Potato Hills South
4.3916 reviewsHC 60 Box4195, Clayton, OK 74536, USA
Potato Hills South
$16.00 - $75.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$16.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$75.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The peak season nightly rates for camping at Potato Hills South range from $16 for standard non-electric sites to $75 for group shelter electric sites. Additional fees may apply, including reservation service fees ranging from $3 to $9 depending on the booking method.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine shoreline of Sardis Lake in southeast Oklahoma, Potato Hills South Campground beckons adventurers seeking the perfect blend of water recreation and mountain scenery. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, launching your boat for a day of water sports, or gathering the family for a lakeside picnic, this waterfront haven offers endless possibilities. The campground's well-maintained boat ramps provide easy lake access, while the playground keeps young campers entertained and the shaded picnic areas invite leisurely afternoon gatherings with panoramic water views.
Potato Hills South Campground accommodates standard camping setups, including tent and RV camping and group shelter facilities.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the gentle rhythm of Oklahoma's moderate seasons at Potato Hills South, where dry conditions and comfortable temperatures create an inviting camping environment year-round. The most magical camping weeks arrive when crystal-clear skies stretch endlessly above and temperatures hover between a crisp 35°F and a pleasant 50°F – perfect for cozy campfire evenings and invigorating morning hikes. With minimal rainfall and rare snowfall, you'll find more days suited for outdoor adventures than taking shelter, making this an ideal destination for fair-weather campers and seasoned outdoors enthusiasts alike.
Natural Features and ScenerySardis Lake's sparkling waters create a stunning centerpiece for your camping experience, reflecting the surrounding Ouachita Mountain foothills like a natural mirror. This breathtaking landscape serves as more than just a scenic backdrop – it's a thriving ecosystem where wildlife flourishes across more than 8,000 acres of protected propagation areas and public hunting zones. From your campsite, watch eagles soar overhead, spot deer emerging from the forest edge at dusk, and listen to the symphony of native birds welcoming each new day. The interplay of mountain, forest, and water creates an ever-changing canvas of natural beauty that transforms with each passing hour.
Geological RegionDiscover camping at the crossroads of mountain and water, where the ancient Ouachita Mountain foothills cradle the expansive Sardis Lake. This remarkable reservoir owes its existence to Jackfork Creek, a winding tributary of the mighty Kiamichi River that has carved its path through these hills for millennia. The unique geology of this transition zone, where rugged mountain terrain meets gentle waterways, creates diverse habitats and stunning vistas that showcase the raw beauty of southeast Oklahoma's varied landscape.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features include shaded campsites and the availability of life jackets free of charge at the swimming site. Additional details about ADA compliance or specific adaptations are missing.
Sites SizeUser reviews mention that campsites are fairly spread out, providing ample space between sites. Exact measurements are not provided.
Sites PrivacyCampsites offer a reasonable level of privacy, with several reviewers appreciating the spread-out layout.
Total Campsites233702 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites near the playground may experience higher activity and occasional wildlife. For privacy and shade, sites 017 and 018 are recommended.
Best CampsitesSome sites noted for privacy and cleanliness include sites 015, 017, and 018. Site GDS-A praised for landscaping and scenic views.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Up to 14 nights during a visit, with a total of 14 nights within rolling 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Exact number of guests per site is unspecified.
Groups
Group shelters are available with electric hookups. Pavilion facilities can accommodate up to 50 people but have minimal trash disposal provisions as noted by user reviews.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites are relatively spread out, providing privacy and a tranquil experience.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from April 1, 2025 to October 31, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov online, contact center, or app.
Walk-in AvailabilityInformation not explicitly provided, but walk-up availability may be limited.
Cancellation PolicyChanges made to reservations incur a $10 fee unless extending or shortening your stay. Cancellations before arrival incur a $10 fee plus forfeiture of the first night’s fee for late cancellations. No refunds post-check-in day.
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
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Potato Hills South Campground offers diverse recreational activities, leveraging its location near Sardis Lake and the nearby Ouachita Mountains. Official sources emphasize fishing, boating, water sports, and hiking as the main activities, complemented by amenities like a playground and picnic area. User reviews additionally highlight memorable family gatherings and peaceful settings for relaxation.
