About SANDY COVE
Overview Sandy Cove Campground is located on the north end of Canton Dam in northwest Oklahoma on the North Canadian River, just 5 miles from the town of Canton. Canton Lake hosts a large number of campers, picnickers, boaters, fishermen and hunters every year, as one of few places in western Oklahoma to offer all of these activities. Recreation Canton Lake is known for its fishing opportunities, especially walleye fishing. The Walleye Rodeo fishing derby is held annually in mid-May and draws thousands of visitors to the area for the 4 day event. Personal watercraft use, tubing and water skiing are popular on the broad expanse of water paralleling the dam where winds are subdued and gently sloping sandy beaches are inviting for swimmers and sunbathers. Facilities Though none of the campsites are adjacent to the lake, Sandy Cove is a very popular destination. It offers 35 family sites and one day-use group picnic shelter, all with electrical hookups. Amenities include flush and pit toilets, showers, drinking water and a large swim beach. Natural Features The campground is nestled in a woodland of blackjack oak and post oak trees, providing abundant shade for the camping environment. Nearby Attractions A major attraction for hunters is the 14,862-acre Canton Wildlife Management Area. This area, operated by the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation, is home to whitetail deer, wild turkey, bobwhite quail, rabbits, squirrel, dove and a variety of waterfowl. There are several resturants located within 3 miles of the lake and also a casino and 9 hole golf course. Roman Nose State Park and Glass Mountains State Park are only about a half hour or so drive from the lake.
How to Get There
From Canton, OK: Go .5 miles west on Highway 51, turn right (north) on Highway 58A and travel 2.3 miles. Turn right at the 3-way Stop intersection and continue on Highway 58A to the north end of the dam. The swimming area and campground are on the left.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
UPF sun shirt (long sleeve)
Cooler than direct sun on bare skin.
- 🩳
Light shorts/skirt
Loose-fit, breathable.
- 🧢
Wide-brimmed sun hat
Plus a buff/bandana you can wet for cooling.
- 🕶
Polarized sunglasses
Critical for glare from sun + sand/water.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection (UV 8)
SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm w/ SPF, sunglasses, sun hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to SANDY COVE
Heading to SANDY COVE? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for SANDY COVE?
No central reservation system listed for SANDY COVE. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233619) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to SANDY COVE?
From Canton, OK: Go .5 miles west on Highway 51, turn right (north) on Highway 58A and travel 2.3 miles. Turn right at the 3-way Stop intersection and continue on Highway 58A to the north end of the dam. The swimming area and campground are on the left.
How do I contact SANDY COVE?
You can reach the park at phone: 580-274-3576.
References & Official Resources
