General Information and Regulations

Here, in the unspoiled reaches of the Refuge, visitors have the opportunity to broaden their knowledge and appreciation of the natural environment. Through direct exposure to wildlife and wildlands, visitors may experience a personal re-creation and a renewed commitment to the value of environmental stewardship. The natural attractions of the Refuge are many and varied. In addition to viewing and photographing wildlife in their natural setting, the lakes, streams, canyons, mountains, and grasslands provide visitors with an ideal setting for hiking, fishing, and other permitted outdoor activities.

How to Enjoy the Refuge

The Refuge is maintained in a natural and wild condition. Visitors must be prepared to meet nature on its terms. Due to OPEN RANGE management, motorists must drive defensively and be alert for hazards caused by wandering buffalo, longhorn, deer and elk. Reduced night speed is enforced due to the difficulty of seeing wildlife on the roads at night.

The Scenic Highway, which crosses the Refuge, offers only an introduction to the Wichitas. A drive to the top of Mt. Scott affords visitors with a panoramic view of the Wichita Mountain range. Interspersed between mountain peaks, visitors may view some of the last untilled native prairies in the United States.

Activities enjoyed by many Refuge Visitors include picnicking, camping, hiking, photography, rock climbing, attending a bison or longhorn auction, or participating in one of the many scheduled tours. We always welcome new volunteers to assist with the many projects on the Refuge.

Refuge Headquarters

The Refuge Headquarters is located 25 miles northwest of Lawton, Oklahoma and functions as a secondary Visitor Contact Station to the Visitor Center. The Headquarters can be contacted by mail or telephone. A 24-hour emergency telephone is located at the rear of the Refuge Headquarters office along with handicapped access to the building.

Public Facilities

Drinking water may be obtained at the parking lot in front of the Refuge Headquarters, Visitor Center, and at the Quanah Parker Environmental Education Center turn-off. Handicapped access is available.

Restrooms are available at all picnic areas, at the Visitor Center during open hours, and at Lake Elmer Thomas parking lot. Restroom facilities are handicapped accessible.

A public pay telephone is available at Doris Campground.

General Regulations

• Possession of alcoholic beverages is prohibited on the Refuge, including the camping and picnicking areas.
  
  
• Public Access, use, or recreational activities not specifically allowed are prohibited. Compliance with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations including all official signs is required.
  
  
• For a complete copy of Wildlife Refuge Regulations, see the Code of Federal Regulations Title 50 at the Visitor Center or Refuge Headquarters.
  
  
• Allowed recreational activities, points of interest, and facilities are marked by symbols along roadsides or in recreation areas located in the Public Use Area of the Refuge.
  
  
• Fires are allowed only in those areas where camping and picnicking are allowed. They must be built in grates and grills provided for that purpose. Dead fallen timber may be used. Fires must not be left unattended and must be completely extinguished before leaving the area. During periods of very high fire danger (as noted by signs at Refuge entrances), wood fires may be prohibited. Check at the Visitor Center, Headquarters or the Doris Campground for verification. The use of campstoves and charcoal in grates and grills is allowed during high fire danger periods.
  
  
• Swimming, wading, and snorkeling are prohibited on the Refuge.
  
  
• Hiking, sightseeing, nature observation and photography are allowed during daylight hours only. Night fishing in designated lakes and through traffic are allowed after dark.
  
  
• Searching for treasure or artifacts and gold panning are prohibited on the Refuge.
  
  
• General camping is permitted only in Doris Campground. Youth camping is available at Fawn Creek Campground by reservation. Backcountry camping is available by permit in the Charon's Garden Wilderness Area.