Foss State Park and surrounding camping locations sit on terrain that alternates between gently rolling hills, open plains and red rock formations in western Oklahoma. Elevation ranges from 1,650 to 1,900 feet across most campgrounds, creating variable wind patterns that frequently affect camping conditions. Summer temperatures typically reach 90-100°F while winter nights can drop below freezing, with high winds common year-round across most camping sites near Foss, Oklahoma.
What to do
Swimming at designated areas: Cedar Point Campground at Foss State Park provides access to lake swimming with marked areas. "The lake was great to swim in, there were lots of picnic tables," notes one camper at Elk City Lake Park, where water access is readily available for cooling off during summer months.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds around Foss Lake support both bank and boat fishing. "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. who visited Foss State Park Campground.
Frisbee golf: Several parks in the area maintain disc golf courses for visitors. A camper at Cedar Point Campground mentioned, "Has Frisbee Golf and a play ground. The play ground needs a bit of TLC," showing the recreational options available beyond water activities.
Walking trails: Nature trails with varying difficulty levels exist throughout the area. "There is a nice walk around the lake," notes Sue S. who stayed at Bobcat Creek RV Park, while Annie C. from Elk City Lake Park mentions, "there is a nice swim beach, great open fields for sport games, a nice playground, frisbee golf course."
What campers like
Air-conditioned facilities: Some campgrounds offer climate-controlled amenities during hot summer months. "Unfortunately, it was a very hot and humid day but we were pleasantly surprised by the air-conditioned bathrooms. I've been camping a lot, but that was a first!" shares Amy H. about her stay at Foss State Park.
Affordable rates: Many campgrounds provide economical options for overnight stays. "Can't believe how nice this place is for $12 a night. Right off interstate 40, it's easy for big rigs to get in and out of," reports James about Sayre City Park Campground, which offers water and electric hookups at budget rates.
Spacious campsites: Level, concrete sites with adequate spacing are commonly mentioned in reviews. "Sites are concrete and very roomy. A real jewel at a very reasonable price," writes Steve about Wanderlust Crossings RV Park, a highly-rated facility known for its modern amenities.
Quiet atmosphere: Despite proximity to highways, many campgrounds maintain peaceful environments. "Slightly remote which makes it nice and quiet. Good facilities and good parking for travel trailers - we had a 49 foot rig and the spots we picked worked out great," notes Tom R. about his experience at Foss State Park.
What you should know
Weather challenges: Wind conditions affect tent camping significantly in the region. "I don't know if it's an Oklahoma thing but the wind was crazy making tent camping a little rough. I'm not used to what're gnat like bug they have so plan accordingly," advises Anna M., who camped at Foss State Park.
Limited cell service: Coverage varies significantly between campgrounds and specific camping areas. "Cell service is very limited going in and out of no service," reports a camper at Foss State Park, while others mention adequate connectivity at parks closer to Interstate 40.
Shower availability varies: Some parks offer free showers while others require payment. "Plenty of places to just picnic for the day, camp for the night or stay a couple weeks. Showers at various campsites, you do have to pay but hey least their available," explains Stephanie W. about Elk City Lake Park.
Reservation systems: Many parks operate on first-come, first-served basis despite online information. "We called for a reservation and were told its first-come, first-served 'but there's always room'," shares Stephen B. about Sayre City Park, reflecting the relaxed approach common at smaller facilities in the area.
Tips for camping with families
Event-focused visits: Some parks host regular seasonal events worth planning around. "The park rangers are very friendly and accommodating. Also they do special events during the year like fireworks on the lake for the 4th of July, haunted trails and trick or treating for Halloween, some other events here and there year round," suggests Colton K. about Foss State Park.
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature play equipment for children. Wanderlust Crossings offers "a cute store where you check in and a nice fenced playground and dog run," according to Anna, making it suitable for families with both children and pets.
Safety considerations: Storms and severe weather can impact camping plans. A reviewer at Bobcat Creek RV Park mentioned, "There's a storm shelter on site too for those notorious Oklahoma storms," highlighting an important safety feature for family camping in Oklahoma's unpredictable weather patterns.
Food options: Some parks offer unexpected food service. "The owners have a store out in front of the park and she even cooks and he delivers to your door!!!" shares Dawn about Bobcat Creek RV Park, providing a convenient option for families who don't want to cook every meal.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Concrete pads with level surfaces are valued by RVers. "We stayed here during our Spring break. Sites are pull through and big enough to fit a 40' fifth wheel. Electric/water and sewer hook ups are available," recommends Janette M. about Foss Lake Campground.
Hookup accessibility: Water connections vary between campgrounds. "If you need water bring a short hose the water options are wide open or dripping," advises Anna M. about conditions at Buffalo Bend campground in Foss State Park.
Dump station locations: Not all parks with hookups have on-site dump stations. "Electric hookups, water and dump station. Wide open grassy sites that were easy to pull into. Couldn't have been more convenient," notes Kristina H. about her overnight stay at Sayre City Park.
Weather preparedness: RVers should secure awnings and exterior items due to high winds. "The wind was crazy making tent camping a little rough," mentions one camper, and this applies to RV awnings and outdoor setups as well, which can be damaged in sudden gusts common to the area.