Sandy Cove
4.2953 reviewsU.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Canton Lake Office, 64600 N 2466 Rd., Canton, OK, 73724-9522, USA
Sandy Cove
$22.00 - $40.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$22.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Standard Electric site fees are $22 per night, while Group Shelter Electric fees are $40 per night. Additional reservation fees may apply depending on booking method.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine north shores of Canton Dam, Sandy Cove Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts to discover one of northwest Oklahoma's best-kept secrets. This woodland retreat seamlessly blends the tranquility of shaded forest groves with the excitement of lakeside adventures. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, taking a refreshing swim in the afternoon, or pursuing game through the surrounding wilderness, Sandy Cove offers an authentic escape where families can disconnect from city life and reconnect with nature.
Sandy Cove Campground offers both standard family sites and one group day-use shelter. It supports RV and tent camping but does not offer cabin or glamping options.
Historical SignificanceSandy Cove sits at the gateway to the renowned Canton Wildlife Management Area, a testament to Oklahoma's commitment to preserving its natural heritage. This protected landscape tells the story of successful conservation efforts, where generations of outdoor enthusiasts have come to experience the delicate balance between recreation and wildlife preservation. The area serves as a living classroom, demonstrating how thoughtful land management can create thriving ecosystems that benefit both wildlife and visitors.
Weather and SeasonsSandy Cove transforms with the seasons, each bringing its own unique charm to your camping experience. Spring arrives with comfortable temperatures in the mid-50s, perfect for hiking and wildlife watching. Summer invites you to bask in warm, sunny days reaching the mid-80s, ideal for beach activities and water sports. Gentle breezes keep even the warmest days pleasant under the canopy of oak trees. As autumn approaches, the campground becomes a photographer's paradise, though winter months see the grounds close their gates, allowing nature to rest and renew.
ElevationThe campground's gentle terrain creates an accessible outdoor experience for campers of all abilities, with natural contours that add character to each campsite without challenging accessibility.
Natural Features and SceneryA cathedral of blackjack and post oak trees creates a natural sanctuary at Sandy Cove, where dappled sunlight filters through the canopy to paint patterns on the forest floor. These native hardwoods provide generous shade for campsites while framing stunning views of the lake beyond. The campground's crown jewel is its access to sandy beaches that give the cove its name – rare treasures in Oklahoma where you can wiggle your toes in soft sand while gazing across the sparkling waters of Canton Lake.
Geological RegionPositioned in the rolling hills of northwest Oklahoma, Sandy Cove occupies a special place where the North Canadian River has carved its mark on the landscape. The distinctive woodland ecosystem of blackjack and post oak trees thrives in this transition zone, creating a unique habitat that showcases the region's natural diversity. This geological setting provides the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures, where ancient river valleys meet modern recreational opportunities.
Campsite details
Sites SizeSites are moderately sized to large, with some accommodating RVs up to 40 feet long. An individual stated, 'Tight fit for our 34 ft class A, but we got in there.'
Sites PrivacySite privacy varies. The campground features shaded areas, but some sites are noted to be close together, particularly at the front of the campground. One reviewer mentioned, 'The sites in the front are pretty close with no trees.'
Total Campsites35 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite #10 offers shade; back sites are quieter and more private. Sites #18 and #17 have been noted for overcrowding issues.
Best CampsitesSites toward the back of the campground are noted as preferable due to additional privacy and shade.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Arriving campers should check in as soon as possible after arrival. Gatehouse hours vary seasonally.
Check-out
Check-out time is unspecified in source materials.
Stay Limit
Campers can stay for a maximum of 14 nights during a visit, with a total limit of 14 nights within a rolling 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of two tents per campsite, or one RV and one tent per campsite.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes 35 family sites and one group shelter. Sites may require long water hoses or splitters due to shared water spigots.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season runs from April 1 to October 31. The campground is closed from November through March.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov, online or through the contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not explicitly described; reservations are encouraged.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled prior to the scheduled arrival date with a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations may also subtract the first night's recreation use fee from refunds.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Cell phone service
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Sandy Cove Campground provides a variety of recreational opportunities, including fishing, swimming, water sports, and more. Canton Lake is particularly renowned for its walleye fishing and hosts the Walleye Rodeo fishing derby annually in mid-May.
