Keystone State Park
Tucked away in the northeastern part Oklahoma, Keystone State Park is an attractive public recreation space that is centered around the stunning Keystone Lake.
A veritable stone’s throw from Tulsa, which is a mere 20 minute drive away, and Pittsburgh in Pennsylvania, which is 40 minutes away, the park makes for a perfect day trip destination for residents of both cities.
But to only come here for a few hours would really not do your visit justice, because this Oklahoma park offers some of the most beautiful scenery in the whole of the Sooner State.
It also provides a wealth of outdoor recreational activities like swimming, hiking, fishing, boating, picnicking, camping and winter sports too.
Which makes it the perfect place to escape to when you want to reconnect with nature and calm your mind from the frenzy of big city life.
Activities
On both water, and land, Keystone State Park provides the visitor with the opportunity to enjoy a variety of outdoor leisure activities.
This includes the likes of swimming, hiking, fishing, boating and in the winter, a fabulous range of snow related activities.
If you would prefer a more gentler pursuit, there is also a familiar beach to sunbathe on, as well as plenty of picturesque lakeside spots for a picnic.
Boating at Keystone State Park
As you would expect, given it covers a size of nearly 80 acres, the Keystone Lake is a haven for those who enjoy boating activities.
The likes of kayaking, SUP, canoeing and row boating are all regularly practiced here and if you don’t have your own equipment, you can also rent a canoe or kayak once you get there.
For those planning to bring their own boat, please note, only electric motors are permitted here.
Swimming at Keystone State Park
Nestled on the banks of Keystone Lake, is a terrific swimming beach that is open every day between Memorial Day and Labor Day from 8 AM until sunset.
As well as enjoying a refreshing dip in the lakes cooling waters, this beach is the perfect spot to sunbathe, relax and top up your tan.
During the swimming season, a food concession stall, right near the beach, serves hot and cold food. So you don’t need to stray too far from your spot when those hunger pans hit.
Hiking at Keystone State Park
For hiking enthusiasts there are plenty of trails that will enable them to explore the park’s wonderful landscape in closer detail.
In the summer, many of the wooded trails provide welcome shade on hot days, while the stunning colors in the fall will captivate you with their beauty.
One of the most popular trails is the 1.5 mile Stone Lodge Trail, which is a steep loop that runs along a ridge that is well suited for experienced hikers.
Another is The McCune Run Trail which is a much shorter hike that will take you to a scenic beaver pond.
The Lake Side Trail is another well worn two-mile trail that circles the beautiful Keystone Lake.
Fishing at Keystone State Park
If you are into fishing you should enjoy the prospect of casting a line at Keystone.
Recently voted one of America’s top family fishing destinations by the Take Me Fishing Organization, the lake is well stocked with both warm and cold water fish.
Anglers can expect to catch plenty of trout, black crappie, largemouth bass and yellow perch without too much effort.
Picnicking at Keystone State Park
The scenic banks of Keystone Lake make the perfect spot for a family picnic.
Around the lake, and throughout the park, there are lots of different places where you can set yourself up. Either by putting a blanket on the ground, or by using one of two pavilions which are perfect for larger groups.
These pavilions are situated on the north side of the lake and also below the dam, and are equipped with charcoal grills, electric outlets and drinking water.
Enjoying Winter Recreation at Keystone State Park
Just because it’s cold or snowy in the park in winter, doesn’t mean the fun should stop, because that is when it takes on another fabulous recreational dimension.
When the snow comes, opportunities for ice skating, cross-country skiing, sledding and even snowshoeing on the trails abound. All of which will provide you with hours of fun and enjoyment.
Pets at Keystone State Park
The park is quite pet friendly and even allows you to bring your dog into some of the cabins.
Some restrictions may apply, so it is worth contacting the park office to see what they might be.
Camping at Keystone State Park
Accommodation at Keystone State Park is contained within three campgrounds – the Green Country, Lake Country and Red Carpet.
All three campgrounds feature RV sites with full hookups, that include either a 30 or 50 amp electricity. There are also several spots for tent camping available too. All of which can be reserved online.
In addition, the park offers 22 cabins that are all appointed with bathrooms and fully equipped kitchens which have stoves, refrigerators and a microwave.
The cabins vary from one bedroom to those that offer multiple. They all have a fireplace to keep you warm in the winter months, as well as satellite TVs. A couple of them even have jacuzzi bathtubs.
For a small charge, pets are allowed in some of the one and two-bedroom cabins.
Amenities at Keystone State Park
Other amenities in the park include a restroom with toilets and showers. a camp store, dump station, and gift shop.
There is also a park ranger onsite, as well as a playground for kids and a restaurant.
Park Location
Keystone State Park 1926 S Hwy 151 Sand Springs, OK 74063 Phone: 918.865.4991
Map
Video
Below is a brief YouTube video showcasing different things to do at Keystone State Park:
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Oklahoma state parks free?
Yes, Oklahoma state parks are free to enter for day use. There are no vehicle permits or entrance fees. Camping, cabin, and lodge fees apply separately.
What are the best state parks in Oklahoma?
Top parks include Beavers Bend (mountain forested river), Natural Falls (77-foot waterfall), Robbers Cave (historic outlaw hideout), Turner Falls (swimming waterfall), and Roman Nose (red mesa canyon).
Can I swim at Turner Falls in Oklahoma?
Yes, Turner Falls Park features a 77-foot waterfall with a natural swimming pool at its base. It is Oklahoma’s oldest park and one of the most popular swimming destinations in the state, especially in summer.
Are there lodges at Oklahoma state parks?
Yes, many Oklahoma state parks feature excellent lodges and restaurants. Beavers Bend, Quartz Mountain, and Roman Nose lodges are popular. Reservations recommended, especially for holiday weekends and fall foliage season.
Explore More Oklahoma State Parks
Keystone State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Oklahoma. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Oklahoma guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
