Camping around Meers, Oklahoma offers access to the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, characterized by ancient granite peaks rising to 2,464 feet in elevation. Located in the southwestern portion of Oklahoma, the area experiences hot summers with temperatures frequently exceeding 95°F and mild winters, making late spring and early fall the preferred camping seasons. Road access varies significantly between established campgrounds, with some requiring high-clearance vehicles during wet conditions.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge houses free-roaming bison, longhorn cattle, elk, and deer throughout the area. "Within a few miles of the campground is amazing fishing and hiking. Fort Sill is a nice base with everything you may need. If you drive to Witchita Mountain Wildlife Refuge you may see elk, bison, Longhorns and deer," notes a visitor at Military Park Fort Sill Medicine Creek RV Park.
Hiking trails: Several campgrounds provide direct access to hiking paths with varying difficulty levels. "The hiking trails are great and worth the visit," continues the same Military Park Fort Sill reviewer. At Camp Doris, a camper mentions, "Hiking trails can be accessed directly from Doris Campground, or there are numerous other trails in other areas a short drive away."
Mount Scott drive: This scenic road climbs to one of the highest points in the area, offering panoramic views. One camper at Lake Lawtonka East Campground advises, "Be sure to take a drive out mount scott and check out the parallel forest!"
What campers like
Lake access: Many campgrounds feature lakeside locations with water activities. "Plentiful campsites with several spots right on the lake! Fairly close rather and no way to book ahead but we definitely enjoyed the location!!" reports a visitor at Lake Lawtonka East Campground.
Historical attractions: The area contains significant military history sites. A camper at Lake Elmer Thomas Recreation Area notes, "Military CG on Fort Sill's base. Spent 5 weeks here. Scenery and base is beautiful. It's in the Wichita Mountains near Mt Scott and Medicine Park. Clean lake with paddle boat and kayak rentals. Mini golf, beach and water slides. Nice museum and Indian Cemetaries on base."
Wildlife diversity: Visitors frequently mention wildlife encounters as a highlight. The same Lake Elmer Thomas camper continues, "Saw geese, fox, Coyotes, Buffalo, prairie dogs and rattle snakes."
What you should know
Water safety concerns: Some campgrounds have reported water quality issues. At Camp Doris, a camper warns, "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."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly across the area. At Camp Doris, one camper reported "No bars at Campground. 2 bars outside of visitor center."
Military training activity: RV camping near Meers, Oklahoma sometimes includes unexpected noise from nearby Fort Sill. A visitor to Lake Elmer Thomas Recreation Area cautions, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Several campgrounds feature designated swimming areas. Lake Elmer Thomas Recreation Area provides "A nice beach and cordoned swim area, complete with restrooms and shower house(11a-7p)…lifeguards."
Kid-friendly amenities: Look for campgrounds with developed recreation facilities. Lake Elmer Thomas offers "Mini golf course" and "Disc golf course" according to a recent visitor.
Site selection for tents: When tent camping with children, consider the site layout. At Pecan Grove RV Resort, a camper notes, "For being a RV park, the spaces were napart from each other. not right on top of each other like some parks are."
Tips from RVers
Hookup configurations: Many RV sites require specific equipment. At Lake Lawtonka East Campground, one RVer advises, "All rv sites are 50 amp, so bring an adapter for your 30amp rig. No playground for kids, but load up and go down to the rec area for picnicking, swimming and playground."
Water hose requirements: Some sites have unusual water connection placements. The same Lake Lawtonka East reviewer continues, "Several sites have water and power at the pavilion, but many you will need about 60' of water hose."
Site access considerations: RV camping near Meers requires attention to site dimensions. At Buffalo Bob's RV Park, a visitor explains, "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."
