Potato Hills Central
4.51151 reviews42160 SH 43, CLAYTON, OK, 74536, USA
Potato Hills Central
$20.00 - $24.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$150.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees vary based on site type and season. Peak season rates range from $20 to $24 for standard electric sites, and $150 for group sites.
About this campground
Nestled beneath a canopy of blackjack oak, post oak, and towering pines, Potato Hills Central Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts to discover the natural beauty of Sardis Lake. This well-appointed retreat offers the perfect blend of modern conveniences and wilderness charm, where electric hookups meet forest tranquility. Families can cast lines from accessible fishing docks, children can explore the playground between adventures, and hikers can set off on scenic trails that wind through the surrounding hills. After a day of exploration, hot showers await to wash away the trail dust and prepare you for another night under the stars.
Potato Hills Central offers diverse camping options, including individual and group sites with electric hookups. Equestrian-friendly camping is available, catering to horse riders. Tent camping is supported, though some sites were described as uneven or hard for staking tents.
Weather and SeasonsThe campground transforms with each passing season, offering distinct experiences throughout the year. Peak season stretches from April through October, when moderate temperatures create ideal conditions for camping, though nature occasionally flexes its muscles with dramatic wind displays and thunderstorms that roll across the lake. These weather events add excitement to the camping experience while reminding visitors of nature's power. Winter adventurers should come prepared for the rainy season, when trails may become muddy pathways that challenge hikers but reward them with fewer crowds and serene solitude.
Natural Features and SceneryThe campground serves as your gateway to an ecosystem where the Ouachita Mountain foothills meet the shimmering waters of Sardis Lake. Here, morning mist rises from the water to greet campers, while wildlife emerges from the diverse forest canopy for dawn and dusk performances. The interplay of water and woodland creates countless photo opportunities and quiet moments of natural wonder, where each campsite feels like a private viewing platform for nature's daily show.
Geological RegionPotato Hills Central sits proudly within the rolling foothills of the ancient Ouachita Mountains, where geological time has sculpted a landscape of gentle rises and hidden valleys. Sardis Lake and the meandering Jackfork Creek provide the lifeblood for this thriving ecosystem, supporting magnificent stands of blackjack oak, post oak, and pine that have claimed these hills as home. This unique geographical position creates a diverse habitat where mountain meets water, offering campers a front-row seat to one of nature's most successful collaborations.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible fishing docks and spacious campsites designed for large rigs with easy maneuverability.
Sites SizeCampsites are generally spacious, with some large enough to accommodate fifth wheels and motorhomes. Certain sites require additional leveling blocks due to uneven ground.
Sites PrivacySite privacy varies, with some loops offering well-spaced campsites surrounded by trees, while others are closer together.
Total Campsites233 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor level sites and proximity to water, D88 is recommended. For equestrian use, D85 is highly rated.
Best CampsitesCampsites with lake views like D88 and A19 are frequently praised for their scenic locations.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 days within a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Information not explicitly provided.
Groups
Group sites are available with large picnic areas, water, electricity, and grills. The pavilion accommodates group events, as noted in user reviews.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into multiple loops (A, B, C, D), each serving different types of campers including equestrian facilities in Loop D.
Open and Closed SeasonPeak season spans April 1 to October 30 annually.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityLimited walk-up availability, especially during peak season as the campground is heavily frequented.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations before the date of arrival incur a $10 fee and refund minus reservation fees and additional charges. Late cancellations (individual sites) forfeit the first night's fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Potato Hills Central Campground offers a range of recreational activities tailored to nature enthusiasts. Fishing in Sardis Lake is a popular choice, with species like bass, catfish, and walleye attracting anglers. Other water-based activities include swimming, canoeing, and jet skiing. Hiking trails provide opportunities for exploring the scenic surroundings of the Ouachita Mountains. Equestrian trails are available in specific loops, offering unique experiences for horse riders.
