Mountain Shade Campground

Oklahoma, with its diverse landscapes ranging from rolling plains to ancient mountains, offers a treasure trove of outdoor experiences for locals and visitors alike. Among its many natural gems, state parks stand out as prime destinations for camping, hiking, fishing, and simply unwinding in nature. In the scenic southwestern part of the state, nestled within Great Plains State Park, you'll find Mountain Shade Campground – a haven for those seeking a peaceful, clean, and amenity-rich outdoor adventure. This article aims to provide a clear, engaging, and informative overview of Mountain Shade Campground, helping Oklahomans discover why this spot is consistently lauded by its guests and why it might be their next favorite escape.

The allure of Mountain Shade Campground lies in its perfect blend of natural beauty and thoughtful amenities. Reviews consistently highlight the dedication of the park staff in maintaining an "immaculate" environment, ensuring that every visit is comfortable and enjoyable. It's more than just a place to park an RV or pitch a tent; it's a community where "most the other campers are friendly and wave to you," fostering a welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel right at home. This sense of peace and camaraderie, coupled with the stunning surroundings of the Wichita Mountains, creates a truly memorable camping experience.

For many Oklahomans, camping is a cherished tradition, a way to connect with family and friends, and a refreshing break from the daily grind. Mountain Shade Campground caters to these desires by providing well-maintained sites, essential facilities, and access to a variety of recreational activities. Whether you're an avid angler, a keen hiker, or simply looking for a quiet spot to enjoy the stars, this campground within Great Plains State Park promises a rewarding outdoor adventure.

Mountain Shade Campground is nestled within Great Plains State Park, specifically located in Mountain Park, OK 73559, USA. This placement in the "upper mountain area" of the state park suggests a scenic and elevated setting, offering potentially beautiful views and a refreshing escape from the flatter terrain of other parts of Oklahoma. Mountain Park is a small town in Kiowa County, situated near the majestic Wichita Mountains, which are known for their rugged beauty, unique rock formations, and abundant wildlife.

Accessibility to Mountain Shade Campground is generally straightforward for RVs and vehicles towing trailers, as it's part of a well-established state park. The park's entrance off local roads would be clearly marked, leading visitors to the various camping areas. While Mountain Park itself is a small community, it serves as a gateway to the broader natural attractions of the area. The famous Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, a national wildlife refuge known for its bison, elk, and longhorn cattle herds, as well as extensive hiking trails and scenic drives, is a short drive away. This proximity means that campers at Mountain Shade have easy access to some of Oklahoma's most breathtaking natural wonders and recreational opportunities.

The location also offers a sense of seclusion and peace, consistent with visitor feedback describing the park as "peaceful and quiet at night." This provides a true escape from urban noise, allowing campers to fully immerse themselves in the natural sounds and starry skies of rural Oklahoma.

Mountain Shade Campground, as part of Great Plains State Park, offers a comprehensive suite of services designed to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for all campers, from tent enthusiasts to large RV owners. The staff's dedication to maintaining a "clean and comfortable" environment is a recurring theme in visitor reviews.

• Full Hookup RV Sites: The "upper level RV area has full hookup 30 amp sites," providing water, sewer, and electrical connections. These sites are spacious, offering convenience for modern RVs.
• Electric-Only RV Sites: The "lower level right next to the reservoir has all of the above excluding sewer," meaning electric and water hookups are available, catering to those who may not need a sewer connection at their site.
• Dump Station: A convenient "dump station is located at the entrance of the upper level" for easy waste disposal for all campers.
• Bath/Shower Facilities: A "bath/shower facility is located at the base of the upper level," providing clean and accessible restrooms and showers for all campers, including those in the tent area.
• Inclement Weather Shelter: The bath/shower facility also serves as a "shelter during inclement weather," offering a crucial safety feature, especially vital during Oklahoma's storm seasons.
• Tent Camping Area: There is a "nice tent area just West of the two RV areas," providing dedicated space for traditional campers.
• Trash Receptacles: "Plenty of trash receptacles" are available throughout the park, contributing to its cleanliness.
• Boat Launch: A "boat launch is just West of the lower RV area," offering direct access to the reservoir for boating and fishing activities.

Mountain Shade Campground within Great Plains State Park is celebrated for its unique features and highlights that consistently earn it high praise from visitors. These elements collectively contribute to an exceptional camping experience.

