Salt Plains State Park Campground serves as the primary camping destination near Jet, Oklahoma, featuring several distinct camping areas spread across the region's unique salt flats ecosystem. Located at approximately 1,150 feet elevation in northwestern Oklahoma, this area contains the largest saline flats in the central Great Plains. Summer temperatures typically reach 90-100°F with nighttime lows in the 70s, while winter camping can be challenging with temperatures dropping into the 20s and strong prairie winds.
What to do
Crystal digging: April to October: Visit the designated crystal digging area at Salt Plains State Park Campground where visitors can search for hourglass-shaped selenite crystals. "The Great Salt Plains is great place to go for an adventure. You could spend hours just digging up the crystals on the salt plains," notes Alyn M. The site is closed from October 15 to April 1 for whooping crane migration.
Fishing: Year-round: Multiple spots along the river and lake offer good fishing opportunities. "Catfish are abundant and LARGE. Lake is fairly shallow," reports Dana H. at Salt Plains State Park. Big Bend Park offers additional options with "some of the best Walleye and Striper fishing around," according to Kelly B.
Hiking: Moderate terrain: The park features several hiking trails with varied terrain. "Hiking was awesome. Views from top of the spillway are unbelievable," writes Korina D. about Salt Plains State Park. Most trails are under 3 miles in length and rated easy to moderate difficulty.
Birdwatching: Peak migration seasons: The Salt Plains area serves as a critical migratory stopover. "Great hiking and great birdwatching," reports Lisa M. The salt flats and refuge areas attract numerous species including whooping cranes, pelicans, and shorebirds.
What campers like
Riverside camping spots: River Road Campground within Salt Plains State Park receives high marks for its location. "Several spots are butted up right against the river with lots of shade trees," writes Lisa M. These sites offer 30 and 50 amp hookups with water access.
Peaceful atmosphere: Many campers note the quiet environment. "I have to say this is the quietest lake I've ever been to. Each time, even during the summer season," Dana H. shares about Salt Plains State Park. Mike D. notes about Salt River Road: "No cell service around the park at all. No over the air tv. Great place to bring your kids if you want them to put the phones down."
Clean facilities: The park maintains well-kept restrooms and shower facilities. "Restrooms near campsites are very clean. Showers are new and nice," reports Korina D. about Salt Plains State Park. Site maintenance receives consistent positive feedback across reviews.
Lake views: Sandy Beach offers waterfront camping with family-friendly swimming areas. "The water is shallow forever so you don't have to worry much about little ones playing," notes Jennifer D. Many sites throughout the area provide direct lake or river views.
What you should know
Cell service variability: Coverage differs by carrier throughout the area. "Verizon service works good throughout the park. Two years ago when I visited I was using T-Mobile, and it hardly work at all," shares Korina D. AT&T typically provides reliable coverage, while T-Mobile is spotty.
Reservation systems: Most established campgrounds require advance booking. At Salt Plains State Park, "Reservations must be made through Reserve America," notes Donna H. Some smaller areas like Cherokee City RV Park offer on-site registration but fill quickly during peak season.
Weather considerations: The region experiences extreme temperature variations. "It can get hot and windy so bring water and sunscreen," advises Richard about crystal digging at Salt Plains. The salt plains offer minimal shade, while river camping areas provide more tree cover.
Airport noise: Occasional aircraft activity occurs from nearby military facilities. "The only distraction was the morning we left, when several small planes made practice landings and takeoffs at the nearby Jet Airport. They were so noisy when they flew over the campground and river," reports Donna H.
Tips for camping with families
Crystal digging preparation: Bring proper equipment for selenite crystal hunting. "Take some metal shovels and metal hand shovels (the little plastic ones break) take lots of water, baby wipes and towels. You'll also want to take egg cartons bc the crystals are soft when you dig them up," recommends Jennifer D. from Sandy Beach.
Swimming options: The shallow lake waters provide safe swimming for children. "We tent camped and had a good time. The water is shallow forever so you don't have to worry much about little ones playing," notes Jennifer D. Shirley's Shine Car Wash and RV Park offers alternative accommodations with shower facilities when kids need to clean up after salt flat activities.
Playground access: Several camping areas include playgrounds. "Showers and flushing toilets and a playground are nearby," mentions Lisa M. about River Road Campground at Salt Plains State Park. Most family-oriented sites cluster in the main campground areas rather than dispersed locations.
Digital detox opportunity: Limited connectivity makes this area ideal for family bonding. "No cell service around the park at all. Great place to bring your kids if you want them to put the phones down and spend quality time with you," advises Mike D.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Different camping loops offer varied experiences. "Site spacing is good. Some sites in the more improved locations highlighting the shoreline of the Arkansas River while others overlook the lake from beyond the spillway," notes a reviewer. Most RV-friendly sites include 30/50 amp service and water hookups.
Hookup availability: Water and electric connections vary by location. "Each r.v. site has a spigot and shore power. Some are 50 amp and others are 30 all with 15," reports Dana H. about Big Bend Park. Full hookups with sewer connections are limited primarily to private RV parks near Jet.
Rig size considerations: Most sites accommodate medium-sized RVs. "We fit in a super C (Semi truck) 41ft long x 13.6 height with flat tow," reports Kat at Shirley's RV Park. Check individual campground restrictions as some areas have limited clearance or site lengths.
Dump station access: On-site dump stations are available at select locations. "Dump site on outside of facility," notes John R. about Big Bend Park. Many smaller campgrounds lack this amenity, requiring planning for longer stays.