Hiking
Hiking trails are accessible directly from the campground. User reviews praised the trails' scenic beauty and tranquility, though one user pointed out a lack of well-marked trails in certain loops.Fishing
Fishing is a major attraction at Sardis Lake, with large prize bass and other species like catfish, walleye, and crappie. Reviews highlighted the accessible fishing dock and positive experiences, though some noted less productive fishing near certain campsites.Swimming
Swimming areas are available, though specific safety measures or facilities were not detailed in the reviews.Boating
Boating is supported on Sardis Lake, with reviews mentioning scenic views from the water. However, users expressed a desire for more boat ramps within the campground.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is popular, with sightings of birds, squirrels, geese, and even beavers reported. The lake is also home to bald eagles, particularly near the dam.Winter Activities
Horse trails are used for walks during fall and winter seasons. Users frequently noted the peaceful atmosphere during off-peak times.Water Sports
Jet skiing and canoeing are popular water sports at Sardis Lake. Reviews emphasized the tranquil experience on the lake.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings; firewood must be locally sourced due to invasive species restrictions.
- Quiet hours not explicitly mentioned in authoritative sources.
Hazards
General hazardsUser feedback highlighted poison ivy and sumac in some areas, as well as uneven terrain on some sites.
Active alertsWater boil orders were noted in past years as a recurring issue.
Weather forecast
74
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 80%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 9.7 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Mainly clear
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
Emergency services are available in Clayton, OK, which is approximately 2 miles away, including local clinics and fire departments.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 1 to October 30
Trash and recyclingDumpster facilities are available within short walking distances from most sites, but specific recycling provisions were not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresClose proximity to Sardis Lake, with several waterfront sites providing direct lake access.
Common complaintsComplaints include unlevel sites, muddy parking pads, outdated bathroom facilities, limited host availability, and neighbor noise.
HostMixed reviews about campground hosts; some users praised their friendliness while others found host availability lacking.
Campground Map
42160 SH 43, CLAYTON, OK, 74536, USA
Driving directionsFrom McAlester, Oklahoma, go south 4 miles on US-69 to Indian Nations Turnpike. Go south on Indian Nations Turnpike to Daisy, Oklahoma, 26 miles. Go east on State Highway 43 to Sardis Lake Office, 33 miles. Then drive north on State Highway 2 for 2 miles.
The campground is accessible year-round via paved roads, though some user reviews noted issues with muddy conditions at individual sites due to lack of gravel parking pads.Nearby places
McAlester, OK (approximately 33 miles), Daisy, OK (approximately 26 miles), Clayton, OK (approximately 2 miles)
Nearby supplies
Basic supplies such as groceries, fuel, and camping equipment can be found in Clayton, OK, located 2 miles from the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.5
151 reviews
Potato Hills Central is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are mixed, with an average campground sentiment rating of 4.36 out of 5. Positive highlights include cleanliness, scenic beauty, and helpful camp hosts. Complaints range from outdated facilities to issues with water and electricity hookups.
Review Summaries
Based on 151 reviews
What Campers Love
"Fantastic quiet place to camp and fish." "The camp hosts were very friendly and helpful." "Beautiful views, well-kept grounds." "The camp is impeccably clean."
Based on 151 reviewsCommon Concerns
Issues with uneven campsites and outdated bathroom facilities were common. Some users reported inconsistent electricity and water service. "Bathrooms were only mopped periodically not daily." "Some...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend bringing long hoses for water connections and leveling blocks for uneven sites. "Be prepared to share water hookups with neighboring sites." "Research campsite layouts to ensure...
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Seasonal Insights
Fall and winter seasons are praised for their tranquility and scenic beauty. Summer reviews often highlight the campground's popularity but recommend avoiding peak times to ensure privacy.
Based on 151 reviewsCamper Quotes
"This is a wonderful, wonderful campground." "Hot showers are a welcoming amenity at the end of an eventful day." "Fishing was bad at certain sites but enjoyable overall." "The campground is very...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site D88 was noted for its proximity to the lake and scenic views but was windy. Site D77 had complaints about muddy conditions after rain. Site A17 received praise for being well-kept but noted...
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Accessibility Features
Accessible fishing docks and spacious campsites are appreciated by users with disabilities. However, some reported struggles with uneven ground.
Based on 151 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet policies require leashes, but reviews reported dogs running free. "Pets must be on a six-foot leash at all times. Pets are not allowed on the beach."
Based on 151 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025