Hiking
Nature trails offering scenic views are accessible near the campsite. Specific trail lengths and difficulty levels are not provided.Fishing
Sardis Lake is renowned for its fishing, producing several of Oklahoma's largest bass species. Crappie, walleye, and catfish are also common catches. Users did not provide additional feedback about fishing.Swimming
Swimming facilities include a designated beach area, which campers reviewed positively. Life jackets of various sizes are available free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis, a feature appreciated by users.Boating
Boat ramps are available for visitors, supporting recreational boating and water sports. Specific types of boats or docking facilities are not detailed.Wildlife viewing
The campground is located near a public hunting and wildlife propagation area spanning over 8,000 acres. Wildlife enthusiasts can enjoy observing species native to southeast Oklahoma.Beach activities
Beach activities include swimming and sunbathing. Users mention the beach as a highlight, but some lament the lack of showers nearby.Winter Activities
No winter activities, such as snow sports or ice fishing, are noted for Potato Hills South.Water Sports
Potato Hills South supports water sports, including swimming and boating. Specific details about kayaking, paddleboarding, or other non-motorized sports are not provided.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed within designated areas. Firewood restrictions are in place to prevent invasive species.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife such as copperhead snakes may be encountered near playgrounds. Spider webs were reported in pavilions.
Weather forecast
74
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 80%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 7.2 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
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
Closest hospital and emergency services are in Clayton, approximately 10 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 01, 2025 - October 31, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash disposal facilities are reported to be minimal, with only one trash can provided for pavilion gatherings of up to 50 people. This has been highlighted as inadequate by several reviewers.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located directly on the shoreline of Sardis Lake.
Common complaintsRecurring complaints include lack of showers, non-functional electricity in some areas, and graffiti on structures. Minimal trash disposal options for large groups were mentioned.
HostHosts are noted for being attentive and helpful. "Peter S" commended the hosts for handling generator-related disturbances.
Campground Map
HC 60 Box4195, Clayton, OK 74536, USA
Driving directionsFrom US-69, turn south on Indian Nations Turnpike and continue approximately 26 miles. Turn east on State Highway 43 to Sardis Lake Office, and after about 33 miles turn north on State Highway 2 and continue two miles to the campsite.
The campground is accessible via paved roads, and the directions provided are clear and straightforward for navigation.Nearby places
Clayton (approximately 10 miles).
Nearby supplies
Basic supplies are likely available in Clayton, 10 miles away. For more options, visitors can rely on nearby towns along major highways.
Camper Reviews
4.4
16 reviews
Potato Hills South is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Potato Hills South are generally positive, with common themes including the campground's cleanliness, shaded campsites, and family-friendly atmosphere. Complaints primarily focus on the lack of showers and minimal trash disposal facilities for group gatherings. Sentiment scores suggest satisfaction overall, with a campground-specific average of 3.9375.
Review Summaries
Based on 16 reviews
What Campers Love
Many users praised the campground's clean and well-maintained grounds, shaded sites, and peaceful atmosphere. Features like free life jackets at the swimming site and friendly staff were also...
Based on 16 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Negative reviews frequently mention the lack of showers, graffiti on some facilities, inadequate trash disposal, and occasional generator use in tent areas that disturbed other campers.
Based on 16 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing your own trash bags due to limited disposal facilities and planning shower needs in advance, as the nearest facilities are at Potato Hills Central Campground. Campers also...
Based on 16 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews do not explicitly address seasonal trends, but the campground operates from April to October, which aligns with favorable weather conditions for camping. User experiences during Labor Day and...
Based on 16 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. "Best beach ever! Great restroom facilities, great campground and picnic areas. A real hidden gem!" - Aaron Dowdell
2. "We spend every labor day there. Beautifully maintained campgrounds. Peaceful...
Based on 16 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews highlight issues with graffiti and electrical functionality at pavilion site GDS-B. Campsite 012 lacks electricity and modern bathrooms, while campsite 017 is noted for its...
Based on 16 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility feedback is limited but includes positive remarks about shaded campsites and free life jackets at the swimming facility. No specific comments about ADA compliance or infrastructure for...
Based on 16 reviewsShow more
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed at Potato Hills South Campground but must be kept on a six-foot leash at all times. Pets are prohibited from the beach area, as indicated in the rules. User reviews do not elaborate...
Based on 16 reviewsShow more
Last updated August 10, 2025