Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge: Scenic Natural Beauty
The Wichita Mountains, worn by time and nature, loom large above the prairie in southwest Oklahoma, providing a long-term refuge for wildlife. Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, located just outside the Lawton/Ft. Sill area, protects approximately 60,000 acres of mixed grass prairie, ancient granite mountains, and fresh water lakes and streams for the benefit of wildlife and the American people. Wichita Mountains, best known for its roaming herds of bison, longhorn, and Rocky Mountain elk, also provides excellent opportunities for wildlife-dependent recreation such as fishing, bird watching, wildlife photography, hiking, camping, and kayaking.
The Wichita Mountains, which march majestically across the southwestern corner of Oklahoma, provide a natural habitat for roaming Texas Longhorn cattle and bison, prairie dogs, and a variety of other native wildlife residents. This region also has stunning natural scenery; on the drive up to Mount Scott's summit, you'll see a number of vistas as well as unspoiled views of the Lake Lawtonka reservoir from rock faces begging to be climbed.
- Getting there: About 90 miles from Oklahoma City, the quickest route is to drive 55 miles south on I-44 south, then west on OK-49.
- Travel tip: Before or after your visit, feast on what have been called the best burgers in the state at the Meers Store and Restaurant.
Google rating: 4.8/5.0
Location: Oklahoma, USA
Phone: 1-800-344-9453
Website: https://www.fws.gov/refuge/wichita-mountains
