Spring break has arrived and so has the rain. Several spring breakers headed to Devil’s Den this week to camp but the wet forecast is sending many packing.
Wayne Thomas and his friends came to Devil’s Den from Tulsa. He told 5NEWS he will not be sticking it out at the campsite.
“If it just keeps coming and going, you never know what’s going to happen so you might as well just pack up and leave because it could get worse,” said Thomas.
Devil’s Den State Park has had issues with flooding in the past. Tim Scott, Park Assistant Superintendent said this year, park rangers are doing all they can to keep visitors safe.
“We notify campers of areas that are prone to flooding and one of the campgrounds that does have potential flooding problems we have an early warning system. During the night we also make sure we monitor weather radios so if there’s a problem we can notify the campers to get out of there,” said Scott.
Park officials say those camping in tents are most likely to pack up and head home while those in RVs and travel trailers are more likely to ride it out.
Brian Kichlinn, a firefighter from West Fork, decided to finish out his camping trip.
“I am actually on the fire department at West Fork and I’ve got my pager with me. If the weather gets bad, they tone us out and I can help notify people to get them out of the area and get to higher ground and to a safe place,” said Kichlinn.
The soggy weather has dampened the spirits of some, but others are optimistic they can salvage their vacation.
“It’s a little irritating because we have to drive four hours back home so we are basically wasting a day of spring break,” said Thomas.
Thomas and his friends decided to pack up their tents, head back to Tulsa and camp at a friend’s house.
Flash flooding can be very dangerous and campers are asked to take it seriously.
If you decide to camp this spring break, officials suggest setting up in a high area away from rivers and creeks. Regardless of where you camp, staff should keep their visitors informed on upcoming weather conditions.