel and start digging. After a foot or two the hole will begin to fill with water. You then use the water to wash away the dirt and reveal the crystals," shares Richard.
Hiking trails: Explore the natural terrain with varied difficulty levels at Roman Nose State Park. "The Spring Loop Trail with the Spring Pavilion & the old OCC Pool is a must & so is the Inspiration Point Trail. Inspiration Point Trail is a moderate trail with some steep grades," explains Leslie N.
Water activities: Fishing opportunities abound at lakes and rivers throughout the region. "Catfish are abundant and LARGE. Lake is fairly shallow," notes Dana H. about Salt Plains Lake. Multiple water access points allow for boating, paddling, and shoreline fishing depending on the facility.
What campers like
Covered picnic areas: Many sites include sheltered tables for comfortable outdoor dining regardless of weather conditions. "Very nice campground with most sites on or overlooking the water. The sites are not too close and are at an angle, which makes it more private," explains N L. about Big Bend Park.
Lakeside views: Campers appreciate waterfront sites available at several facilities. "Big Bend is a really nice campground with most sites on or overlooking the water. We were in site A10 which was a nice site overlooking the lake with shade in evening, but sunny most of the day," Terry P. shares about the Canton area campground.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained restrooms and showers are highlighted in reviews. "Very friendly owner. Worked with us on our arrival. We fit in a super C (Semi truck) 41ft long x 13.6 height with flat tow," reports Kat about Shirley's Shine Car Wash and RV Park.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: While some RV campgrounds near Fairview, Oklahoma operate year-round, others have limited seasons. "This state park is really cool. There is a huge salt plain where you can dig for crystals. Crystal digging is only available from April 1 to October 15 due to the area being a migration stop for whooping cranes," Richard explains.
Pet policies: Rules regarding animals differ between facilities. "Very friendly owner. Worked with us on our arrival. Verizon cell service excellent. Quiet. Trash available. No tables. Would stay here again," notes Kat about Shirley's RV Park which permits pets.
Weather considerations: Summer heat requires preparation. "The park has a very nice, challenging disc golf course beside the campground. We were here on a Saturday night in mid-August and the campground was only partially full," shares Terry P. about Big Bend Park.
Reservation requirements: Some campgrounds require advance booking. "Reservations must be made through Reserve America," Donna H. mentions about Salt Plains State Park, while other facilities operate on first-come, first-served basis.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Some campgrounds offer dedicated child-friendly areas. "This is a beautiful area with plenty to offer. The golf course is challenging and my 11 year old was free," notes Brian F. about Roman Nose State Park.
Swimming options: "Miniature golf, paddle boats, hiking trails, golf course and pool. There is a little store and restaurant in the park. You can even rent a teepee for the night," Richard adds about Roman Nose's family amenities.
Educational opportunities: "This state park is really cool. There is a huge salt plain where you can dig for crystals. Bring your own shovel and start digging. It's a great activity for kids," Richard recommends, noting the hands-on learning experience.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose the best spot for your vehicle size and preferences. "Roomy sites with water and electric hookups. Very laid back and relaxing. Roomy. Well up kept. Good showers and restrooms," Francis W. mentions about Big Bend Park.
Hookup availability: RV campgrounds near Fairview offer varying levels of connections. "Little RV park, has what you need with electric, water and sewer hookups. Walking distance to the restaurant," Heather K. says about Cherokee City RV Park.
Accessibility considerations: "Beautiful spot on lake. All spots look great. Easy in and out. Dump site on outside of facility," John R. advises about Big Bend Park, highlighting the practical layout that makes navigation simpler for large rigs.
Cellular connectivity: "Verizon cell service excellent," Kat notes about Shirley's RV Park, an important consideration for travelers needing to stay connected while camping.
