Clayton Lake Campground

For Oklahomans yearning for a serene escape into nature, Clayton Lake Campground, nestled within Clayton Lake State Park in southeastern Oklahoma, offers a compelling destination. This park provides a restful hideaway, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in a peaceful setting where the beauty of the Kiamichi Mountains meets the tranquility of a pristine lake. It's an ideal spot for those looking to disconnect from the daily grind and reconnect with the outdoors, whether through camping, fishing, boating, or simply enjoying the quietude.

Clayton Lake Campground caters to a variety of outdoor enthusiasts, offering both tent and RV camping options. As one satisfied visitor noted, "I arrived the first time after hours. The staff explained the relaxed hours. They are only a call away. Everything is so peacefully aligned with nature. I would recommend tent camping and RV camping with levels." This highlights the accommodating nature of the park's staff and the harmonious blend of the campground with its natural surroundings. While some facilities may show signs of age, as one review mentioned concerning disrepair and cleanliness in some areas, and issues with coin-operated showers, the overarching appeal of Clayton Lake lies in its beautiful setting and the myriad of activities available. It remains a popular choice for many Oklahomans drawn to its natural allure and the recreational opportunities it provides.

Clayton Lake Campground is situated at 170564 US-271, Clayton, OK 74536, USA, making it an integral part of Clayton Lake State Park. This location places it in the scenic southeastern region of Oklahoma, within the Kiamichi Mountains. For Oklahomans, the park's accessibility is a key factor in planning their outdoor getaways.

The campground's direct access via US-271, a major highway in this part of the state, ensures relatively straightforward travel for RVs and vehicles towing trailers. Clayton Lake State Park is located approximately five miles south of the town of Clayton. This proximity means that while campers can enjoy the secluded and peaceful atmosphere of the park, they also have convenient access to the town for supplies, fuel, and any other necessities. The Kiamichi Mountains region is known for its rugged beauty, dense hardwood forests, and numerous recreational lakes and rivers. This setting positions Clayton Lake as an excellent base for exploring the wider area, including nearby attractions like the Ouachita National Forest and Sardis Lake, which further expands the range of outdoor activities available to visitors. The balance between being "peacefully aligned with nature" and having reasonable accessibility to local services makes Clayton Lake Campground a practical and desirable choice for a true Oklahoma outdoor experience.

Clayton Lake Campground, as part of Clayton Lake State Park, offers a comprehensive range of services and facilities designed to accommodate various camping preferences and enhance the outdoor experience. The park aims to provide essential comforts while allowing visitors to immerse themselves in nature.

• RV Sites: The park features "full service RV sites," indicating that these sites typically include water, electricity, and sewer hookups for maximum convenience. There are "30 reserveable RV sites" that offer electric and water hookups, making it suitable for a variety of RV sizes.
• Tent Camping Areas: For those who prefer a more traditional camping experience, "tent camping areas" are available, including "60 first come first serve tent sites spread out between three camping areas."
• Cabins: The park offers various cabin options for those seeking a more solid structure:
  • Primitive Cabins: These provide a basic shelter option.
  • Family-Style Two-Bedroom Cabin: A larger cabin suitable for families.
• Comfort Stations with Showers: The park provides "comfort stations with hot showers" and restrooms, which are essential for campers. However, it's important to note a past review mentioning issues with coin-operated showers (e.g., "showers often steal your money and leave you standing there naked with no shower after putting coins in"). It is advisable to check current conditions or inquire about this upon arrival.
• Picnic Facilities: Numerous "picnic tables" and "group picnic shelters" are available throughout the park, some with views of the lake, providing ideal spots for outdoor meals and gatherings.
• Boat Ramps: For water enthusiasts, "two boat ramps" are provided, allowing easy access to Clayton Lake for boating.
• Fishing: The 80-acre lake is well-known for "fishing," with a "lighted boat and ADA accessible fishing dock," making it accessible for anglers of all abilities. The lake is stocked with largemouth bass, crappie, sunfish, and channel catfish.
• Swimming Beach: A designated "swimming beach" offers a safe area for lake recreation.
• Playground: A "playground" is available for children, providing a dedicated area for play and recreation.
• Hiking Trails: The park offers various "hiking trails" allowing visitors to explore the hardwood forests and natural scenery.
• ATV Trails: Clayton Lake State Park is specifically noted as an "excellent location for ... ATVs," suggesting designated trails or access points for off-road vehicle use.
• On-Call Staff: As per a review, staff are "only a call away" for assistance, particularly for after-hours arrivals, indicating responsive support.

For the most current information on fees, availability, and specific conditions of facilities, contacting Clayton Lake State Park directly is recommended.

Clayton Lake Campground, within Clayton Lake State Park, boasts several compelling features and highlights that make it a desirable destination for Oklahomans seeking an outdoor experience.