Fishing
Fishing is a flagship activity at Canton Lake, especially for walleye fishing. One user remarked, 'Hammered the walleye while trolling the beach.' The annual four-day Walleye Rodeo draws thousands of visitors during mid-May, highlighting the lake's reputation as a fishing hotspot.Swimming
A large swim beach is available, noted for its sandy and inviting environment. Multiple users praised it as a highlight of the campground. One review described it as, 'Nice and sandy, water was warm for swimming.'Boating
Boating activities such as personal watercraft use, tubing, and water skiing are popular. The broad expanse of water paralleling the dam offers a suitable area for these activities.Wildlife viewing
The surrounding Canton Wildlife Management Area provides opportunities to see species such as white-tailed deer, wild turkey, bobwhite quail, and waterfowl.Beach activities
Beach activities are popular, with reviewers emphasizing the 'sandy' and 'inviting' swim beach as a main attraction.Water Sports
Personal watercraft use, tubing, and water skiing are popular water sports available at the campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- No specific fire restrictions are mentioned; however, buying and burning locally sourced firewood is recommended.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly mentioned but issues with noisy neighbors are highlighted.
Hazards
General hazardsAnt infestations, trash issues, and poorly maintained facilities like water hydrants and grills are reported in reviews.
Active alertsSeasonal closures apply from November through March. The swimming beach is closed mid-October through April.
Weather forecast
63
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Foggy
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 96%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 10.2 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Foggy
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
The nearest emergency services are available in the town of Canton, including hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 01, 2025 - September 30, 2025 (Peak Season)
Trash and recyclingUsers frequently comment on litter issues, indicating inconsistent cleanup. One review stated, 'I must’ve picked up at least 50 little pieces of trash just around my site.'
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is near, but not adjacent to, Canton Lake. Sandy beaches and fishing spots are within walking or short driving distance.
Common complaintsIssues with ants, litter, noisy neighbors, and poorly maintained facilities, as well as rude behavior from staff and hosts, have been mentioned.
HostHosts are mostly praised for their courteousness but some complaints about unprofessional behavior have been recorded.
Campground Map
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Canton Lake Office, 64600 N 2466 Rd., Canton, OK, 73724-9522, USA
Driving directionsFrom Canton, OK: Go 0.5 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.
The campground is accessible via paved roads and is located near Highway 58A. However, the causeway entering the park is narrow, requiring slow driving and caution. Seasonal closures apply from November through March.Nearby places
Canton (5 miles, ~10 minutes), Roman Nose State Park (~30 minutes), Glass Mountains State Park (~30 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Several restaurants, a casino, and a golf course are within 3 miles of the lake. Grocery and camping supplies are likely available in Canton.
Camper Reviews
4.3
53 reviews
Sandy Cove is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Sandy Cove Campground receives mixed reviews. The location and natural beauty are commonly praised, but issues with maintenance, cleanliness, and insects detract from the experience. Several reviews highlight the swim beach as a standout feature.
Review Summaries
Based on 53 reviews
What Campers Love
Users frequently highlight the campground's swim beach, shaded sites, and family-friendly atmosphere. Comments like 'A beautiful, quiet escape' and 'Wonderful camp hosts' stand out as recurring...
Based on 53 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Cleanliness and maintenance are recurring complaints, with users mentioning litter, ant infestations, and poor bathroom conditions. One reviewer noted, 'The campground itself was the trashiest Corps...
Based on 53 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring a long water hose and a splitter due to the shared water access. Prepare for insects such as ants and mosquitoes, especially after rainy weather. It's also suggested to plan ahead for the...
Based on 53 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews highlight the swim beach and water sports, while fall reviews focus on hunting and fishing opportunities. Maintenance issues appear consistent across all seasons.
Based on 53 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'The park maintained most of the high standards of the Corps of Engineers. The only problem was no one picks the little trash up at the campsite.' 2. 'The ladies bathroom shower drain was plugged...
Based on 53 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #10 is noted for shade. Site #18 was criticized for a leaking hydrant. Site #20 is mentioned as tight for large RVs. Front sites are considered less private with fewer trees.
Based on 53 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be on a leash. They are prohibited from the Sandy Cove Beach Day-Use Area.
Based on 53 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025