Red Rock Canyon Adventure Park sits in a distinctive box canyon with striking red sandstone bluffs that drop below the surrounding plains. The canyon walls rise 80-100 feet above the canyon floor, creating a protected microclimate that shields campers from Oklahoma's prairie winds. This unique geological feature contains natural springs and small waterfalls that feed the vegetation along the canyon floor, supporting wildlife including rabbits, deer, squirrels, and armadillos.
What to do
Trail hiking with elevation changes: The Inspiration Point Trail at Roman Nose State Park offers moderate hiking with some steep grades. "Trails led off in all directions and the view from on top of the bluff was extraordinary. I traversed several trails on the top of the bluff and am still in awe at the view," notes Lyn B. The Spring Loop Trail with the Spring Pavilion is also recommended.
Fishing for specific catches: Fort Cobb Lake provides excellent fishing opportunities with distinct seasonal patterns. "During the Fall and Winter months the lake provides great Trout Fishing that is stocked every 2 weeks," shares William A. about Roman Nose State Park. The small fishing ponds at various campgrounds contain crappie and other warm-water species.
Water recreation options: Beyond basic swimming, several parks offer expanded water activities. "The park contains a small fishing lake and a paved hiking trail with handicap access," mentions Lyn B. about Red Rock Canyon. At Foss State Park, "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," says Colton K.
Historical exploration: The region contains significant historical sites. At Territory Route 66 RV Park & Campgrounds, you can experience "Historic Route 66 with easy off and on Historic Route 66 and I-40," while being "Within 5 miles of restaurants, laundromat, groceries, fuel, historic sites, tourist attractions."
What campers like
Climate-controlled facilities: Unlike many rustic campgrounds, several parks offer air conditioning in common areas. At Foss State Park Campground, Amy H. mentions, "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!"
Canyon-based protection: The terrain creates natural shelter from Oklahoma's notoriously windy conditions. "It's interesting upon driving across flat plains and arriving at a canyon in the middle of it all!" explains Cheryl M. about Red Rock Canyon. Dana H. adds about Roman Nose: "The map said it was there, but we couldn't see it. That's because it's in a canyon. Gorgeous valley with abundant forest."
Dog friendly campgrounds near Hinton: Most campgrounds welcome pets with dedicated exercise areas. At Wanderlust Crossings RV Park, Drew S. notes, "The sites are huge and well spaced out. The landscaping is freshly maintained," while Sommer J. adds, "Has dog park, basketball court, playground and laundry facilities."
Full hookup availability: Territory Route 66 RV Park provides "Full hookups, easy in and out of park, literally on Route 66 with easy off and on Historic Route 66 and I-40; 20' x 70' level slips." Debbie J. confirms, "There are several long term sites, with very nice, well kept RV's. The short term sites are out in the open and all but one are large pull throughs."
What you should know
Seasonal bug concerns: Insects can be problematic during warmer months, requiring preparation. "Bugs were bad, thermacell worked great for the mosquitoes. Lots of flies," reports Cheryl M. about Red Rock Canyon. At Lake El Reno RV Park, travelers should note that bathrooms "are closed at night. Bathrooms and showers within campground, but are closed at night," according to Susan B.
Shower payment systems: Many Oklahoma state parks require payment for showers. Jo A. explains at Foss State Park, "Rv sites have great bath houses with toilets, a paved parking lot, and the showers are coin operated." Similarly, William A. notes about Roman Nose, "bring quarters for the hot showers."
Limited tent facilities: The amenities for tent campers can differ significantly from RV areas. Jo A. notes, "Tent campers have unpaved roads along with a permanent building for the toilet provided (basically a huge hole under the toilet like a porta potty and no showers). However, every tent site has a water spigot."
Overnight noise factors: Several dog friendly campgrounds near Hinton experience noise issues. Kathy K. warns about Red Rock Canyon: "It has day use visitors, and unfortunately the ones with the loud music next to my spot did not leave until close to midnight. It is a small canyon so noise travels very well."
Tips for camping with families
Playground amenities: El Reno West KOA offers extensive children's facilities. Sarah S. reports, "Paved roads were great for bike riding, beautiful lake along the back side of the grounds, nice large dog run, clean and plenty of machines in the laundry area, super cool playground with outdoor workout equipment too."
Seasonal events for kids: Certain parks host family-oriented activities throughout the year. Colton K. shares that Foss State Park Rangers "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."
Kid-friendly water areas: Look for designated swimming zones with gradual entry. Brittany J. recommends El Reno West KOA: "Pool, pedal carts, jumping pillow, and a playground for the kids! Super friendly staff." For water activities, Kassi S. notes about Fort Cobb's Whites Catfish Cove campground: "Walking distance to lake beach swim area and playground directly across from this site (great if you have kids)."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many children enjoy animal sightings at pet friendly campgrounds. Sarah S. mentions, "Plus the kids got a big kick out of the two Buffalo on the grounds!" at El Reno West KOA. Similarly, Myron C. notes, "We were fascinated by the long mural, the teepee, and the bison in the pen."
