Roman Nose State Park offers diverse equestrian camping experiences on the rolling terrain of central Oklahoma. Located in canyon country with natural springs, the park sits at approximately 1,600 feet elevation and features a network of trails traversing woodlands and rocky outcroppings. Seasonal changes affect trail conditions, with spring bringing wildflower displays and winter offering trout fishing opportunities in the park's lakes.
What to do
Overnight horseback adventures: Foss State Park Campground accommodates equestrians with designated areas for overnight horse housing. "This campground offers an area sectioned off for swimmers. A lot of room is available for boating fun wether it be fishing, skiing, tubing, etc. The park rangers are very friendly and accommodating," notes Colton K.
Natural springs exploration: Trail systems connect to several cold-water springs where temperatures remain consistent year-round. "After a day of hiking we love to go wade in the springs. Nice and refreshing," writes Nohemy T. about Roman Nose State Park.
Winter trout fishing: The lakes at Roman Nose provide seasonal trout fishing opportunities. William A. shares, "During the Fall and Winter months the lake provides great Trout Fishing that is stocked every 2 weeks."
Family recreation facilities: Beyond horseback riding, families can enjoy additional outdoor activities. Brian F. notes about Roman Nose State Park, "The golf course is challenging and my 11 year old was free. The signage getting to the park was great but within the park not so much."
What campers like
Unique accommodation options: Roman Nose offers alternatives beyond standard campsites. "There are tepees that are available to pay to camp in as well. There are trails nearby here, we really enjoyed our stay," explains Kelly Z.
Discovery-focused terrain: The canyon landscape creates opportunities for exploration beyond marked trails. Dana H. reports about Foss State Park Campground, "Gorgeous valley with abundant forest with R.V. and tent spaces and cabins to rent. Fishing, hiking, paddleboard, and a pool. The lake isn't for swimming, just fishing."
Air-conditioned facilities: Summer heat is mitigated by climate-controlled amenities. "We were in site BB002 which had decent privacy. Unfortunately, it was a very hot and humid day but we were pleasantly surprised by the air-conditioned bathrooms," shares Amy H. about Foss State Park.
Seasonal events: The parks coordinate special activities throughout the year. "They do special events during the year like fireworks on the lake for the 4th of July, haunted trails and trick or treating for Halloween, some other events here and there year round," explains Colton K.
What you should know
Wind conditions: Oklahoma's plains create persistent wind patterns that affect camping comfort. Anna M. from Water-Zoo Campground reports, "I don't know if it's an Oklahoma thing but the wind was crazy making tent camping a little rough."
Bathhouse facilities vary: Restroom and shower quality differs between campground sections. Jo A. notes about Foss State Park, "Rv sites have great bath houses with toilets, a paved parking lot, and the showers are coin operated. Tent campers have unpaved roads along with a permanent building for the toilet provided and no showers."
Campsite selection impacts experience: Site locations vary significantly in privacy and amenities. Leslie N. advises, "Cedar Cove had water & electric and seemed to be the sites with least traffic & felt a bit more peaceful. Canyon Vista is very crowded, open & only for those that enjoy knowing their neighbors well."
Trail signage limitations: Navigation within parks can be challenging. Brian F. warns, "The signage getting to the park was great but within the park not so much. Know where your going before hand if you can."
Tips for camping with families
Multiple difficulty trail options: Trail systems cater to various experience levels. "The Spring Loop Trail with the Spring Pavilion & the old OCC Pool is a must & so is the Inspiration Point Trail. Inspiration Point Trail is a moderate trail with some steep grades," recommends Leslie N. from Water-Zoo Campground.
Wildlife encounters: Prepare for nocturnal visitors to campsites. Anna M. reports, "We were visited in our sleep by raccoons trying to get in our tent."
Evening lighting needs: Staff may provide assistance with setup after dark. Meg M. shares about Foss State Park, "When they did bring it down, the 'campsite parentals' and the conservation agent stayed with us and kept our camping site lit with their cart lights to help with us putting up our tents at dark."
Insect preparation: Regional bugs require specific countermeasures. "I'm not used to what're gnat like bug they have so plan accordingly they are attracted mostly to light but swarm both day and night. I wear a hat with a net so they don't bother me," advises Anna M.
Tips from RVers
Low clearance awareness: Tree branches may create obstacles for larger vehicles. Brian F. notes, "Be careful of low hanging branches if you have a taller RV."
Site selection for large rigs: Campground areas vary in accommodation capacity. Janette M. shares about Foss State Park Campground, "Sites are pull through and big enough to fit a 40' fifth wheel. Electric/water and sewer hook ups are available as well as restrooms and showers."
Full hookup availability: Utility connections differ between campground sections. Tom R. reports, "Good facilities and good parking for travel trailers - we had a 49 foot rig and the spots we picked worked out great. Showers and bathrooms were very nice."
Off-highway accessibility: Some campgrounds provide quiet alternatives despite proximity to main routes. Tawnee P. about Water-Zoo Campground states, "It is conveniently located near I-40, the campground sits off the road and was not noisy."
