Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge borders Lawton, Oklahoma, offering visitors over 59,000 acres of diverse terrain. Elevations range from 1,100 to 2,464 feet, creating dramatic landscapes within this granite mountain range. The refuge experiences temperature swings from below freezing in winter to over 100°F during summer months.
What to do
Hiking Mount Scott: Access one of the most popular viewpoints in the Wichita Mountains, where you can drive or hike to the 2,464-foot summit. At Camp Doris, visitors appreciate the convenient trail access: "Hiking trails can be accessed directly from Doris Campground, or there are numerous other trails in other areas a short drive away," notes Brad N.
Lake activities: Rent watercraft from Lake Elmer Thomas Recreation Area for a day on the water. "Nice lake with paddle boat and kayak rentals. Mini golf, beach and water slides," reports Mimi B. The recreation area offers canoes, kayaks, paddle boards and pontoon boats with water that is "incredibly clear."
Wildlife viewing: Set aside early morning or evening hours for the best wildlife spotting opportunities. "Take the time during the first hour of sunrise and the last hour before sunset to drive around to look at wildlife. I was able to see elk, deer, turkeys, and of course the bison and longhorns which are out and about all day," suggests Lauren W.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the well-maintained grounds at campgrounds near Lawton. "The campgrounds were very well maintained, maps were very easy to navigate! I felt safe setting up my tent and leaving it for the day while our group went out to hike," writes Meaghan V. about Doris Campground.
Lakeside camping: Direct water access is a highlight for many visitors to Lake Lawtonka East Campground. "Plentiful campsites with several spots right on the lake! Fairly close rather and no way to book ahead but we definitely enjoyed the location!!" notes Jenna L. These sites offer excellent views of Mount Scott across the water.
Family-friendly areas: Recreation options keep families busy throughout their stay. "There is enough to stay busy right here at LETRA. Canoe, kayak, paddle board and pontoon boat rentals to enjoy the lake. Fishing is permitted and schools of bluegill are seen along the shoreline," shares a visitor to Lake Elmer Thomas Recreation Area.
What you should know
Artillery training: The proximity to Fort Sill means unexpected noise is common. "The campground is positioned along the northern side of the Artillery range. Yes, you will see and hear C-Ram's lighting up the sky randomly during the day and night hours, as well as other ordinance," explains a camper at Military Park Fort Sill Lake Elmer Thomas Recreation Area.
Water issues: Some campgrounds have water limitations. "Please note that at the time of this review (3/2020) there is NO potable water anywhere in the WMWR. An e.coli contamination in 2017 is still not resolved and any an all water is considered unsafe, including all streams and lakes. Bring in your own water, the closest store is at least 30 mins away," warns Rebecca A.
Weather extremes: The climate can be challenging regardless of season. One visitor notes the area was "unseasonably windy and bitter cold in mid-October" while summer brings "blistering hot and cloudless" days with constant strong breezes.
Tips for camping with families
Recreation options: Multiple playgrounds provide entertainment for children at various locations. "Playgrounds are located in the RV/Camper loop, outside the beach area and along the tenting area before you reach the cabin rentals," notes a visitor, adding that "A very nice mini-golf course is located across from the offices."
Swimming areas: The beach at Lake Elmer Thomas Recreation Area offers supervised swimming during summer. "The beach and swimming area is manned by lifeguards from 11:00a-7:00p and offers a huge restroom/showers/changing rooms building," explains Dave V.
Educational stops: While camping, visit the refuge educational facilities. "The visitor center deserves at least an hour of time. Fabulous," recommends Roger W. Additionally, the "Medicine Park Aquarium and Natural Sciences Center is worth a visit and reasonably priced."
Tips from RVers
Base access procedures: RVers staying at military facilities should plan for entry requirements. "Passes must be acquired at the Visitor's Center at the Sheridan Entrance (plan for an hour) for each adult over 16. You must have a valid/current Drivers License, Passport or other recognized government ID. They do a background check before you qualify for a pass," explains a camper at Fort Sill.
Gate information: Use the correct entrance when visiting military recreation areas. "Do not use Letra Gate. It's closed. Ignore GPS and go to Apache Gate. Better yet set GPS for Apache Gate. It's the quickest route and you won't have to drive through the busy base and narrow roads," advises Mimi B.
RV site selection: For pet-friendly camping near Lawton, Oklahoma, choose your site location carefully at Buffalo Bob's RV Park. "It's a nice clean Park, easy in and out. It's on the plain side, but all the sites have concrete pads and a little bit of space between rigs," notes Robert R., making it comfortable for both pets and owners.
