Foss State Park in western Oklahoma spans nearly 1,750 acres along Foss Reservoir, offering equestrian-friendly camping with varying terrain. The park sits at an elevation of approximately 1,650 feet with a semi-arid climate that produces strong winds throughout much of the year. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 95Ā°F while winters can drop below freezing, creating distinct seasonal camping conditions for horse owners and general campers alike.
What to do
Lake recreation: Foss Lake provides a designated swimming area with ample room for various water activities. According to Colton K., "This campground offers an area sectioned off for swimmers. A lot of room is available for boating fun whether it be fishing, skiing, tubing, etc."
Holiday events: The park hosts special seasonal activities throughout the year that appeal to campers and day visitors. "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," notes a camper at Foss State Park Campground.
Frisbee golf course: The park maintains a disc golf course among its recreational options. Annie C. shares, "There is a nice swim beach, great open fields for sport games, a nice playground, frisbee golf course, and supposedly a small herd of bison behind the visitor center that you can watch come in to feed daily."
What campers like
Air-conditioned restrooms: Unlike many rustic horse camping facilities, Foss provides climate-controlled bathroom facilities in certain campground sections. Amy H. from Foss State Park Campground reports, "We were pleasantly surprised by the air-conditioned bathrooms. I've been camping a lot, but that was a first!"
Attentive camp hosts: Staff responsiveness receives consistent praise from visitors. "When we called the park to make a change, a very nice lady answered and took care of our issue. There are a lot of campgrounds that leave you to deal with an internet site...not here...they helped us make a change as they knew we were on the road traveling," shares Tom R.
Campground assistance: Rangers provide practical help when needed. Meg M. describes, "Our site didn't have a fire ring, so we had to ask, which was delayed in getting to us due to an accident on the lake, BUT when they did bring it down, the 'campsite parentals' and the conservation agent stayed with us and kept our camping site lit with their cart lights to help with us putting up our tents at dark."
What you should know
Wind conditions: The consistent high winds can create challenges for tent campers and horse owners. Anna M. mentions, "I don't know if it's an Oklahoma thing but the wind was crazy making tent camping a little rough."
Insect preparation: Biting gnats are prevalent throughout the day and night. "I'm not used to what're gnat like bug they have so plan accordingly they are attracted mostly to light but swarm both day and night. I wear a hat with a net so they don't bother me," advises a visitor at Water-Zoo Campground.
Water access variations: Water spigot access varies across the different campground areas. Jo A. notes, "Every tent site has a water spigot," but another camper points out, "If you need water bring a short hose the water options are wide open or dripping."
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife awareness: Local wildlife may visit campsites after dark, particularly in less developed areas. Anna M. shares, "We were visited in our sleep by raccoons trying to get in our tent."
Shower facilities: Shower availability varies by campground section, with some having privacy limitations. "The bathrooms have 2 shower stalls, one has a curtain and one has a low door so people can see in while you shower," notes a camper at Foss State Park.
Marina dining: The marina restaurant offers convenient meal options for families. Jo A. states, "The marina has a restaurant that has decent food and is reasonably priced."
Tips from RVers
Large rig accommodation: The campground accommodates substantial RVs with appropriate hookups. Janette M. reports, "Sites are pull through and big enough to fit a 40' fifth wheel. Electric/water and sewer hook ups are available as well as restrooms and showers."
Site selection: For equestrian camping with RVs near Foss, Oklahoma, site choices affect privacy and lake views. Annie C. observes, "I didn't feel like the RV sites were as on top of each other as they seem in other campgrounds I've been to."
Seasonal considerations: The park remains open year-round but experiences substantial temperature variations. Winter camping requires preparation for potential freezing conditions, while summer heat often exceeds 95Ā°F with limited shade in certain camping areas.