• Peaceful Natural Setting: The park is described as a "restful hideaway" and being "peacefully aligned with nature." It's located in the scenic Kiamichi Mountains, offering beautiful views and a quiet escape from urban noise, ideal for relaxation and connecting with the outdoors.
• Beautiful Lake: Clayton Lake itself is an 80-acre "no wake" lake, promoting a calm environment. It's an "excellent location for fishing," well-stocked with various fish species, and features a "lighted boat and ADA accessible fishing dock." This makes it appealing for anglers and those who enjoy tranquil water activities.
• Diverse Camping Options: The park offers a variety of accommodations to suit different preferences: "full service RV sites" with hookups, "tent camping areas," "primitive cabins," and a "family-style two bedroom cabin." This flexibility allows a wide range of campers to find suitable lodging.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: With a "swimming beach" and a "playground," the park caters to families, providing activities for children to enjoy during their stay.
• Recreational Activities: Beyond camping, the park is a hub for outdoor adventure, offering opportunities for "boating," "fishing," "hiking trails," and notably, "ATVs," catering to both serene and more adventurous pursuits.
• Accommodating Staff: The staff are described as helpful and "only a call away," indicating a commitment to guest assistance and a welcoming atmosphere, even for after-hours arrivals.
• Shaded Campsites (Tent): For tent campers, the implication of being "peacefully aligned with nature" often means natural shade, which is crucial during Oklahoma summers.

While some facilities, particularly the bathhouse, might be "dated" or have occasional issues, the overall natural beauty, diverse activities, and accommodating atmosphere remain strong highlights for visitors.

Specific, publicly advertised "promotions" or "special offers" for Clayton Lake Campground (as part of Clayton Lake State Park) are generally not highlighted in the same way a private business might run sales. As a state park, its pricing structure for camping, cabins, and day use fees is typically standardized and published by the Oklahoma State Parks system.

However, state parks often offer "value" or "discount" programs that can be considered forms of special offers for eligible individuals:

• Senior Discounts: Oklahoma State Parks typically offer discounts on campsite rates for senior citizens. For instance, a "senior discount is currently $2 off the daily published rate for designated standard RV and tent campsites."
• Total Disability Discounts: A "total disability discount is currently 50% of the base rate for designated standard RV and tent campsites."
• Annual Passes: For frequent visitors, purchasing an Oklahoma State Parks annual pass can provide significant savings on day-use fees and sometimes on camping.
• Seasonal Rates: While not always a "promotion," prices for cabins and possibly some campsites might vary slightly between "Winter Rates (December through February)" and "Summer Rates (March through November)," as seen with primitive cabins ($65 vs. $75 per night).
• Advance Reservations: The park offers "30 reserveable RV sites" that can be booked up to "one year in advance" with a "three-night stay" requirement for reservations, and "no additional fee to reserve a site." This allows visitors to secure their preferred spot, which can be seen as a convenience and value in popular seasons.

For the most accurate and current information on all fees, potential discounts, and any specific offers, Oklahomans should consult the official Oklahoma State Parks website or contact Clayton Lake State Park directly using the provided phone number.

For inquiries regarding reservations, site availability, park conditions, or to learn more about the amenities at Clayton Lake Campground (part of Clayton Lake State Park), interested individuals can reach out using the following contact details:

• Address: 170564 US-271, Clayton, OK 74536, USA
• Phone: (918) 569-7981 (Park Office)
• Alternate Phone/Mobile: (580) 306-3431 (Note: This number was previously associated with another park and might be incorrect for Clayton Lake - please verify the official park number for current contact.)

It's always advisable to contact the park directly, especially when inquiring about specific concerns like the status of shower facilities, or to confirm the most current information regarding relaxed hours and staff availability.

For Oklahomans, Clayton Lake Campground, as a vital part of Clayton Lake State Park, is exceptionally suitable for a wide array of outdoor enthusiasts seeking a blend of serene natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Its appeal lies in its ability to cater to diverse camping styles while offering plentiful activities within a beautiful, quiet setting.

Firstly, the park's location in the picturesque Kiamichi Mountains, right on the tranquil 80-acre Clayton Lake, provides an immediate escape from the daily grind. Locals can enjoy the peace of nature, with opportunities for excellent fishing, leisurely boating (no wake policy ensures calm waters), and swimming at the designated beach. The presence of ATV trails further broadens its appeal for those seeking more adventurous pursuits, ensuring there's something for every outdoor interest.

Secondly, the variety of camping options—from full-service RV sites and ample tent camping areas to primitive and family-style cabins—makes it accessible to nearly all types of campers, regardless of their equipment preferences. The accommodating staff, who are "only a call away," add a layer of comfort and support, particularly for those arriving after hours. While some facilities, like the bathhouse, might show their age and have had past issues, the overall experience of being "peacefully aligned with nature" and the sheer abundance of activities often outweigh these minor concerns for the true outdoor lover. For Oklahomans looking for a genuine, active, and accessible outdoor retreat within their own state, where they can fish, hike, explore, and simply unwind, Clayton Lake Campground offers an ideal and enriching destination.