Tent camping near Keyes, Oklahoma centers around three primitive fishing sites located 10-20 miles northwest in Kansas. The high plains elevation (approximately 3,000-3,500 feet) creates a climate of hot summers and cold winters with significant temperature variations between day and night. These sites experience strong winds year-round due to the exposed terrain, requiring campers to secure tents properly with heavy-duty stakes and guy lines.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Point of Rocks Ponds provides bank fishing in a remote setting. The site features multiple small ponds stocked with panfish and bass, though catch rates vary seasonally.
Wildlife observation: Mallard Ponds Fishing Site attracts various waterfowl species during migration seasons. Morning and evening hours offer optimal viewing conditions for birds, pronghorn, and occasionally deer visiting the ponds.
Night sky viewing: The minimal light pollution around Wilburton Pond Fishing Site creates excellent conditions for stargazing. The open plains terrain provides unobstructed views of constellations, particularly during winter months when air clarity improves.
What campers like
Solitude and quiet: The remote nature of these fishing sites ensures minimal crowds. Campers appreciate the absence of generator noise, as these are prohibited at all three locations.
Accessible fishing: The ponds feature relatively flat approaches to the shoreline. Bank fishing requires no special equipment beyond standard gear.
Photography opportunities: The stark plains landscape offers unique photographic conditions, especially during sunrise and sunset when the light quality changes dramatically across the open terrain.
What you should know
Weather preparation: The exposed terrain at these primitive camping sites provides no natural windbreaks. Strong winds are common year-round, with gusts exceeding 30 mph during weather systems. Secure tents with extra stakes.
Water requirements: No potable water exists at any tent camping location near Keyes. Campers must bring 1-2 gallons per person per day, with additional amounts during summer when temperatures frequently exceed 90°F.
Limited shade: The Kansas-Oklahoma border region features minimal tree cover. Camping areas around the fishing ponds have no natural shade structures, requiring campers to bring portable shade options during summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Safety considerations: The unfenced ponds at Mallard Ponds Fishing Site require close supervision of children. The shorelines can become muddy and slippery after rain.
Activity planning: The lack of developed facilities at these primitive tent camping sites near Keyes means families should bring portable games and activities. The wide-open spaces provide room for frisbee, kite flying, and other wind-friendly activities.
Temperature management: Summer daytime temperatures frequently reach 90-100°F while dropping into the 60s overnight. Pack accordingly with both cooling options (portable fans, shade structures) and warm clothing for evenings.
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: The unpaved access roads to Point of Rocks Ponds become difficult to navigate after rainfall. Small trailers may access the site during dry conditions, but large RVs cannot safely reach the camping areas.
Self-contained requirements: With no water or sanitation facilities at any of these sites, RVers must bring holding tank capacity for their entire stay and be prepared to transport waste to proper disposal facilities 20+ miles away.
Alternative options: RVers seeking hookups should consider established campgrounds in Liberal, Kansas (approximately 35 miles east) or Clayton, New Mexico (approximately 60 miles southwest), as the tent camping areas near Keyes cannot accommodate larger vehicles or provide necessary services.