• Immaculately Maintained and Gorgeous Setting: Reviewers consistently describe the park as "very well-maintained and gorgeous," with staff working "very hard to keep the park immaculate." This dedication to cleanliness and aesthetics significantly enhances the visitor experience.
• Peaceful and Quiet Atmosphere: The campground is noted for being "peaceful and quiet at night," making it an ideal retreat for those looking to escape noise and enjoy the tranquility of nature.
• Spacious Sites with Amenities: Each RV site, particularly in the upper level, offers "plenty of space," along with practical amenities like a "cement picnic table, a pedestal grill, and a firepit," encouraging outdoor living and gatherings.
• Friendly and Helpful Staff: The "staff is friendly, helpful, and works hard" and the "Rangers and Manager of the park are on call, extremely helpful," creating a welcoming and supportive environment for all guests.
• Paved Walking/Riding Trail: The presence of a "walking/riding trail that is paved" provides a safe and accessible option for exercise, biking, or simply enjoying a stroll through the park.
• Community Spirit: "Most the other campers are friendly and wave to you," highlighting a positive and welcoming community among visitors, fostering a sense of belonging.
• Direct Lake Access: With a "boat launch just West of the lower RV area," campers have easy access to the reservoir for boating, fishing, and water-based recreation.
• Reliable Storm Shelter: The dual function of the bath/shower facility as a shelter during inclement weather is a critical safety feature, especially valued in Oklahoma.

As a public Oklahoma State Park campground, Mountain Shade Campground typically adheres to a standardized pricing structure set by the Oklahoma Department of Tourism and Recreation. Direct "promotions" in the commercial sense (e.g., flash sales or buy-one-get-one offers) are not common. However, the pricing structure itself often offers value and consistency that benefits regular users and those planning extended stays. Key aspects that could be considered "offers" in this context include:

• Affordable State Park Rates: Oklahoma State Parks are generally known for their reasonable and competitive camping rates, making them an accessible option for many families and individuals.
• Annual Park Passes: Oklahoma offers annual passes (such as the Oklahoma State Parks Annual Pass) that provide benefits like free entry to certain park areas or discounts on amenities, which can lead to significant savings for frequent visitors.
• Senior and Disability Discounts: Many state parks offer reduced rates for seniors and individuals with disabilities on camping fees, which can be confirmed upon booking.
• Long-Term Stay Options: While not a discount, the availability of spots for extended stays (though specific daily vs. weekly/monthly rates would need to be confirmed directly with the park) offers flexibility for those needing a longer base.

For the most current information on rates, any specific package deals for groups, or potential discounts for certain demographics, it is always best to contact Mountain Shade Campground or Great Plains State Park directly. Their official website or phone number will provide the most accurate and up-to-date pricing and availability details.

To plan your visit, check availability, or inquire about specific details for Mountain Shade Campground within Great Plains State Park, you can use the following contact information:

• Address: Mountain Park, OK 73559, USA (located within Great Plains State Park)
• Phone: (580) 569-2032
• Mobile Phone: +1 580-569-2032

It is always recommended to call ahead, especially during peak seasons or if you have specific requirements for your campsite (e.g., 50 amp service, proximity to lake, tent-only area), to ensure availability and a smooth check-in process.

For Oklahomans seeking an exceptional outdoor experience, Mountain Shade Campground in Great Plains State Park stands out as a highly suitable and deeply rewarding destination. Its consistent positive reviews highlight key attributes that resonate strongly with local preferences for camping: a peaceful environment, well-maintained facilities, and friendly service.

The "peaceful and quiet at night" atmosphere makes it an ideal escape from the daily grind, allowing for true relaxation under the Oklahoma stars. The dedication of the staff, who "work hard to keep the park clean and comfortable for their guests" and are "extremely helpful," ensures a hassle-free and enjoyable stay. Whether you're bringing a large RV or prefer tent camping, the variety of "full hookup 30 amp sites" and dedicated "nice tent area" means there's a perfect spot for everyone.

Beyond the campsites themselves, the park's features like the "paved walking/riding trail" and direct "boat launch" offer diverse recreational opportunities right at your fingertips. The community aspect, where "most the other campers are friendly and wave to you," adds to the welcoming vibe, making it easy to feel at home. Crucially for Oklahoma, the bath/shower facility doubling as a "shelter during inclement weather" provides an essential safety net. All these factors combined make Mountain Shade Campground an outstanding choice for any Oklahoman looking to create cherished memories in the heart of their state's beautiful natural landscape.