About WASHINGTON IRVING SOUTH
Overview Washington Irving South is located on the Arkansas arm of Keystone Lake, just 30 minutes from Tulsa. In Washington Irving's book, "A Tour of the Prairies," he mentions the area as where he crossed the Arkansas River during his travels. The park features a one-mile nature trail, boat ramp, courtesy dock, playground, and multiple areas along the shores ideal for fishing. The lake's blue-green water, beautiful natural surroundings and wide variety of recreational opportunities make it a popular location for year-round fun.Recreation Keystone Lake is a prime location for boating, water skiing, swimming and fishing. The lake is noted for its striped, sand, black and smallmouth bass, crappie and catfish. Downstream fisheries are accessible at nearby Whitewater and Brush Creek Parks.The park features a boat ramp, dock, playground, swimming beach and a one-mile nature trail. Facilities This well-shaded campground features 20 reservable campsites, all with 30 amp electrical services, water hookups (seasonal), picnic tables, fire rings, and grills. This park also offers a restroom/shower facility, drinking water, and dump station. Natural Features Keystone Lake is settled into many small valleys and contains almost 26,000 surface acres. Its 330 miles of shoreline are covered with bottomland timber and post oak, blackjack oak and prairie fields, which provide habitat for a variety of wildlife, including squirrel, rabbit, quail, dove and waterfowl. Nearby Attractions The 400-acre Appalachia Bay Recreation Area, locally referred to as Motorcycle Island, is just 10 minutes from the campground and is popular with off-road vehicle enthusiasts. Sandy trails crisscross the area's beaches and wooded sections. Whitewater Park is an 80-acre off-road vehicle area next to the dam, about 15 minutes from the campground.
How to Get There
From Tulsa, Oklahoma, take Highway 412 west for 15 miles to Bears Glen exit. Turn left at stop sign onto the Frontage Road and drive 1 block. Turn right at first paved road and follow 2 miles to the campground entrance.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed 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 WASHINGTON IRVING SOUTH
Heading to WASHINGTON IRVING SOUTH? 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 WASHINGTON IRVING SOUTH?
No central reservation system listed for WASHINGTON IRVING SOUTH. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233667) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to WASHINGTON IRVING SOUTH?
From Tulsa, Oklahoma, take Highway 412 west for 15 miles to Bears Glen exit. Turn left at stop sign onto the Frontage Road and drive 1 block. Turn right at first paved road and follow 2 miles to the campground entrance.
How do I contact WASHINGTON IRVING SOUTH?
You can reach the park at phone: 918-865-2621.
References & Official Resources
