Red Rock Canyon Adventure Park features dramatic sandstone walls rising from otherwise flat plains near Fort Cobb, Oklahoma. The canyon creates a unique microclimate with temperatures typically 5-8°F cooler than surrounding areas during summer months. Most campsites sit within the protection of the canyon walls, providing natural shade and wind protection for tent campers and RVers alike.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Ellsworth's Edgewater Park offers fishing access about 20 miles from Fort Cobb. "Not a terrible mini spots of quality and there are permits involved which prices have changed since I went the water level is not as high as it was," notes John S.
Wildlife viewing: At Camp Doris, visitors can observe free-ranging bison and longhorn cattle. "Deer & turkey were odten strolling thru our campsite, undaunted by our presence," reports Gary P. The park features numerous trails to see additional wildlife.
Canyon climbing: Red Rock Canyon's sandstone walls provide climbing routes for various skill levels. "The box canyon is set for climbing or repelling, no matter what your experience level. I am a little old lady in my 60's and had the opportunity to climb one of the smaller bluff walls (about 10' high) and was absolutely awed by the scenery once I topped the wall," shares Lyn B.
Lake activities: Lake Elmer Thomas Recreation Area offers water recreation options. "A nice beach and cordoned swim area, complete with restrooms and shower house(11a-7p)…lifeguards, sand volleyball court, watersport rentals: paddle boards, canoes, kayaks, pontoon boat," explains Dave V.
What campers like
Unique terrain: The sudden change in landscape surprises many first-time visitors to Red Rock Canyon Adventure Park. "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'," says Cheryl M.
Quiet environment: Pecan Grove RV Resort provides a peaceful setting despite its highway proximity. "We stayed for 8 months & it has been our favorite campground to date! It's quiet, clean, friendly & most importantly safe!" reports Katelyn A.
Storm shelter access: Glamping close to Fort Cobb, Oklahoma includes safety considerations. "Gina & Glen are so sweet- they take very good care of the campground & are constantly doing more to improve it! Propane on site, wifi, dog run, showers/bathrooms, laundry, & storm shelter," adds Katelyn A. about Pecan Grove RV Resort.
Staff assistance: Campground hosts often make the difference. "The staff that I spoke to was very helpful, and so friendly. She explained everything in the park, beautiful areas, and which sites had FHU. Very clean park, with great trails. Very reasonable pricing as well," Phil D. shares about Red Rock Canyon.
What you should know
Reservation systems vary: Some sites require advance booking while others operate differently. At Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, "Staff super chill, lots of sites. Beautiful views of the lake and mountains - if you get a good spot. No reservations, first come first serve. Ice and firewood available to purchase on site," reports Lauren M.
Limited water access: Water quality concerns affect some campgrounds. "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. Bring in your own water, the closest store is at least 30 mins away," warns Rebecca A.
Weekend crowding: Popular sites fill quickly during peak times. "Weekends at WMWR (Wichita Mountains Wildife Refuge) are very popular beginning early in the camping season making it difficult to find open spots by Friday evening. But that doesn't keep people from trying late into the night," notes Brad N.
Military proximity: Some luxury glamping near Fort Cobb sits on military land. "The campground is positioned along the northern side of the Artillery range. Yes, you will see and hear C-Ram's lighting up the sky randomly during the day and night hours, as well as other ordinance," explains Dave V. about Lake Elmer Thomas.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: El Reno West KOA offers numerous activities for children. "Pool, pedal carts, jumping pillow, and a playground for the kids! Super friendly staff. If you need full hook ups, those are basically a parking lot. However, there's some really nice shaded electric/water sites for RVs and tent sites," describes Brittany J.
Animal encounters: Unique glamping options near Fort Cobb include animal interactions. At Lazy H Alpaca Ranch, visitors can "pet the Alpacas and the 3 Great Pyrenees kept us company," according to Patty S.
Seasonal considerations: Summer heat affects camping comfort. "Camped here in June and the canyon provided a nice break from the heat. Worth the stop," notes Nate C. about Red Rock Canyon. Canyon campgrounds often provide natural cooling.
Swimming options: Multiple water recreation facilities exist. "They have little cabins that have beautiful, shaded outside areas (fire pits, porch swings, etc) and they're cheap to rent. We're not typically 'KOA' type campers, but we really enjoy this place," adds Brittany J. about El Reno West KOA.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Full service sites are limited at some parks. "So pleased with this campground. Canyon is beautiful, grounds well maintained, couldn't be more pleased with the staff. Tons of hiking. Will absolutely recommend this place to anyone! Only (3) three full hook up spots so book in advance!" advises Nick & Allyssa S. about Red Rock Canyon.
Site spacing: RV campgrounds vary in privacy levels. "For being a RV park, the spaces were not right on top of each other like some parks are. This park also looks to have several full-time or seasonal residents," notes Lisa M. about Pecan Grove RV Resort.
Access challenges: Some campgrounds have difficult entry roads. "As we traveled the main road into the park, we literally dropped into another world. Surrounded on all sides by red sandstone bluffs, this campground has both primitive and RV camping," explains Lyn B. about navigating into Red Rock Canyon.
Site selection: Specific areas within campgrounds offer better experiences. "If possible I recommend the spots in back. 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," Kelly B. advises about El Reno West KOA.