Clayton Lake Campground

Nestled within the stunning Kiamichi Mountains of Southeastern Oklahoma, Clayton Lake Campground offers a truly peaceful and nature-aligned escape for locals seeking respite from the everyday. As part of Clayton Lake State Park, this campground provides a scenic backdrop for a variety of outdoor activities, from tranquil lake experiences to thrilling off-road adventures in the surrounding wilderness. While like any popular outdoor destination, it has its areas for improvement, its undeniable charm, convenient location, and dedication to a natural camping experience make it a consistent favorite for many Oklahomans.

Clayton Lake Campground, located just south of the town of Clayton, is a key component of Clayton Lake State Park, a cherished natural gem in Oklahoma. Known for its 66-acre "no wake" lake, the park emphasizes a serene and quiet atmosphere, making it perfect for fishing, passive boating, and simply enjoying the sounds of nature. The campground itself offers a blend of options for both tent and RV campers, accommodating various preferences for an outdoor stay. Visitors frequently praise the helpfulness of the staff, noting their accommodating nature and relaxed approach, even for after-hours arrivals. One happy camper shared, "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 friendly local service and the park's commitment to a harmonious outdoor experience.

While some facilities, particularly restrooms and showers, have received mixed reviews regarding their maintenance and cleanliness, it's important to consider this within the context of a public state park, and many still find the overall experience worthwhile due to the beautiful natural setting and the ease of access to the lake and trails. It’s a place where the primary draw is the direct connection with Oklahoma's captivating mountain and lake environments.

Clayton Lake Campground is conveniently situated at 170564 US-271, Clayton, OK 74536, USA. This address places it approximately five miles south of the town of Clayton, deep within the picturesque Kiamichi Mountains of southeastern Oklahoma. The location offers a delightful balance of secluded natural beauty and relatively easy access to essential amenities in the nearby town.

For Oklahoma residents, reaching Clayton Lake Campground is a straightforward drive via US-271, a well-maintained highway that winds through the scenic landscape. The park entrance is generally well-marked, ensuring a smooth arrival. Once inside the park, roads leading to the campground areas are navigable for both RVs and vehicles towing trailers. Campers have noted that the ground for camping is "soft and flat" in many places, which is ideal for setting up tents or leveling RVs, though some sites might require minor leveling adjustments. The campground's direct proximity to US-271 means some road noise might be audible, as mentioned in a review, but this is often a trade-off for the convenient access to both the park and the town of Clayton, which is "just a short walk to a shop and restaurants." This accessibility makes Clayton Lake a practical choice for a quick weekend getaway or a longer vacation for locals across Oklahoma.

• Tent and RV Campsites: Clayton Lake Campground offers a variety of campsites suitable for both tent camping and RVs. There are 30 reservable RV sites with electric and water hookups, and 60 first-come, first-served tent sites spread across three camping areas.
• Primitive Cabins: For those seeking a slightly more comfortable outdoor experience, the park also offers primitive cabins. These provide a basic shelter, allowing campers to enjoy the park with a few more creature comforts.
• Restroom and Shower Facilities: The park provides access to comfort stations equipped with hot showers and flush toilets. While some past reviews have noted issues with cleanliness and maintenance in these facilities, they are available for camper use.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite, whether for tents or RVs, typically includes a picnic table and a fire ring with a grill, essential for outdoor cooking and enjoying campfires (subject to current fire regulations).
• Water Hookups: RV sites generally come with water hookups, providing convenience for campers.
• Boat Ramps and Fishing Dock: The park features two boat ramps for easy access to Clayton Lake, along with an ADA-accessible and lighted fishing dock, catering to anglers and boaters.
• On-Call Staff: As noted by a visitor, staff are "only a call away," indicating a level of responsiveness and assistance available to campers, even outside of traditional office hours.
• Playground: For families, there's a playground available within the park, providing entertainment for children.
• Pavilions: Five picnic pavilions are available for day-use or group gatherings.

• Peaceful Lake Environment: Clayton Lake is an 80-acre "no wake" lake, ensuring a tranquil and serene environment. This policy contributes significantly to the peaceful atmosphere ideal for quiet activities like fishing and non-motorized boating.
• Excellent Fishing: The lake is a popular spot for fishing, boasting a variety of species including crappie, sunfish, channel catfish, largemouth bass, and smallmouth bass. Its "no wake" status makes it particularly appealing to anglers.
• Off-Road Travel Opportunities: As one reviewer mentioned, the area is suitable for "off-road travel," suggesting that nearby trails and terrain cater to ATV or UTV enthusiasts, adding an adventurous dimension to a stay.
• Beautiful Kiamichi Mountain Scenery: The campground is set within the stunning Kiamichi Mountains, offering picturesque views and a lush hardwood forest environment that is particularly vibrant during spring and fall.
• Friendly and Accommodating Staff: A consistent highlight from visitor reviews is the friendly and helpful nature of the park staff and groundskeepers, who contribute positively to the overall camping experience.
• Hiking Trails: The park features hiking trails that allow visitors to explore the surrounding forest and lake shoreline, offering opportunities for nature walks and wildlife viewing.
• Wildlife Viewing: The park is frequented by various wildlife, including deer, squirrels, raccoons, and geese, providing opportunities for nature observation.
• Proximity to Town: The campground's location just a short walk from Clayton town means easy access to local shops and restaurants, blending a rustic outdoor experience with convenient amenities.

For reservations and specific inquiries regarding Clayton Lake Campground, which is part of Clayton Lake State Park, please use the following contact details:

Address: 170564 US-271, Clayton, OK 74536, USA

Phone: (918) 569-7981 (This is the direct phone number for Clayton Lake State Park. It's advisable to call during regular park office hours for the best assistance with reservations and current conditions.)

It is highly recommended to check the official Oklahoma State Parks website for the most up-to-date information on camping fees, availability, any fire restrictions, or other important advisories. Online reservations are often available and encouraged, especially during peak seasons.

Clayton Lake Campground is a fantastic choice for Oklahoma locals seeking a tranquil and engaging outdoor experience right in their backyard. Its setting within the breathtaking Kiamichi Mountains provides a scenic retreat that feels worlds away from urban life, yet remains easily accessible from various parts of the state. For Oklahomans, this means less time traveling and more time enjoying the natural beauty and recreational opportunities.

The emphasis on a "peacefully aligned with nature" environment, particularly with the "no wake" lake, makes it an ideal spot for those who prioritize relaxation, quiet fishing, and gentle paddling. While some feedback points to areas where facilities could be improved, the overall sentiment remains positive, largely due to the stunning natural surroundings and the accommodating nature of the park staff. Locals often understand that state parks, while offering incredible access to nature, can sometimes have varying levels of facility upkeep, and many are willing to overlook minor issues for the sheer beauty and experience.

Furthermore, the versatility of camping options—from tent sites to RV hookups and primitive cabins—ensures that a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts, from seasoned campers to those looking for a slightly more comfortable glamping experience, can find their ideal setup. The added bonus of being able to bring a Urel motorcycle for off-road travel or enjoying the nearby shops and restaurants in Clayton means that your outdoor adventure can be as rugged or as convenient as you desire. For Oklahoma residents, Clayton Lake Campground truly offers a chance to disconnect, explore the unique beauty of the Kiamichi Mountains, and create lasting memories in a serene and welcoming environment.

Clayton Lake Campground

170564 US-271, Clayton, OK 74536, USA