Camping at Washington Irving South Campground
Washington Irving South Campground Overview
Washington Irving South Campground is one of the several campgrounds located near or around Keystone Lake in Oklahoma, not a state park but a part of the corps-managed recreation areas surrounding the lake. As such, the campground is managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers rather than a state park agency. Keystone Lake offers a variety of recreational activities including camping, boating, fishing, and swimming among others.
Location
Address: The campground can typically be found indicated on maps and GPS systems near Keystone Lake, but make sure to check the local Keystone Lake or US Army Corps of Engineers websites for the exact address or GPS coordinates.
Availability
Season: Many campgrounds in the US Army Corps of Engineers system are seasonal, so it's critical to check whether Washington Irving South Campground is open at the time you plan to visit. This can often vary due to weather conditions and local management decisions.
Reservations: Campsites may be available on a first-come, first-served basis, but reservations are often recommended, especially during peak season. Reservations can usually be made through the Recreation.gov website or by calling the reservation line.
Amenities
Facilities: Campgrounds like Washington Irving South commonly offer basic amenities which may include:
- Paved sites
- Picnic tables
- Fire rings
- Grills
- Restrooms with showers
- Drinking water
- Dump stations
Some sites may offer electric hookups, whereas others are more primitive.
Activities
Recreational Opportunities: Visitors to the area can enjoy activities such as:
- Boating
- Fishing (Keystone Lake is known for smallmouth bass, among other species)
- Swimming
- Wildlife viewing
- Water sports
- Hiking on designated trails
Rules and Regulations
Campfire Guidelines: There may be times when fire restrictions are in place. Campers should check the current conditions and follow any restrictions on open flames or firewood transportation.
Pet Policy: Pets are typically allowed in Army Corps campgrounds, but must be kept on a leash and supervised at all times. Verify specific rules at Washington Irving South Campground.
Quiet Hours: Most campgrounds enforce quiet hours, often from late evening to early morning, for the peace and enjoyment of all campers.
Safety Considerations
Weather Preparedness: Be prepared for weather changes, which can be sudden in Oklahoma. Have appropriate clothing and equipment to deal with both hot and cold weather conditions.
Wildlife: Properly store food to avoid attracting wildlife to the campsite, and be aware of any potential dangerous wildlife in the area.
Respecting the Environment
Leave No Trace: Campers should aim to leave the campsite in as good as or better condition than they found it, packing out all trash and minimizing their impact on the natural surroundings.
Resource Protection: Follow posted guidelines to protect flora and fauna, including not cutting down trees or disturbing wildlife.
Contact Information
For current information, contact the local management:
Army Corps of Engineers Office for Keystone Lake: They can offer the most current and detailed information about the campground, including any alerts or changes to operations.
Please note, it is always important to verify all information prior to your trip due to potential changes that could occur including renovations, closures, or updated policies.
