Steel Creek Camping Area Parking Area #1 serves as the primary access point to Steel Creek Campground, located 3 miles east of Ponca off Highway 74 in Newton County.

The parking area provides access to tent camping sites, flush restrooms, and water throughout the campground, with sites available for reservation or first-come, first-served basis ($20/night March 15-November 14).

This location offers direct access to the Buffalo River for paddling and fishing, with nearby trailhead access to the Buffalo River Trail system.