Foss, Oklahoma sits at an elevation of approximately 1,600 feet above sea level in western Oklahoma's rolling plains. The area experiences hot summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90Ā°F and mild winters, with occasional cold snaps dropping below freezing. Wind is a constant factor when camping near Foss, particularly in spring and early summer, making proper tent staking essential.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Foss Lake offers good fishing conditions throughout the year. At Foss State Park Campground, "a lot of room is available for boating fun wether it be fishing, skiing, tubing, etc." according to Colton K. The lake supports multiple fish species and has designated areas for different water activities.
Disc golf course: The park maintains a complete disc golf course for visitors. Jo A. notes that while staying at Foss State Park, they "heard of a great bike trail but did not have time to find" all the recreational facilities, including the disc golf course that winds through the property.
Swimming beach: A designated swimming area provides safer water recreation options. "This campground offers an area sectioned off for swimmers," mentions Colton K., making it suitable for families with younger children who prefer controlled swimming environments away from boat traffic.
Seasonal events: The park hosts special events throughout the year. Colton K. explains that "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."
What campers like
Air-conditioned restrooms: Several campgrounds offer unexpected comfort amenities. Amy H. was pleasantly surprised at Cedar Point Campground when she discovered "air-conditioned bathrooms. I've been camping a lot, but that was a first!" This feature proves especially valuable during Oklahoma's hot summer months.
Spacious camping areas: The RV sites throughout the region tend to be generously sized. At Cedar Point, James L. found "nice with many pull thru level sites" and "concrete patio areas with newer picnic tables and nice fire pits." The spacing between sites allows for privacy while maintaining a community feel.
Lake views: Many campsites offer direct water views. Laurianne H. describes her experience at Cedar Point: "We stayed in site 11 in the Cedar Point RV loop. Lovely site overlooking Foss Lake. Very quiet area." These lakeside sites fill quickly during peak season.
Helpful staff: Park rangers and campground hosts receive consistently positive reviews. At Wanderlust Crossings RV Park in nearby Weatherford, campers appreciate the service level. As Tom R. noted about Foss State Park staff, "When we called to park to make a change, a very nice lady answered and took care of our issue... they helped us make a change as they new we were on the road traveling."
What you should know
Weather challenges: Oklahoma's climate affects camping conditions. Anna M. reports from Elk City-Clinton KOA: "I don't know if it's an Oklahoma thing but the wind was crazy making tent camping a little rough." Proper equipment for wind protection is essential.
Insects: Prepare for seasonal bugs, especially in warmer months. Anna M. warns, "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."
Wildlife encounters: Local wildlife may visit campsites. Anna M. notes, "We were visited in our sleep by raccoons trying to get in our tent." Proper food storage is necessary to minimize unwanted animal interactions.
Shower facilities: Shower availability and conditions vary by campground. At Buffalo Bend in Foss State Park, Anna M. observes, "The bathrooms have 2 shower stalls, one has a curtain and one has a low door so people can see in while you shower." Some campgrounds charge for showers, as Stephanie W. mentions: "showers at various campsites, you do have to pay but hey least their available."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple camping areas feature playground facilities for children. At Elk City Lake Park, there are "playgrounds, a dock, and a nice trail around the lake," according to Jeremy H., providing several activity options for families with children of different ages.
Water recreation: The Water-Zoo indoor water park in Clinton makes a good backup plan during inclement weather. A camper at Water-Zoo Campground explains: "Our plan: spend a few days at the campground and let our 12 yo son enjoy the Water Zoo... The campground is quiet besides the highway noise which is actually not that bad."
Camping assistance: Staff often help with setup when needed. Meg M. recalls, "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."
Pet-friendly options: For families traveling with animals, most campgrounds in the area accommodate pets. At Elk City-Clinton KOA, Kerry T. noted, "The facility has lots of space for your pets which is nice," making it suitable for pet-friendly camping near Foss.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose sites based on your specific needs and preferences. At Sayre City Park Campground, Kimberly Y. describes, "Sites are long pull throughs with 50 amp electric and water. A dump station is located on the road outside the park."
Hookup variations: Water connections may require additional equipment. Anna M. notes at Foss State Park, "If you need water bring a short hose the water options are wide open or dripping." This practical advice helps RVers prepare properly for their stay.
Cell service: Connectivity varies throughout the area. Anna M. reports, "Cell service is very limited going in and out of no service" at Buffalo Bend campground, while Simon S. found better connectivity at other parks, noting "Cellular good plus free wifi up to 800mb but can upgrade for $5."
Highway proximity: Several campgrounds are conveniently located near major routes. Annie C. observes that Foss State Park "is not too far off Hwy 40/Route 66, so it is a nice place to camp if you are travelling Old 66." This makes these locations practical for travelers seeking pet-friendly camping near Foss on cross-country trips.
