Reeve's Ravine North Campground: Your Oklahoma Camping Destination

Reeve's Ravine North Campground Introduce

Escape the everyday and reconnect with nature right here in Oklahoma at Reeve's Ravine North Campground. Nestled within the expansive and beautiful Tishomingo National Wildlife Refuge, this campground offers a serene and accessible retreat for Oklahoma residents and visitors alike. Whether you're a seasoned camper or looking for a simple, peaceful escape with the family, Reeve's Ravine North provides the perfect setting. As a free, single campsite, it offers a unique opportunity to enjoy the rugged beauty of the region without the cost, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a tranquil and budget-friendly outdoor experience. Its location on the north shore of Reeve's Ravine Reservoir within the Tishomingo Wildlife Management Unit makes it a sought-after spot for local adventurers who appreciate a campsite with both shade and scenic views.

The Tishomingo National Wildlife Refuge is a vital part of Oklahoma's conservation efforts, and camping at Reeve's Ravine North allows you to become part of this mission. The area is managed by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service and is dedicated to preserving a natural habitat for a wide variety of flora and fauna. The campsite itself is developed to provide a comfortable yet rustic experience, perfect for those who want to disconnect from the hustle and bustle and truly immerse themselves in the natural environment. While it is a single campsite, it is one of seven official camping spots within the Management Unit and is known for its popularity, especially among those who appreciate its peaceful atmosphere and proximity to the water.

The emphasis at Reeve's Ravine North is on a more traditional camping experience. It’s a place where you can set up a tent, gather around a fire ring, and enjoy the simple pleasures of the outdoors. The site is particularly well-suited for smaller vehicles like cars, vans, or pickup truck campers, making it an excellent choice for a weekend road trip. The limited turn-around space means it's not ideal for large trailers, which helps maintain the quiet, natural feel of the area. Families will find this a safe and engaging environment for children to learn about nature, and the serene backdrop is perfect for creating lasting memories around a campfire.

Reeve's Ravine North Campground is situated within the Tishomingo National Wildlife Refuge in Johnston County, OK 73460, USA. This location makes it a convenient escape for many in the southern Oklahoma region. Accessibility to the campground is straightforward, with on-site parking available for visitors. It's located along Management Unit Road, and its position on the north shore of the Reeve's Ravine Reservoir means campers have easy access to the water for fishing and other activities. The refuge's office is located nearby for any inquiries, and the GPS coordinates are 34.1879, -96.6956, making it easy to navigate to the site. The elevation of the campground is approximately 666 feet, providing a pleasant setting for outdoor recreation.

While the campground is not equipped with modern facilities like electricity or running water, its accessibility and strategic location within the refuge are its key features. The on-site parking provides a secure place for your vehicle while you explore the surrounding trails or cast a line into the reservoir. Its proximity to the refuge headquarters ensures that help or information is never too far away. This combination of seclusion and accessibility is part of what makes Reeve's Ravine North a local gem for those who enjoy a more primitive camping style without being too far off the beaten path. The free-to-use nature of the site also adds to its appeal, as it eliminates one of the barriers to enjoying a spontaneous trip into the wilderness.

The area surrounding the campground is full of opportunities for exploration. The Tishomingo National Wildlife Refuge itself offers a variety of activities for all ages. You can spend your days hiking the numerous trails, which provide a chance to observe the local wildlife, including various bird species and other animals in their natural habitat. The reservoir is a popular spot for anglers, and the peaceful waters are perfect for a quiet afternoon of fishing. With its peaceful setting and the potential for wildlife sightings, Reeve's Ravine North truly feels like a hidden treasure in the heart of Oklahoma.

Services Offered

Good for Kids: The natural setting provides a wonderful playground for children to explore and learn about the environment.
On-site Parking: A dedicated area for vehicle parking is available directly at the campground, making it easy to unload your gear.
Developed single campsite: The site is a developed camping area, complete with a picnic table and fire ring for your use.
Primitive facilities: The campground offers a primitive camping experience, meaning you should be prepared to bring your own supplies and handle your waste appropriately. This is not a site with amenities like flush toilets or showers.
Free camping: There is no cost to stay at this designated campsite, making it an excellent option for budget-conscious travelers.
Seven-night maximum stay: Campers are limited to a maximum stay of seven consecutive nights per visit, allowing for turnover and availability for more visitors.

Features / Highlights

Location on Reeve's Ravine Reservoir: The campsite is uniquely situated on the north shore of the reservoir, offering beautiful water views and easy access for fishing and nature observation.
Shaded area: The site is known for its ample shade, providing a cool and comfortable environment, especially during Oklahoma's warmer months.
Peaceful and spacious: Despite being a single campsite, it offers a spacious area, providing a sense of privacy and tranquility for campers.
Fire ring and picnic table: Each campsite is equipped with a fire ring for campfires and a picnic table for dining and gathering.
Wildlife and fishing opportunities: The Tishomingo National Wildlife Refuge is an excellent location for spotting local wildlife and enjoying a day of fishing in the reservoir.
Proximity to Tishomingo National Wildlife Refuge: The campground is a perfect base camp for exploring the wider refuge, including its extensive trail system and diverse ecosystems.

Contact Information

Address: Johnston County, OK 73460, USA

For general inquiries about the Tishomingo National Wildlife Refuge, which manages the campground, you can contact the refuge office.

Phone: (580) 371-2402

What is worth choosing

Choosing Reeve's Ravine North Campground for your next outdoor adventure in Oklahoma is a decision to embrace simplicity, nature, and peace. Unlike many commercial campgrounds, this location offers a genuinely rustic and serene experience that is increasingly rare to find. The lack of extensive amenities is not a drawback but rather an invitation to truly disconnect and appreciate the natural surroundings. It is a place where the sound of the wind in the trees and the quiet lapping of the water against the shore replace the noise of everyday life. This is the essence of why so many local Oklahomans are drawn to this spot.

For families, Reeve's Ravine North provides a safe and engaging environment for children to explore without the distractions of modern life. It's an opportunity to teach them about the importance of conservation and to instill a love for the outdoors. The spacious site allows for plenty of room for a game of frisbee or a simple nature walk. Anglers will find the fishing opportunities particularly appealing, with the reservoir being a popular spot for a variety of fish. The fact that the site is free also makes it an accessible option for everyone, from a solo camper seeking solitude to a family on a tight budget looking for a memorable weekend getaway.

The on-site parking is a practical convenience that makes setting up camp a breeze. The presence of a picnic table and fire ring means you can quickly get settled and start enjoying your time. The surrounding Tishomingo National Wildlife Refuge provides a wealth of recreational activities, from hiking and bird watching to simply enjoying a quiet moment on the water. It’s a campsite that feels both secluded and well-supported by the larger park system. In short, Reeve's Ravine North is a place to slow down, breathe in the fresh air, and appreciate the raw beauty that Oklahoma has to offer. It is a true local treasure, offering a tranquil and authentic camping experience for anyone who values the great outdoors.