Sunset Bay Campground

Introduction / Overview

For Oklahoma residents searching for that quintessential, laid-back lakeside experience, Sunset Bay Campground on the shores of Heyburn Lake near Kellyville, OK, is the perfect destination. This peaceful campground offers a wonderful contrast to the often-crowded RV parks and large, structured recreation areas. Sunset Bay is managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and is known for its serene setting, emphasizing a truly natural and relaxed camping environment. It lies nestled among scenic grasslands and gently sloping, wooded hills, covered with a mix of oak, hickory, ash, elm, and cottonwood trees.

The spirit of Sunset Bay is one of casual, unplugged fun. As described by loyal visitors, if you are seeking a "laid back, casual, lazy day" where the "Kids in the lake, lounging in the shade," this is your spot. While it leans towards a more primitive camping style with its limited amenities, the campground is meticulously kept clean and offers the basics needed for a relaxing stay. It is particularly popular in the spring, when the scenery is enhanced by the colorful blooming of wild plum and redbud blossoms. For tent campers, fishermen, and boaters who value tranquility and direct access to Heyburn Lake's recreational opportunities, Sunset Bay Campground is a treasured gem in the Green Country region of Oklahoma.

Location and Accessibility

Sunset Bay Campground is conveniently located on the east side of Heyburn Lake in Creek County, near Kellyville, Oklahoma. The official address is listed as 23115 W Wekiwa Road, Kellyville, OK 74039. This location places it perfectly for access from major Oklahoma cities. Tulsa is approximately 25-30 miles to the northeast, making the campground an easy, short drive for a weekend escape from the city.

Accessibility is generally straightforward, though visitors should be mindful of navigating smaller county roads as they approach the lake. Directions often advise traveling from Bristow or Sapulpa via State Highway 66 and then onto smaller paved and possibly unpaved roads leading to the lake's east end. This secluded location is precisely why the campground maintains its quiet atmosphere. Importantly, the campground's proximity to Heyburn Lake ensures excellent accessibility for watercraft. The on-site boat launch ramp and courtesy dock make getting your boat or jet ski onto the water quick and hassle-free. The nearest towns, Kellyville and Bristow (about 10 miles away), provide accessible spots for purchasing last-minute supplies, groceries, or gas, ensuring you are well-provisioned for your primitive lakeside retreat.

Services Offered

As a US Army Corps of Engineers campground, Sunset Bay focuses on providing improved tent camping facilities and essential lakeside access points, maintaining a rustic but comfortable experience.

• Campsites: The campground offers a small, intimate number of sites, typically noted as having only 14 improved tent campsites.
• Hookups: The sites at Sunset Bay are generally considered primitive/non-electric tent sites. However, water hydrants for potable water are confirmed to be located throughout the park.
• Restroom Facilities: The campground provides vault toilets (outhouses) for restrooms. Flush toilets and showers are available at the larger, nearby Heyburn Park facility, but not typically at Sunset Bay itself.
• Picnic Amenities: Each campsite is furnished with a picnic table and built-in cooker/grill for preparing meals over a fire or charcoal.
• Water Access: A dedicated boat launch ramp and a courtesy boat dock are available on-site for easy access to Heyburn Lake.
• Pet Policy: Pets are allowed, provided they are well-behaved and kept on a leash, in line with typical USACE park regulations.
• Firewood/Charcoal: Visitors are encouraged to bring their own firewood or charcoal for use in the provided cookers.

Features / Highlights

Sunset Bay Campground's features emphasize classic, relaxed outdoor fun, making it a unique and charming destination for those who appreciate natural beauty and simplicity.

• Lakeside Immersion: The core highlight is the direct access to Heyburn Lake for activities like swimming, fishing, and boating. Campers can choose lakeside sites that offer stunning views and immediate proximity to the water.
• Water Recreation: Reviewers confirm the swimming is great, even noting the "squishy mud bottom" of the lake near the dock adds to the natural, casual feel. It’s a perfect place for kids to play and enjoy the water near the dock.
• Shade and Relaxation: The sites are beautifully shaded by a mix of mature hardwood trees, creating plenty of spots for lounging in the shade and hanging up a hammock, as recommended by past guests.
• Fishing Opportunities: Heyburn Lake is a popular spot for anglers, with confirmed catches including bass, crappie, sunfish, and catfish. The on-site boat ramp and dock directly support fishing excursions.
• Natural Trails: Visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing in the surrounding wooded hills and wilderness areas, with a nearby trail leading to an overlook point of the Heyburn Dam.
• Peaceful Ambiance: The small number of sites (only 14) ensures a quiet, low-traffic experience, allowing campers to truly "escape the rat race and relax in the great outdoors."

Contact Information

As an improved tent campground managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers, reservations for Sunset Bay are typically made through the national recreation booking system. For general inquiries, the Corps of Engineers lake office is the best contact point.

Address: 23115 W Wekiwa Road, Kellyville, OK 74039, USA (Located on Heyburn Lake)

Phone (Heyburn Lake Office - Corps of Engineers): (918) 865-2621 (Primary for Campground/Lake Info) or (918) 247-6601

Reservations: Bookings can be made through the official national recreation website, searching for "Sunset Bay Campground, Heyburn Lake."

Seasonality: The campground is typically open seasonally, usually from April 1st through October 31st. Always confirm operating dates before planning your trip.

What is Worth Choosing Sunset Bay Campground

For Oklahomans weary of high-cost, over-developed, or overcrowded camping destinations, Sunset Bay Campground on Heyburn Lake offers a compelling and valuable alternative. It is truly worth choosing for several distinct reasons that appeal to the core principles of an easy, natural escape.

Firstly, it offers an authentic, primitive lake camping experience that is increasingly rare. It is perfect for those who embrace the "primitive, but so are you" philosophy mentioned by a happy customer. It allows you to truly unplug, set up a hammock, and relax in the natural environment. While it lacks electricity at the sites, this intentional simplicity is a major benefit for those seeking peace and quiet away from the bright lights and noise of RV generators.

Secondly, the direct and high-quality access to Heyburn Lake is the main draw. With an on-site boat ramp and courtesy dock, it provides easy entry for fishing boats, jet skis, and recreational swimming. The close proximity of the campsites to the water, including waterfront tent sites, means the entire experience is centered around lake activities—from watching the sunset over the water to an evening swim near the dock.

Finally, its small size and USACE management ensure that the grounds remain peaceful, clean, and well-maintained. With only 14 tent sites, the campground never feels chaotic or overly busy. If your goal is a casual, lazy, and affordable weekend of swimming, fishing, and lounging under the beautiful Oklahoma oak trees, Sunset Bay Campground is the clear choice for a genuine, laid-back lake adventure.