RV parks near Lawton, Oklahoma provide direct access to the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, situated at the eastern edge of the Great Plains region. Most campgrounds in the area sit at approximately 1,100-1,300 feet elevation, with temperatures ranging from summer highs around 95°F to winter lows near 30°F. Visitors need extra water hoses at many sites, particularly at Lake Lawtonka East Campground where connections can require up to 60 feet of hose.
What to do
Wildlife viewing at Wichita Mountains Refuge: Just a short drive from most Lawton campgrounds, visitors can observe free-ranging bison, longhorn cattle, and elk. The refuge offers multiple hiking trails with varying difficulty levels. According to one camper at Medicine Creek RV Military Fort Sill: "If you drive to Witchita Mountain Wildlife Refuge you may see elk, bison, Longhorns and deer. The hiking trails are great and worth the visit."
Mount Scott scenic drive: Take your vehicle to the summit for panoramic views of the surrounding plains and lakes. The paved road gains 800+ feet in elevation. A visitor at Lake Lawtonka East Campground mentioned: "Be sure to take a drive out mount scott and check out the parallel forest!"
Lake activities: Multiple campgrounds offer lake access for fishing, swimming, and boating. Water temperatures are comfortable from late spring through early fall. A camper at Lake Lawtonka East Campground noted: "We stayed for 3 nights, view of Mount Scott was amazing. Had our 2 golden retrievers with us and they loved the lake."
What campers like
Quiet locations away from city noise: Despite proximity to Lawton, many campgrounds offer peaceful settings. A guest at Medicine Creek RV Military Fort Sill shared: "This campground is on the base, but so quiet. Within a few miles of the campground is amazing fishing and hiking."
Concrete pads at Buffalo Bob's: The level concrete site pads make setup quick and easy. A reviewer noted: "Very clean with both pull thru and back in sites. It was perfect for being near family for the holiday." Another camper added: "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."
Lake views and sunsets: Campsites along Lake Lawtonka provide direct water views and mountain vistas. A camper described the experience: "We needed a quick spot for an impromptu camping trek so hike the Wichita mountains... Setup directly next to the lake and had a great view of Mt. Scott at sunset!"
What you should know
Base access requirements: Military campgrounds require proper identification. According to a review of Medicine Creek RV: "If you don't have a military ID you can stop at the visitor center and get a pass for your stay."
Highway noise at some parks: Several campgrounds, including Pecan Grove RV Resort, experience road noise due to proximity to highways. A camper noted: "The only reason I didn't give this park five stars is it it's right next to the interstate so there was quite a bit of freeway noise."
Bathroom facilities vary significantly: Many primitive camping areas have limited facilities. One camper at Lake Lawtonka East observed: "The only negative thing I have to say about this campsite is it there's no restrooms for the primitive camping areas. Both of them have only portable outhouses."
Payment systems: Some parks use honor systems or drop boxes. A visitor at Wichita Bend RV Park wrote: "Only $17 a night for water and 30 amp hookups... Honor system to pay."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Several lakes offer designated swimming areas for families with children. Lake Lawtonka includes a recreation area with additional amenities. One camper advised: "No playground for kids, but load up and go down to the rec area for picnicking, swimming and playground."
Bridge access to parks: Some campgrounds connect to additional recreational areas via walking bridges. A visitor at Wichita Bend RV Park noted: "Connected by walking bridge to great park area with waterfall."
Explore unexpected attractions: The area offers surprises beyond camping. A visitor shared: "We happened upon this lovely, and convenient park during an emergency situation with our vehicle... step out your door and over to the park - WOW, who knew Wichita Falls was so pretty?"
Tips from RVers
Electrical adapters needed: Lake Lawtonka East Campground requires specific equipment. One RVer advised: "All rv sites are 50 amp, so bring an adapter for your 30amp rig."
Electric pedestal location matters: Some sites require special positioning. According to one visitor: "Make sure you have a long electric cable. Service was on the wrong side if you want to face the lake."
Storm shelters available: Safety features exist at select RV parks in Lawton, Oklahoma. A long-term camper at Pecan Grove RV Resort highlighted amenities: "Propane on site, wifi, dog run, showers/bathrooms, laundry, & storm shelter."
Site selection considerations: Many campgrounds offer different site types based on rig size. One visitor at Wichita Falls RV Park shared: "We were in back-in site 20, which was level, shaded and plenty wide and long enough for our 35' MH and tow car. The pads are gravel with a paved pad for picnic table."
