Reeve's Ravine North Campground

For Oklahomans seeking an authentic, peaceful, and, importantly, free camping experience, Reeve's Ravine North Campground in Johnston County offers an outstanding option. This isn't a bustling private resort, but rather a cherished, developed single campsite nestled within the beautiful Tishomingo National Wildlife Refuge. It's designed for those who appreciate the quiet solitude of nature, direct access to water for fishing, and the simple joys of primitive camping under a canopy of shade.

Reeve's Ravine North, along with its counterpart Reeve's Ravine South, are considered among the most popular single campsites within the Tishomingo Wildlife Management Unit. This popularity is well-deserved, stemming from the "plenitude of shade," "great views of Reeves Ravine Reservoir," and the generally "spacious area" it provides for a single site. For locals, this means a reliable spot to escape the summer heat, enjoy scenic vistas, and spread out comfortably, even though it's a single, dedicated site.

Operated by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, Reeve's Ravine North adheres to the mission of the Tishomingo National Wildlife Refuge, which focuses on protecting and managing habitat for migratory birds and other wildlife, while also providing compatible recreational activities. This means visitors can expect an environment where nature is prioritized, offering excellent opportunities for wildlife observation, photography, and fishing in accordance with state and refuge regulations. It’s a place where you can truly immerse yourself in Oklahoma’s natural heritage.

The campsite's design is particularly well-suited for self-sufficient campers. While it offers basic amenities like a picnic table and fire ring, visitors are expected to bring everything else they need. This aligns perfectly with the boondocking style of camping that many Oklahomans enjoy, where independence and minimal impact on the environment are key. The site is noted to accommodate cars, vans, and pickup truck campers, with room for "three to four of these vehicles," providing flexibility for small groups or multiple vehicles within a single party. However, those with trailers larger than 20 feet should exercise caution due to limited turn-around space, emphasizing its more rustic nature.

Reeve's Ravine North also holds a reputation as a "popular fishing camp." This highlights its appeal to anglers looking for direct and easy access to the reservoir. Imagine waking up, stepping out of your tent or RV, and being just steps away from casting your line into the waters of Reeves Ravine Reservoir. For Oklahomans who love to fish, this provides an immediate and convenient gateway to their favorite pastime, all within a tranquil and picturesque setting.

In summary, Reeve's Ravine North Campground offers an invaluable resource for Oklahomans: a free, shaded, and spacious single campsite with great views and direct water access, managed by the Tishomingo National Wildlife Refuge. It's an ideal choice for those who appreciate primitive camping, cherish solitude, and enjoy fishing and wildlife viewing in one of Oklahoma's beautiful natural areas.

Location and Accessibility

Reeve's Ravine North Campground is located in Johnston County, OK 73460, USA. Its more precise location is within the Tishomingo National Wildlife Refuge, along Management Unit Road, specifically on the north shore of Reeves Ravine Reservoir. The GPS coordinates for the campsite are approximately 34.1879, -96.6956. This places it in the south-central part of Oklahoma, near the town of Tishomingo, offering a balance of natural seclusion and reasonable proximity to basic services.

Access to Reeve's Ravine North is via Management Unit Road, which is typically a firm-packed gravel road, making it accessible for most 2WD vehicles. However, prospective campers should be aware that while the site is considered "developed" with basic amenities, it's still a single, primitive campsite. The access road leading to the specific site may be narrow, and the turn-around room is limited. This means that while cars, vans, and pickup truck campers will generally find it easy to maneuver, trailers longer than 20 feet might encounter difficulties and should scout the site beforehand if planning to bring a larger rig.

Being part of the Tishomingo National Wildlife Refuge, the campground is situated within a protected natural area. This environment ensures minimal disturbance and offers visitors the chance to observe local wildlife. The nearby town of Tishomingo provides essential services such as gas stations, convenience stores, and basic dining options. This allows campers to stock up on supplies before heading into the refuge, ensuring a comfortable and self-sufficient stay. The strategic location provides a genuine wilderness experience while still being within reach of necessary amenities, making it a practical choice for Oklahomans.

