Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge Hiking
Located in the mountainous region of the mostly flat-lands of Oklahoma, the Wichita Mountains are home to some great recreation – like Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge hiking.
Wichita Mountains
The Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge is located 25 miles to the northwest of Lawton, Oklahoma, and about one and a half hours southwest of Oklahoma City. This refuge is a 59,020 acre piece of relatively untouched grasslands, and it is one of the few places in the United States that is still a mixed grass prairie. This unique combination of grasslands and mountains means that there are many different animals that can call the refuge home – including bison, Rocky Mountain elk, and Texas longhorn cattle.
For people who want to do more strenuous activities than just watching wildlife, Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge hiking is excellent for testing your skills. The geological background of this area, dating back to over 300 million years ago, is such that there are many different types of terrain available for both hiking and climbing. There are several mountains located within the refuge that are able to be used by hikers, and these include Mount Scott, the Meadows, and Panther Canyon. Each has their own unique properties and challenges.
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There are many mapped trails in the wildlife refuge, and it is easy to obtain a trail map at any of the park's entrances or online. You can also choose to take a guided hike or wildlife walking tour that will take you through some of the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge hiking hotspots. While hiking, you can marvel at the wildlife and wildlands, but be aware that many activities are restricted within the refuge due to its nature. First and foremost, this area is a sanctuary to the plant and animal life that lives here, so you must be aware at all times of your actions.
If you choose to spend the night in the wildlife refuge area, it is important to note that there are a few camping sites or campgrounds within the refuge itself. Doris Campground is a fee-based campground located about two miles from the wildlife refuge Visitors Center. There are also group campground areas within Doris Campground, but these must be reserved in advance. A Youth Camp is also located within the grounds of the refuge, for those who plan to be camping with youth – such as the Boy Scouts.
While it is not the most well known area of the country for camping and hiking, Oklahoma does have some interesting terrain not found elsewhere. Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge hiking gives you the added excitement of seeing some beautiful animals and scenery while you are hiking.