Heyburn Lake sits at an elevation of 731 feet in northeastern Oklahoma, with Keystone Lake and Lake Sahoma nearby within a 15-mile radius. The lake offers year-round pet-friendly camping options with water levels that fluctuate seasonally. Campgrounds around Heyburn Lake remain open during various portions of the year, with many sites closing water hookups after October while maintaining electrical service through winter months.
What to do
Horseback riding trails: The trail system near Sheppard Point provides excellent options for equestrians. "Really enjoyed this camp ground. It was very clean and well maintained. The beach was great and there are some Really nice trails for hiking or horseback riding," notes Jacinda V.
Kayaking on calm waters: Keystone Lake offers paddling opportunities with minimal boat traffic. "We love this little lake bc the swimming area rarely has people there and it's a nice long sandy beach. We go kayaking and fishing here too! There aren't very many boats so there is rarely ever a wake to deal with," says Jennifer D. from Heyburn Park.
Wildlife observation: While exploring the lake by boat, visitors might spot native wildlife including bald eagles. A camper at Heyburn Park shares, "The lake was nice for kayaking. We actually saw a pair of bald eagles and noodlers while out kayaking!"
What campers like
Spacious waterfront sites: Many campgrounds offer direct water access for pets and campers. "Get a spot right on the water. The facility is beautiful. Quiet cute little place," reports Todd S. who camped at Heyburn Park.
Sandy swimming beaches: The swim areas around the lake feature clean, sandy shores. At Appalachia Bay, campers enjoy "swimming and fishing, the camping was great too... A great place for people that have atvs," according to Lana T.
Quieter camping experience: Compared to busier Oklahoma lakes, Heyburn and surrounding areas offer more solitude. "The park was mostly empty for our stay late October/early November... The area is really pretty and the spots by the water have an amazing view," writes Brittany M. about her stay at Sheppard Point.
What you should know
Road conditions vary: Some campgrounds have improved their infrastructure recently. At Heyburn Park, a camper notes, "I believe the roads have been fixed since the other review mentioned them, it's not that bad any more."
Unlevel campsites: Be prepared with leveling blocks at certain campgrounds. One camper at Sheppard Point reported, "My RV spot is so unlevel it's almost unusable. Front to back there is 2 feet in elevation difference and a foot from side to side."
Seasonal limitations: Water hookups typically shut down in late October. "Season ends 10/26-no water but still has electricity. Host was helpful. Plenty of large wooded spots," shares Jennifer M. from Heyburn Park.
Bathroom facilities vary: Some campgrounds have minimal facilities. "This lake has a great swim beach. The showers were clean and free," reports a camper at Sheppard Point, while others note bathrooms can be basic.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds for kids: Lake Sahoma has amenities for children. "Clean and beautiful lake. I take my kids there every summer for camping and fishing," shares Jose A.
Swimming beach access: Several dog-friendly campgrounds near Heyburn Lake include beach areas. At Heyburn Park, one camper mentions, "Fun playground for the kids. Surrounded by water. Clean bathrooms."
Group pavilion options: For larger family gatherings, some campgrounds offer reservable shelters. A visitor to Osage Point - New Mannford Ramp shares, "Camped at the group pavilion in April. Loved the pavilion. Bathroom facilities were nearby within walking distance."
Local wildlife viewing: Children can enjoy spotting native species from safe distances. "We spent four nights here in the heat of the summer. The lake has a great swimming beach area - this seems to be a fishing lake, only a few jet skis were out besides fishing boats," writes Megan B. about Sheppard Point.
Tips from RVers
Hookup placement challenges: Some RV sites have poorly positioned utilities. "Each campsite has a fire ring, picnic table, and charcoal grill which is nice," notes one camper, while another mentions "the hook ups are on the wrong side" at certain sites.
Winter camping options: RVers can find year-round opportunities with electrical hookups. "We were here in early March. There was no water hook up but they did have 30 amp. Very quiet as we were the only ones there," shares Jill W. about Sheppard Point.
Grocery access: Stock up before arrival as amenities are limited. The closest full shopping is "about 10 miles from Bristow, which has a nice Walmarts for getting things you might need," according to Melanie W. who stayed at a dog-friendly campground at Heyburn Lake.