Services Offered

• Free camping (no permit required).
• Developed single campsite.
• Picnic table at the site.
• Fire ring available for campfires.
• Ample shade provided by mature trees.
• Great views of Reeves Ravine Reservoir.
• Spacious area around the campsite.
• Suitable for cars, vans, and pickup truck campers (room for 3-4 vehicles).
• Limited turn-around room (not ideal for trailers over 20 feet).
• Popular for fishing (direct access to Reeves Ravine Reservoir).
• Maximum stay of 7 nights per visit.
• Managed by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (Tishomingo National Wildlife Refuge).
• Cellular service (Verizon Wireless 4G, typically 1 bar).

Features / Highlights

• Free & Accessible Camping: One of the most significant highlights is that Reeve's Ravine North offers free camping, requiring no permit. This makes it an incredibly affordable and accessible option for Oklahomans.
• Scenic Lakeside Views: The campsite boasts "great views of Reeves Ravine Reservoir," providing a picturesque backdrop for relaxation and outdoor activities.
• Abundant Shade: Described as having a "plenitude of shade," this is a crucial feature, especially during Oklahoma's warm seasons, ensuring a comfortable camping experience.
• Popular Fishing Spot: It is known as a "popular fishing camp," offering direct and convenient access to the reservoir for anglers of all skill levels.
• Secluded & Spacious: Despite being a single site, it offers "lots of solitude" and a "spacious area," providing a peaceful and uncrowded environment ideal for quiet enjoyment of nature.
• Wildlife Refuge Setting: Located within the Tishomingo National Wildlife Refuge, campers are immersed in a protected natural habitat, offering excellent opportunities for wildlife observation and birdwatching.
• Suitable for Smaller Rigs: While not for large RVs, its suitability for cars, vans, and pickup truck campers caters to a broad segment of the camping community who prefer more agile and self-contained setups.
• Basic Comforts Provided: The presence of a picnic table and fire ring ensures basic comforts for dining and campfires, enhancing the primitive camping experience.
• 7-Night Maximum Stay: Allows for a decent duration of stay, enabling visitors to fully explore the area and enjoy an extended period of relaxation.
• Some Connectivity: While minimal, the presence of 1 bar of Verizon Wireless 4G can be a convenient feature for those who need occasional connectivity even while enjoying a primitive experience.

Contact Information

Address: Johnston County, OK 73460, USA (within Tishomingo National Wildlife Refuge)

GPS Coordinates: 34.1879, -96.6956

Refuge Office Phone: (580) 371-2402 (Tishomingo National Wildlife Refuge Office)

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Reeve's Ravine North Campground stands out as an exceptionally suitable destination for Oklahomans seeking a genuine and accessible outdoor escape. Its most compelling attribute for locals is its status as a free, developed single campsite within the Tishomingo National Wildlife Refuge. This offers an unparalleled opportunity for budget-conscious families and individuals to experience the beauty of Oklahoma's natural landscape without the financial commitment often associated with recreational travel. It allows for spontaneous and regular trips, fostering a deeper connection with our state's diverse environments.

The prime location on the north shore of Reeves Ravine Reservoir, coupled with its reputation as a "popular fishing camp," makes it an ideal spot for Oklahoma's robust angling community. Direct access to the water means less hassle and more time spent enjoying the thrill of the catch. Beyond fishing, the scenic views and "plenitude of shade" provide a serene backdrop for relaxation, picnicking, and simply unwinding amidst nature's tranquility. For anyone looking to escape the summer heat and enjoy picturesque lakeside moments, this site offers immediate gratification.

Furthermore, the primitive yet "developed" nature of the campsite, complete with a picnic table and fire ring, caters perfectly to the self-sufficient spirit of many Oklahoma campers. It's a place where you can bring your own gear and create your own adventure, free from the crowds and strictures of more commercialized parks. The ability to accommodate cars, vans, and pickup truck campers, even with limited turning room, means it's accessible to a wide range of vehicles commonly used for outdoor excursions by local residents.

Lastly, being part of the Tishomingo National Wildlife Refuge enriches the entire experience. It means visitors are camping within a protected area dedicated to wildlife conservation, offering unique opportunities for birdwatching and observing Oklahoma's diverse fauna. For Oklahomans, Reeve's Ravine North Campground is more than just a place to stay; it's an invitation to embrace responsible outdoor recreation, connect with our state's natural heritage, and discover a peaceful sanctuary right in our own backyard.