Equestrian camping near Kenton, Oklahoma centers around facilities in neighboring New Mexico and Texas. The northeastern New Mexico region sits at elevations between 5,000-6,000 feet, creating distinct seasonal camping conditions. Most equestrian accommodations require advanced planning due to limited corral availability, particularly during summer months when temperatures average 85-90°F.
What to do
Dinosaur track viewing: Clayton Lake State Park Campground features preserved dinosaur tracks uncovered during dam construction. "The dinosaur tracks (uncovered at the spillway around 1982 after a flood) at the spillway are of particular interest. Informational signage lines the spillway and the small pavilion atop the levy," notes Dave V.
Night sky observation: The area offers exceptional dark sky viewing opportunities. "This whole area of New Mexico has really dark skies at night with so many stars visible," writes AJ M. about Clayton Lake State Park. Some campers bring telescopes, with one visitor reporting, "we chatted to a fellow camper who had a large telescope with him. We got to see Jupiter and it's 4 largest moons at dusk."
Fishing expeditions: Clayton Lake supports active fishing. "The lake was hopping with fish, and looked clean," reports Stacy J. at Clayton Lake State Park Campground. The 170-acre reservoir remains stocked despite water level fluctuations.
What campers like
Self-service convenience: Many area campgrounds operate with minimal staff intervention. "Reserve online, no office attendant. Pull in to your spot and hook-up. Clean, level and well maintained," explains Vincent S. about Coyote Keith's RV Park.
Wildlife viewing: Multiple campsites provide opportunities to observe regional wildlife. At Clayton Lake, one camper observed "Coyotes barked in the distance, strutting turkey's gobbled, jackrabbit's darted, fish jumped and mule deer grazed the shoreline grasses and taking in late night and early morning drinks."
Open terrain exploration: The plains landscape offers distinctive camping experiences. "40+ acres to walk around and enjoy...daily we see folks out on the tracker, in the distance, farm homes with farm animals," reports Shannon B. about the surrounding landscape at Coyote Keith's.
What you should know
Limited water access: Several campgrounds restrict water availability during cold months. "Stopped overnight. Deep cold, light snow. Cozy and quiet spot this time of year. Used power, but no water," explains Jody D. about Clayton RV Park.
Connectivity limitations: Cell service varies significantly throughout the region. At Thompson Grove Campground, a camper notes, "I have cell service," while others report complete disconnection at nearby sites. One visitor at Clayton Lake emphasizes, "First off, you will be completely off-grid. There is no cell reception, WiFi, or cable or antenna tv."
Weather impacts: The exposed plains location means campgrounds experience significant weather events. "Here comes the hail storm that was somewhat freakish, but afterwards a beautiful rainbow," reports one camper, noting rapid weather changes characteristic of the region.
Tips for camping with families
Rock exploration opportunities: Several campgrounds feature natural rock formations ideal for supervised children's exploration. "We had primitive site C4 which provided Mr 8 with boundless adventures scrambling in the rocks," reports AJ M. about their stay at Clayton Lake.
Educational exhibits: The dinosaur trackway provides educational value. "The main attraction is the dinosaur tracks, uncovered when topsoil was removed to build the dam," notes Judy B., making Thompson Grove Campground a worthwhile day trip for families camping in the area.
Bathroom considerations: Restroom facilities throughout the region vary in quality and maintenance. "Facilities are a little dated. Bathroom could use an overhaul but it's not a very big or busy campground," reports Tiffany B. about Clayton Lake, while another camper notes, "Bathrooms are dated, but clean."
Tips from RVers
Pull-through accessibility: Most RV sites in the region accommodate larger vehicles. "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," explains Michael C. about his experience at Coyote Keith's.
Hookup quality: RVers note varying electrical service. "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," reports Vincent S.
Overnight strategy: The area serves effectively for single-night stays during longer journeys. "Great spot to boondock for the night," states Michael J. about Thomspon Grove Campground, while another RVer notes, "I would much have preferred to stay here overnight instead of the WalMart I wound up at instead!"
