Kenton camping features unique geology at the intersection of three states, with diverse terrains ranging from high plains to rugged mesas. The area sits at approximately 4,300 feet elevation with notable temperature swings between seasons and day-to-night. Campsites near Kenton offer varied accommodations with limited services due to the remote location.
What to do
Explore dinosaur tracks: Visit Clayton Lake State Park Campground where you can hike to prehistoric dinosaur footprints. "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," shares one visitor of Clayton Lake State Park Campground.
Stargaze in dark skies: The minimal light pollution creates exceptional night viewing opportunities. A camper at Thompson Grove Boondocking reported, "Sky is gorgeous at night, just look up." Another noted there's "a dark sky viewing area above the campground" at Black Mesa State Park.
Wildlife watching: The area supports diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. At Clayton Lake, a camper observed that the lake was "tranquil and bustling with wildlife. Coyotes barked in the distance, strutting turkey's gobbled, jackrabbit's darted, fish jumped and mule deer grazed the shoreline grasses."
What campers like
Quiet seclusion: Many campers appreciate the peaceful atmosphere. A visitor at Thomspon Grove Campground described it as "Very quiet, very secluded. Great picnic tables, has toilets an old corral with windmill. Can stay up to 14 days."
Clean facilities: Despite the remote location, campgrounds maintain good standards. A camper at Coyote Keith's RV Park noted, "The well manicured sites were nicer than some 'resort' type properties we have stayed at." Another mentioned it was "clean, level and well maintained."
Self-service convenience: Many rv campgrounds near Kenton, Oklahoma operate with minimal staff. A reviewer at Wild Bills RV Park commented, "Each site is pull thru with full hook ups. The laundry is in a heated bathroom with shower. Pull in select your site complete the registration and put it in the drop box."
What you should know
Limited services: The remote nature means planning ahead is essential. A visitor to Black Mesa State Park Campground warned, "The nearest town where you can get supplies and gas is Boise 36 miles east of the park."
Weather considerations: The high plains experience extreme conditions. Campers should "Plan for heat and take plenty of water if you go on the High Point hike" at Black Mesa.
Reservation systems: Most Kenton, Oklahoma RV campgrounds use different booking methods. At Clayton RV Park, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Rock exploration for kids: Natural formations provide entertainment for children. At Clayton Lake State Park, one family enjoyed "primitive site C4 which provided Mr 8 with boundless adventures scrambling in the rocks."
Educational opportunities: The area offers learning experiences beyond typical camping. A visitor at Clayton Lake State Park Campground shared, "We also chatted to a fellow camper who had a large telescope with him. We got to see Jupiter and its 4 largest moons at dusk."
Safety precautions: The remote nature requires extra planning. "Be sure to plan for it! Plan for heat and take plenty of water if you go on the High Point hike," advises a Black Mesa visitor.
Tips from RVers
Hookup configurations: RV sites have specific layouts to consider. At Wild Bills RV & Trailer Park, a camper noted, "Each site is pull thru with full hook ups. The laundry is in a heated bathroom with shower."
Road conditions: Access roads vary significantly in quality. While visiting Thompson Grove Boondocking, a camper found it was "Easy enough to get in and out of with an SUV and small camper."
Overnight alternatives: Multiple free or low-cost options exist. "I thought it was a great overnight spot. It's really just a gravel parking lot with bathrooms. Easy to get here and great stars," said one RVer about Thompson Grove Campground, adding "I was the only one here in my truck camper."
