Best Campgrounds near Kenton, OK
Kenton, Oklahoma serves as a gateway to diverse camping experiences in the Oklahoma panhandle, with Black Mesa State Park Campground offering the most developed facilities in the immediate area. Located in Oklahoma's highest elevation region, this state park provides both tent and RV sites with electric hookups, water, and sanitary facilities. The surrounding region includes free dispersed camping options like Felt Picnic Area, which accommodates overnight stays with basic amenities including pit toilets and picnic tables. Campers seeking more developed facilities can find them at Clayton Lake State Park approximately 30 miles away in neighboring New Mexico, which offers cabin accommodations alongside traditional camping options.
Road conditions and seasonal considerations significantly impact camping experiences in this remote region. "As Oklahoma's highest point of elevation, Black Mesa is a bucket list destination for any Okie. Well maintained campgrounds, restrooms, and amenities. Very little light pollution, so the starscapes are always beautiful," notes one visitor. The area experiences extreme temperature variations, with hot summers and cold winters. Most campgrounds remain open year-round, though winter camping requires additional preparation. Cell service varies throughout the region, with limited coverage at Black Mesa State Park and stronger signals at some of the RV parks. The 10-mile access road to Clayton Lake State Park has been described by campers as being in "horrible condition" with numerous sharp turns.
The night sky viewing opportunities rank among the most frequently mentioned highlights in camper reviews. The remote location creates ideal stargazing conditions due to minimal light pollution. Wildlife sightings are common, with visitors reporting encounters with pronghorn, mule deer, and various bird species. One camper shared that "shortly before arrival from the east the grass turns golden and you begin to see varieties of cactus and yucca. Upon entering the park we were greeted by a small herd of pronghorn deer bouncing along the road." Dinosaur tracks at Clayton Lake State Park provide an additional attraction beyond camping. Most campgrounds in the region offer moderate spacing between sites, though privacy varies significantly between developed and dispersed options. Weekends typically see higher occupancy rates, especially during summer months.
