Roman Nose State Park occupies a canyon landscape surrounded by red rock hills 15 miles north of Watonga, Oklahoma. The park features natural springs with cold, clear water flowing from rocky walls into gurgling streams throughout wooded pathways. With an elevation range of approximately 1,600-1,750 feet, the area experiences strong seasonal temperature variations including occasional ice storms in winter months.
What to do
Hiking trails: Roman Nose State Park offers multiple hiking paths through diverse terrain. "Amazing trails and great views," notes Justin J. about the park experience. Another visitor explains, "Many brooks and small waterfalls along the trails. Go, you'll love it."
Golfing: The Roman Nose State Park golf course provides challenging play for all skill levels. "The golf course is challenging and my 11 year old was free," mentions Brian F. The course is integrated into the natural landscape, creating a unique playing experience.
Water activities: Visitors can enjoy fishing, paddleboarding and boat rentals at the lakes. "Miniature golf, paddle boats, hiking trails, golf course and pool. There is a little store and restaurant in the park. You can even rent a teepee for the night," explains Richard.
What campers like
Natural springs: The cool, refreshing springs provide relief during hot Oklahoma summers. "After a day of hiking we love to go wade in the springs. Nice and refreshing," shares Nohemy T., who considers Roman Nose their "go to camping spot."
Diverse accommodation options: Foss State Park offers various lodging choices beyond standard campsites. One camper notes, "This is a huge camping park, with lots of sites for RV's with full hookups, partial hookups, and a separate tent area."
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain well-kept restrooms and shower facilities. At Foss State Park, a visitor appreciated that "The bathhouse was really clean, with pay showers." Another camper at the same park specifically mentioned the "air-conditioned bathrooms" as a welcome surprise during hot weather.
What you should know
Navigation challenges: While access roads to parks are well-marked, internal signage can be confusing. "The signage getting to the park was great but within the park not so much. Know where your going before hand if you can," advises a Roman Nose visitor.
Weather considerations: The region experiences extreme conditions, particularly wind. At Foss State Park, a camper noted: "I don't know if it's an Oklahoma thing but the wind was crazy making tent camping a little rough."
Variable cell service: Lake El Reno RV Park offers convenient overnight options with varying connectivity. The park features "sites with no hookups for $20" on the east entrance and hookups for $25 at the weather entrance, according to Susan B.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several rv parks near Watonga, Oklahoma feature dedicated children's areas. Wanderlust Crossings RV Park includes "a cute store where you check in and a nice fenced playground and dog run," according to a visitor named Anna.
Swimming options: Wanderlust Crossings RV Park maintains excellent facilities for families. "The grounds are stunning! Each space had cement slabs that are level which made our night stop so easy. The grass is thick and meticulously cared for," notes Julie F.
Wildlife viewing: Foss State Park offers opportunities to observe local fauna. One camper mentioned, "We were visited in our sleep by raccoons trying to get in our tent," highlighting the importance of proper food storage.
Tips from RVers
Level sites: Territory Route 66 RV Park & Campgrounds provides well-maintained spaces for larger rigs. "Sites are very level. The restrooms and showers are really nice and clean," notes Debbie J., who appreciated the "lots of grassy areas to walk the dogs."
Utility access: Many Watonga area rv parks offer full hookups with reliable connections. At Territory Route 66, Gary S. found a "small campground. Easy to find and park. Host is extremely helpful for directions and park amenities. Level gravel sites. A+."
Storm preparation: Weather can change rapidly in Oklahoma. At Clearview RV Park, visitors appreciate the "peaceful setting outside of Enid, Ok." Jennifer H. describes it as "a little off the beaten path, but if you're looking for a peaceful, clean park...this is it!"
