Lake Lawtonka is a popular camping destination in southwestern Oklahoma, located near the granite peaks of the Wichita Mountains and just minutes from Medicine Park. The area sits at approximately 1,280 feet elevation with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 95°F. Winter camping remains available at many RV campgrounds near Medicine Park, Oklahoma, though nighttime temperatures can drop below freezing from December through February.
What to do
Hiking near Mount Scott: From Lake Lawtonka East Campground, visitors can access trails with views of the mountain. "We needed a quick spot for an impromptu camping trek so hike the Wichita mountains. The Wichita Reserve seemed to be closed to tent campers due to Covid, so we opted for this spot in a pinch. Setup directly next to the lake and had a great view of Mt. Scott at sunset!" notes reviewer Ryin J.
Wildlife viewing: The Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge houses free-roaming bison, longhorn cattle, and other native species. "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," says Kathi V. who stayed at Medicine Creek RV Park.
Water activities: Fishing and boating options abound on the lakes surrounding Medicine Park. The area includes trout fishing opportunities during cooler months. "Around the holidays it lights up and is just an all around good place to go for free," reports Marco about Lake Elmer Thomas Recreation Area.
What campers like
Military history: Military Park Fort Sill Medicine Creek RV Park offers a unique camping experience on an active military base. "This campground is on the base, but so quiet. Within a few miles of the campground is amazing fishing and hiking. Fort Sill is a nice base with everything you may need," explains a camper who appreciated the location.
Clean facilities: Many RV campgrounds in Medicine Park, Oklahoma maintain well-kept bathrooms and showers. "The bathrooms and showers were awesome. Full hook ups for a back in site for $40 per night," writes Lisa M. about Pecan Grove RV Resort. Another camper notes, "Whoever cleans the pit toilets has high cleanliness standards" at Camp Doris.
Spacious sites: Several campgrounds offer room between sites, unlike typical RV parks. "For being a RV park, the spaces were not right on top of each other like some parks are," according to Lisa M. at Pecan Grove RV Resort, making it more comfortable for extended stays.
What you should know
Military base access: When staying at facilities on Fort Sill, visitors need proper documentation. "If you don't have a military ID you can stop at the visitor center and get a pass for your stay," advises Rosemary M. about staying at Medicine Creek RV Park.
Water safety concerns: Check current water conditions before arrival. At Camp Doris, a camper reported: "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 and all water is considered unsafe, including all streams and lakes. Bring in your own water, the closest store is at least 30 mins away."
Training noise: Military operations may affect the camping experience. "Biggest con was absolutely no warning on their site that there is training going on all around the CG. If you have a Veteran with PTSD like I do prepare him/her that they shoot howitzer rounds at any given time," warns a visitor to Lake Elmer Thomas Recreation Area.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: Lake Elmer Thomas Recreation Area features family-friendly water activities. "A nice beach and cordoned swim area, complete with restrooms and shower house(11a-7p)…lifeguards," notes Dave V., who also mentioned watersports rentals, mini golf, and disc golf on site.
Wildlife education: The refuge visitor center provides educational opportunities. "The visitor center deserves at least an hour of time. Fabulous," writes Roger W. about the experience near Camp Doris.
Weekend planning: Arrive early for the best camping options. "Weekends at WMWR are very popular beginning early in the camping season making it difficult to find open spots by Friday evening. But that doesn't keep people from trying late into the night," advises Brad N. about Camp Doris.
Tips from RVers
Electrical connections: Buffalo Bob's RV Park in Lawton offers level sites with proper hookups. "We came to Lawton to see family for Christmas and this place was very clean with both pull thru and back in sites. It was perfect for being near family for the holiday," reports Kim S.
Site orientation: Position your RV strategically at waterfront sites. "Make sure you have a long electric cable. Service was on the wrong side if you want to face the lake," suggests Mimi B. about Lake Lawtonka East Campground.
Adapter requirements: Prepare for electrical hookup variations at regional campgrounds. Ashley H. advises about Lake Lawtonka East Campground: "Several sites have water and power at the pavilion, but many you will need about 60' of water hose. All rv sites are 50 amp, so bring an adapter for your 30amp rig."
