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.
"As Oklahoma's highest point of elevation, Black Mesa is a bucket list destination for any Okie. Well maintained campgrounds, restrooms, and amenities."
"Black Mesa State Park in the panhandle of Oklahoma. Farthest point you can go in the panhandle and it borders Colorado and New Mexico. It’s the only part of Oklahoma that’s on Mountain Time."
$15 - $45 / night
"We were driving through to Oklahoma City from Carson National Forest and decided to pitstop here along the way. This was a really wonderful park with very nice amenities."
"Van Camper perspective: Extra cool campsites with many in lightly wooded areas or tucked within boulders, or lakeside. Group sites available also."
"We have used this location twice now and we will return. You may stay one night and you will find a pit toilet, trash containers, picnic table, grill, fire ring."
"A big parking lot next to a grassy treed picnic area. Toilets, picnic tables and a fire pit are available. Free one-night camping. Good place to stop while traveling."
"30 a night for a quiet RV park right off the highway. Drop box for cash or check only. There is a bathroom with a shower inside the small building with the drop box on the outside."
$40 - $44 / night
"so we extended our stay a few extra days for some R&R ....the park is kind of out in the middle nowhere in route to southeastern Colorado..it's a quiet campground in itself , there is a train close by"
"I needed a place to stay for a long drive through the area. Coyote Keith's is a clean, efficient, and convenient stop in the area. "
"This is a bare bones campground but was a good, quiet stop on our drive. There are composting toilets, trash cans, picnic tables, and bbqs. Clean and just what we needed"
"Campground close to Highway near schools. Bathhouse had hot showers. Also had Wi-Fi. $31 for 30 amp hookup. Site was level did not unhook."
GuideThis is another really cool place. I am here in January and have the place entirely to myself. The dinosaur tracks and nature trail are both worth seeing. I was also fortunate enough to see two bald eagles. Very cool. Bring cash or check for payment in the off season.
Ranger1 night limit, has everything you need for a quick stay, and it is free. Fire pits, grills, picnic tables, toilet, parking, flat grass...
TravelerDark skys location. A few hikes but not much in the park. They have wyfi by the hq & store. T-Mobile coverage was slotty i the area.
TravelerClean ,flat parking for all. Well kept. Pit toilets. Great for overnoc passing through
GuideI needed a place to stay for a long drive through the area. Coyote Keith's is a clean, efficient, and convenient stop in the area. Online booking is easy, the cost is reasonable given the fact they have full hook-ups, which I did not use because I pulled in late and left early. It's a short distance away from Clayton, and you will hear the traffic, but that really does not bother me. The website and e-mail communication were excellent.
ScoutGreat spot to boondock for the night
GuideI came to this area to summit the high point of Oklahoma. This is a very well kept place with clean bathrooms and showers. There is a mix of tent and RV sites.
TravelerGreat spot for a one night stay. Ground is flat making it easy for tent campers. Does have a bathroom area. Did hear farm equipment throughout the night but it wasn’t drowning the nightlife noise. Got the experience of deer bedding next to my site.
GuideThis rest stop was exactly what we needed: simple, safe, and quiet for an overnight stay. The restroom was clean and well-maintained. There's picnic tables for a quick bite. If you're looking for a straightforward, clean, and safe spot to break up your Texas journey, this spot works.
Black Mesa State Park Campground anchors the camping experience near Kenton, Oklahoma. The campground sits among cottonwood trees that provide moderate shade during hot summer days. Temperatures in this region can reach over 100°F in July and August, making early morning and evening the optimal times for outdoor activities. Seasonal weather patterns significantly affect camping conditions, with spring bringing higher winds and fall offering milder temperatures.
Hiking trails access: At Black Mesa State Park Campground, visitors can explore multiple trails. "The park itself has some nice options and amenities. Take a drive north and view the beautiful scenery including the Black Mesa site. There's also a dark sky viewing area above the campground," notes Gonzo A.
Bird watching opportunities: Bird watching is particularly rewarding at Black Mesa. "Cottonwood trees surround the RV pad sites. Walk along the river trail is filled with more bird varieties," reports Ursula. Multiple species can be spotted throughout the day, especially during spring migration.
Visit dinosaur tracks: Clayton Lake State Park preserves ancient dinosaur tracks. "The main attraction is the dinosaur tracks, uncovered when topsoil was removed to build the dam. That caused a lake to form and some trees that were along the banks are now visible standing in the lake," explains Judy B.
Secluded location: The remote setting of Felt Picnic Area provides a quiet camping experience. "Wonderful little pull-off spot! Vault toilet, picnic tables, trash and recycling bins. Parking is a large gravel lot-limit is one night. Only one other vehicle when we were there," shares Wanderfalds L.
Wildlife encounters: Campers frequently observe local wildlife. "Did hear farm equipment throughout the night but it wasn't drowning the nightlife noise. Got the experience of deer bedding next to my site," reports Gavin K. at Felt Picnic Area. The surrounding grasslands support numerous animal species.
Evening skies: The night sky viewing ranks as a top highlight. "Very quiet and dark for star gazing. Amazing trails!" notes Bruce K. about Black Mesa State Park. The minimal light pollution creates optimal conditions for observing stars and planets.
Water availability: Water sources are limited at many campsites near Kenton, Oklahoma. "No water available," warns Steve H. about Thompson Grove Boondocking. Campers should bring adequate water supplies, especially during hot summer months.
Access road conditions: The remote location means some access roads may be challenging. "About 12-15 miles North of the small town of Clayton. Most camping sites are basic and seven are electrical with water hookups," Judy B. explains about Clayton Lake State Park Campground.
Cell phone coverage: Signal strength varies significantly across the area. "Little to no Verizon service depending on where you stand," reports Wanderfalds L. about Felt Picnic Area. Some RV parks offer WiFi to compensate for limited cellular coverage.
Activity planning: Schedule outdoor activities early or late in the day during summer. "The sites were decent and spaced out well. They also included a covered area where the picnic table was. Not a ton of shade overall so it can get warm fast," advises Gonzo A.
Wildlife viewing with kids: Wild Bills RV Park offers convenient wildlife viewing opportunities. "There is some mini golf and a few cool places to take photos. The train in the middle of the night was a little loud," mentions Ari O.
Prepare for weather extremes: The Oklahoma panhandle experiences significant temperature fluctuations. "Plan for heat and take plenty of water if you go on the High Point hike," recommends Gentri R. at Black Mesa State Park. Morning temperatures can be 30-40 degrees cooler than afternoon highs.
Hookup availability: Coyote Keith's RV Park offers full service sites. "All sites are 60ft pull through. Just call to let them know your coming. Pick your own spot when you get there they are all the same," advises Michael C.
Level parking considerations: Most RV sites in the area provide level parking. "Clean, level and well maintained. Good water pressure, threaded sewer drops, tight 20/30/50 amp plug sockets. Sites are decently spaced and easy to navigate with plenty of parking for your towed," notes Vincent S.
Self-service systems: Many RV parks in the region operate on self-check-in systems. "We rolled in around 10 pm no attendant you slip money into the red box after you pick your spot," explains Michele L. about Coyote Keith's RV Park.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Kenton, OK?
According to TheDyrt.com, Kenton, OK offers a wide range of camping options, with 10 campgrounds and RV parks near Kenton, OK and 3 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Kenton, OK?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Kenton, OK is Black Mesa State Park Campground with a 4.3-star rating from 38 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Kenton, OK?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 3 free dispersed camping spots near Kenton, OK.
Keep Exploring
