Dispersed camping options near Meers, Oklahoma include sites throughout the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge and surrounding lake areas. The region sits at approximately 1,600 feet of elevation with a semi-arid climate that experiences temperature fluctuations between seasons. Summer daytime temperatures regularly exceed 90°F while winter nights can drop below freezing, creating distinct camping conditions throughout the year.
What to do
Hiking Mount Scott: Access the summit via a paved 3-mile road for panoramic views of Lake Lawtonka and surrounding terrain. "Definitely spend time in the Medicine Park Wildlife Refuge Area. Drive, bicycle, run or walk up Mount Scott (rock climbing is permitted on Mount Scott)," notes a visitor at Military Park Fort Sill Lake Elmer Thomas Recreation Area.
Wildlife observation: Visit designated viewing areas to see native species in their natural habitat. "Check out the hundreds of free roaming LongHorns, Bison and prairie dog towns. Coyotes, various snakes and tarantulas can be seen through these hills," according to the same visitor.
Water recreation: Rent equipment at Lake Elmer Thomas for boating activities during summer months. "Canoe, kayak, paddle board and pontoon boat rentals to enjoy the lake. Fishing is permitted and schools of bluegill are seen along the shoreline. The water is incredibly clear," reports a camper at Lake Elmer Thomas.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Sites at several campgrounds provide ample room between neighbors. "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 a visitor at Camp Doris.
Lake views: Many sites offer direct water access and mountain vistas. A camper at Lake Lawtonka East Campground states, "We stayed at the East Campground on a Friday in early March, 2022. We were pleasantly surprised as we drove through the tent area. We found a spot we liked and drove across the highway to the Lake office and left our $10 fee in the drop box. Very quiet, beautiful lake view."
Abundant wildlife sightings: Regular encounters with local fauna enhance the camping experience. "We came when Doris Campground was full in the Wichita Wildlife Refuge and were pleasantly surprised. The sites we stayed in were on the lake. The sunsets and sunrises are gorgeous over the gentle slopes of the land," writes a visitor at Great Plains State Park Campground.
What you should know
Water quality concerns: Some campgrounds have ongoing issues with potable water. "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," cautions a camper at Camp Doris.
Military training activity: Nearby Fort Sill conducts artillery exercises that create noise at unpredictable hours. "Artillery range practice, though sporadic, takes place at any hour of any day. If you treat it like an unexpected fireworks display you'll actually look forward to it," mentions a visitor at Military Park Fort Sill.
Permit requirements: Some areas require specific permits for camping or recreation. "Besides having your boat tagged and state fishing licenses, you have to have lake permits. Stop by Ralph's Resort on the other side of the lake to purchase," notes a camper at Collier Landing.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds offer recreational facilities specifically designed for children. "There is a separate RV/Camper Loop near the entrance and is a little lower so does not have Lake views. A very nice mini-golf course is located across from the offices. Sand volleyball is next to the beach area. The beach and swimming area is manned by lifeguards from 11:00a-7:00p," explains a visitor at Military Park Fort Sill.
Wildlife education opportunities: Use animal sightings as learning experiences with safety precautions. "The Ferguson homestead still exists with its 'cannonball' architecture. Medicine Park Aquarium and Natural Sciences Center is worth a visit and reasonably priced," suggests another camper.
Tent separation from RVs: For quieter family camping, select tent-only areas when available. "We came out with a Girl Scout Troop a year later (October 2018). The park was very crowded, which is fine, but tent sites are mixed with RV sites. Not only was the noise from RVs disturbing, many sites had obnoxious guests who stayed up drinking all through the night. I really wish parks would separate tents from RVs," advises a camper at Great Plains State Park.
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: Plan for potentially inconvenient utility connections at some campgrounds. "Bring the long water hose! We are staying at the far end. The sites are nice. Covered picnic table on concrete w charcoal grill and stove tables. Even has a light over the table. Electric is on the pad, but the water spigot is 20-30' away," warns a visitor at Collier Landing.
Site selection for pet-friendly camping: Choose sites with adequate space for pets to exercise safely. "We had an awesome tent site, no 17. Not far from the boat ramp or restrooms. Geese abound. We saw several geese with their babies in the water and right next to our site," describes a camper at Great Plains State Park.
Weather preparation: Be ready for significant wind exposure in this region. "When we visited, the wind was very strong. I've been to the Wichita Mountains a ton and I know the wind can pick up quite a bit there, but without the shelter of the rocks/mountains, the wind can go wild here. If you get a campsite by the lake, make sure you're anchored in or by trees!" advises another visitor.
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