WASHINGTON IRVING SOUTH

Overview

Washington Irving South is located on the Arkansas arm of Keystone Lake, just 30 minutes from Tulsa. In Washington Irving’s book, “A Tour of the Prairies,” he mentions the area as where he crossed the Arkansas River during his travels. The park features a one-mile nature trail boat ramp, curtesy dock, playground, and multiple areas along the shores ideal for fishing. The lake’s blue-green water, beautiful natural surroundings and wide variety of recreational opportunities make it a popular location for year-round fun.

Recreation

Keystone Lake is a prime location for boating, water skiing, swimming and fishing. The lake is noted for its striped, sand, black and smallmouth bass, crappie and catfish. Downstream fisheries are accessible at nearby Whitewater and Brush Creek Parks.

The park features a boat ramp, dock, playground, swimming beach and a one-mile nature trail.

Facilities

This well-shaded campground features 20 reservable campsites, all with 30 amp electrical services, water hookups (seasonal), picnic tables, fire rings, and grills. This park also offers a restroom/shower facility, drinking water, and dump station. 

Natural Features

Keystone Lake is settled into many small valleys and contains almost 26,000 surface acres. Its 330 miles of shoreline are covered with bottomland timber and post oak, blackjack oak and prairie fields, which provide habitat for a variety of wildlife, including squirrel, rabbit, quail, dove and waterfowl.

Nearby Attractions

The 400-acre Appalachia Bay Recreation Area, locally referred to as Motorcycle Island, is just 10 minutes from the campground and is popular with off-road vehicle enthusiasts. Sandy trails crisscross the area’s beaches and wooded sections.

Whitewater Park is an 80-acre off-road vehicle area next to the dam, about 15 minutes from the campground.