Canton Lake provides several camping options near Hitchcock, Oklahoma, located in the central region of the state at approximately 1,615 feet elevation. The area features red sandstone bluffs and rolling plains with summer temperatures regularly reaching above 100°F. Water access varies significantly throughout the year with seasonal fluctuations affecting camping experiences at most sites.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Canton Lake offers strong fishing potential with crappie fishing being particularly productive. "Big Bend is a really nice campground with most sites on or overlooking the water. The large lake looks like a great place for boating activities," notes Terry P. at Big Bend Park.
Hiking trails: Red Rock Canyon Adventure Park features numerous trails with varying difficulty levels. "There are many miles to hike and the scenery and history is AMAZING! After a day of hiking we love to go wade in the springs. Nice and refreshing," writes Nohemy T. about her experience at Red Rock Canyon Adventure Park.
Unique features: Rock climbing opportunities exist for various skill levels at Red Rock Canyon. "The box canyon is set for climbing or repelling, no matter what your experience level. I am a little old lady in my 60's and had the opportunity to climb one of the smaller bluff walls (about 10' high)," shares Lyn B.
What campers like
Shade availability: Many sites provide relief from the intense Oklahoma sun. "This park is nestled in the red rock hills of close north central Oklahoma with its curved and tree-filled landscape hiding awaiting adventures," reports Territory ROUTE66 R. at Roman Nose State Park.
Access to cooling water: Natural springs offer respite from heat. "After a day of hiking we love to go wade in the springs. Nice and refreshing," explains Nohemy T. about Red Rock Canyon Adventure Park.
Private camping spots: Big Bend Park offers well-spaced sites with good views. "Sites are not too close and are at an angle, which makes it more private," explains N L. at Big Bend Park. The park's design places campsites at different elevations, creating better spacing.
What you should know
Winter camping options: Some campgrounds offer free off-season camping. "A wonderful campground that is free in the winter with no amenities available at that time. I spent about a week here at the beginning of February and didn't see anyone else the entire time," reports Rebecca L. about Big Bend Park.
RV site spacing: Site sizes and spacing vary dramatically between campgrounds. Territory Route 66 offers "20' x 70' level slips" according to Territory ROUTE66 R., while others provide much tighter quarters.
Canyon access caution: Red Rock Canyon requires navigating steep roads. "The road is steep and winding. (That was an understatement) As we traveled the main road into the park, we literally dropped into another world," warns Lyn B.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Multiple campgrounds offer activities beyond just camping. At El Reno West KOA, "Pool, pedal carts, jumping pillow, and a playground for the kids!" notes Brittany J.
Wildlife viewing: Children can observe diverse wildlife at several locations. "Full of wildlife, rabbits, deer, squirrels and armadillos abound," reports Lyn B. at Red Rock Canyon Adventure Park.
Swimming options: Several locations offer swimming opportunities beyond natural waters. "Fishing, hiking, paddleboard, and a pool. The lake isn't for swimming, just fishing," explains Dana H. about Roman Nose State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site access considerations: Low-hanging obstacles can create issues. "Be careful of low hanging branches if you have a taller RV," warns Brian F. about Roman Nose State Park.
Concrete pad availability: Several campgrounds offer concrete pads for easier leveling. At Wanderlust Crossings RV Park, "The sites are huge and well spaced out. The landscaping is freshly maintained," according to Drew S. who calls it "the absolute nicest one I've seen."
Overnight stopping points: The area offers good options for RVers passing through on I-40. "Super friendly, right off the highway, clean and shady spots. It is still very hot so the shade is key!" notes Rowan B. about El Reno West KOA.
