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Famous Landmarks in Wichita Mountains

Famous Landmarks in Wichita Mountains

Wichita Mountains Oklahoma, USA Travel Guide

Highlights

The Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge boasts stunning natural and historical landmarks. Check out these unique sites to recognize the region's rich heritage and natural beauty.

Each landmark has a different facet of the area, from ancient geology to successful conservation efforts and deep cultural roots.

Mount Scott Summit

  • Panoramic views of refuge and plains from the top.
  • Accessible via a paved road winding to its summit.
  • Typically open during daylight hours, closes at dusk.
  • Winding road, not for vehicles longer than 30 feet.

Iconic Landmarks

Prominent Features

  • Mount Scott: Second highest peak, 360-degree views of refuge. Sacred site for Native American tribes. Drive slowly for wildlife.
  • Holy City of the Wichitas: Replica of ancient Jerusalem. Setting for America's longest-running Passion Play (Easter week). Open daily, free entry (donations).
  • Prairie Dog Town: Large, active black-tailed prairie dog colony. Observe from a distance; do not feed. Accessible via main scenic drive.
  • Bison Range: Renowned genetically pure American Bison herd. Bison roam freely, often visible along main scenic drive. Maintain safe distance (100 yards).
  • Binoculars will greatly enhance your viewing experience for wildlife and far away views.
  • Visit early morning or late afternoon for best light and fewer crowds.

Less Crowded Times

  • Weekdays: Significantly fewer visitors compared to weekends.
  • Early Morning/Late Afternoon: Ideal for wildlife viewing, photography, avoiding midday heat.
  • Off-Season (July-August, Dec-Feb): Offers the most solitude, though some facilities may have reduced hours.
  • Hiking Trails: Many trails, especially in wilderness areas, allow for a peaceful escape from main scenic drive.

Planning your visit strategically leads to a more serene experience.

Museums & Cultural Institutions

  • Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center: Exhibits on refuge history, geology, wildlife, conservation. Gift shop, maps available.
  • Gallery of the Great Plains (Lawton): Human and natural history of the Great Plains. Collections feature Native American culture, pioneer life.
  • Fort Sill National Historic Landmark and Museum (Lawton): Preserves historic buildings from frontier army post. Exhibits on military history, Native American history. Valid ID for base entry.
  • Mattie Beal Home (Lawton): Beautifully preserved historic Victorian home. Glimpse into early 20th-century life and the 1901 land lottery.

Historical Sites

  • Medicine Park:

    The entire town is a historic district designation, known for its distinctive cobblestone architecture, dating to its establishment as Oklahoma's first resort town.

  • Fort Sill National Historic Landmark:

    Features numerous original buildings from the 19th and early 20th centuries, linking to frontier military life.

  • Holy City of the Wichitas:

    A significant religious and spiritual destination for Christians, especially during the annual Easter Passion Play.

  • Quanah Parker Star House Replica:

    Located near Cache, a replica of the home of Quanah Parker, last principal chief of the Comanche Nation.

  • Industrial/Military Heritage:

    Fort Sill, an active US Army post, has a long history and functions as a premier artillery training center. The museum provides deep insight.

Natural Attractions

The refuge holds many natural wonders.

Parks & Wildlife Viewing

  • Wichita Peaks Wildlife Refuge:

    Main natural attraction, over 59,000 acres of diverse ecosystems.

  • Mount Scott Summit:

    Unparalleled 360-degree views of the refuge and plains.

  • Jed Johnson Lake:

    A scenic lake surrounded by granite outcrops, for fishing and picnicking.

  • Bison Range:

    Bison roam throughout the refuge, often seen alongside the primary scenic drive.

  • Prairie Dog Town:

    A designated area where it's possible to observe black-tailed prairie dogs.

  • Birdwatching:

    A outstanding birding hotspot with over 240 species recorded, especially at lakes and ponds.

Geological Features

The mountains are remnants of an ancient range, composed mainly of granite, gabbro, and rhyolite. They display unique rock formations and outcrops.

Balanced Rock

A prominent, naturally occurring rock formation exists within the Charon's Garden Wilderness Area, seemingly defying gravity.

Forty-Foot Hole

A deep, natural pool in West Cache Creek, carved by water erosion over millennia, a secluded and scenic spot for exploration.

Lakes & Waterways

The refuge and surrounding area include several lakes and streams that cater to various water activities.

  • Lake Elmer Thomas: Popular for fishing, boating (powerboats allowed), and swimming (designated area season-basedly).
  • Lake Lawtonka: A larger lake just outside the refuge, presenting similar leisure activities to The lake Elmer Thomas.
  • Quanah Parker Lake: A smaller lake within the refuge, known for its fishing opportunities and calm waters.

Hidden Gems

Seek out some of the less-known but equally rewarding places for an unique experience.

These locations provide solitude and a new perspective on the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge.

Off-the-Beaten-Path

Explore these secluded spots for adventure and tranquility.

Locations

  • Forty-Foot Hole: Requires moderate hike/scrambling, leads to a beautiful, deep pool perfect for wading or seasonal swimming. Check water depth.
  • Charon's Garden Wilderness Area: Offers true seclusion and stunning rock formations away from main roads. Take a Topographic map.
  • Eagle Mountain: Less visited than Elk or Mount Scott, offers a different perspective and a challenging hike with fulfilling vistas.

Local Favorites

Discover spots that are cherished by locals and less visited by tourists.

Community Gems

  • Boulder Park (Medicine Park): A collection of large granite boulders, popular with local children for climbing and playing, a natural playground feel in town.
  • Local fishing spots: Explore smaller lakes within the refuge, like French Lake or Rush Lake, which are often quieter and favored by local anglers.
  • Emerging destinations: Development of new trails or improved access points to existing natural areas as the area grows in open-air activities popularity.

Photography Tips

The refuge has endless opportunities for striking photographs. Capture the beauty of the landscape and its inhabitants.

Scenic Shots

  • Mount Scott Summit: Capture stunning sunrise or sunset views with colors washing over the landscape.
  • Parallel Forest: The precise, geometric lines of the planted red cedar trees create unique photographic compositions.
  • Reflections: Photograph the ancient mountains reflected in the still the waters of the refuge lakes at dawn or dusk.

These moments offer tranquil beauty.

Wildlife Photography

Capture images of the diverse wildlife while maintaining a respectful distance.

Tips for Wildlife

Always prioritize animal welfare over a photograph.

Night Sky Photography

The refuge has dark skies away from city lights, making it ideal for astrophotography.

Astrophotography

  • Capture star trails or the Milky Way on clear nights.
  • Minimize light pollution by stopping at into the refuge.
  • Bring Binoculars for optimal viewing.

Check moon phases for best results.

Explore Local Experiences

Attraction Tickets

Discover and book tickets for various local attractions and tours through GetYourGuide.

Guided Tours

Find guided tours that offer insights into the refuge's history, wildlife, or geology.

Special Events

Check for special events, temporary exhibits, or ranger programs at the Visitor Center and local museums.

Important Notes for Sightseeing

Always adhere to refuge rules and regulations. Review any seasonal closures or alerts before your visit to ensure smooth access.
Famous Landmarks in Wichita Mountains. Attractions, Monuments, Sightseeing