Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge

Category: Wildlife refuge in Indiahoma, Oklahoma

Address: 32 Refuge Headquarters Road, Indiahoma, OK 73552, USA

Phone: +15804293222

Opening hours

Sunday: 9AM–5PM

Monday: 9AM–5PM

Tuesday: 9AM–5PM

Wednesday: 9AM–5PM

Thursday: 9AM–5PM

Friday: 9AM–5PM

Saturday: 9AM–5PM

Reviews

Melissa Tipton

Apr 7, 2022

Such a fantastic place to hike! This was my first time, and I spent a couple hours hiking the trails in Dog Hollow before driving to the prairie dog town, a couple of the lakes, and a mountain trail. Everything was just stunning, and the trails were well maintained and clearly marked. The bison are all over the place and just extraordinary to watch, and the longhorns were beautiful. If you’re looking to see prairie dogs, I actually saw a lot more near the Holy City (see the two black dots on map image) than at the official prairie dog town. They’re so ridiculously cute!

Wes Foster

Mar 9, 2022

We absolutely love this. We have been camping and hiking here since 2001. We just returned home from a week at the Refuge and it never disappoints. You can make all your reservations online. Camp Doris is our favorite place to camp. We love hiking the Narrows, The 40 Ft Hole, Mt. Scott, the Longhorn trail (which is the backside of the Kite Trail system), as well as the Charon Gardens Wilderness area. We will go back year after year.

Rachel Kleuser

Feb 15, 2022

A very beautiful awe inspiring place. So much to see and so many trails to cover. The only downfall is the Visitor Center has been closed for nearly 2 years due to Covid.

Maria Zeee

Nov 30, 2021

Who would have known this place is older than Rocky Mountains?!! Came here in May and in November witnessing beauty of both seasons, the wild flowers, animals and full body of water in the spring and the vibrant colors in the fall. Absolutely love this place. The Boulder scrambling and caves searching are sooooo fun.

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Questions & Answers

Is there Camping?

Laura Smith | Jun 26, 2020
Stacy Speir | Jun 27, 2020

Yes there are multiple camp grounds here.

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Is the refuge open on memorial day tomorrow?

Kristina Rorrer | Jun 27, 2018
Andrew Lee | Jun 28, 2018

Yes

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Is the National animal refuge open today?

Iva Chapple | Jun 27, 2018
Stephanie Roane | Jun 28, 2018

Yes. Till sunset. Visitor center may be closed.

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Does it have to be during open hours to visit?

Elisabeth Olsen | Jun 27, 2018
Emily Malsam | Jun 28, 2018

Any pull offs or trails are closed between sunset and sunrise. Main roads are open for travel. Doris Campground gate is open until 10 pm I think and reopens at 8 am.

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Is there rv camping with water and electricity?

Sharon Anderson | Jun 26, 2021
Achilles Pill | Jun 27, 2021

Yes on the east side of lake Lawtonka. There might be a couple other spots.

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Is primitive camping allowed?

Mark Compton | Jun 26, 2020
Rick | Jun 27, 2020

Yes

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Can you kayak at the lake?

Deborah Duhon | Jun 27, 2018
Kevin Fontenot | Jun 28, 2018

Yes there are several lakes you can kayak but not all so watch for signs

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Is there camping or hotels nearby?

Tracy Lee | Jun 27, 2018
Tim Sprik | Jun 28, 2018

Inside the park is Doris Campground. I would look up their Facebook page for more information. My son I just camped on the Eastside of Lake lawtonka. It was a great, great spot. 30 ft from the water. Very private. Nice view of Mount Scott. Only downside was having to drive 10 to 15 minutes into the park

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how do I contact someone at the visitor center

Melisa Snyder | Jun 27, 2018
Holly Devine | Jun 28, 2018

You can find the phone number on their website

What are the laws on filming in the refuge?

Beanz B. Drummmin | Jun 27, 2018
Joshua Leach | Jun 28, 2018

It has to be for personal use, otherwise they require you to have a permit now. Anything for commercial use will require it

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Is there anywhere with a Pavillion area or several picnic tables together that would accommodate 20 or so people to have a picnic?

Carly Messersmith | Jun 27, 2018
Carly Messersmith | Jun 28, 2018

Thank you everyone!! I appreciate your replies!

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Is camping permitted

dale Johnson | Jun 27, 2018
Dawn Cooper | Jun 28, 2018

Yes. Campsites are mostly flat with covered patio, wood picnic table, extra table and a light with a switch. Bring your own light bulb.

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Are dogs allowed?

Samantha Martinez | Jun 26, 2020
Kristen Rambo | Jun 27, 2020

Yes. Leashed

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Are all the roads paved? Are there windy roads? And is there a spot for primitive camping?

George Mardoyan | Jun 26, 2020
Ricky Jenkins | Jun 27, 2020

Yep to all of the questions. Get ready for the time of your life. This place is WONDERFUL and there's not that many people who even know about or visit this place. Really really truly truly beautiful and peaceful. Thanks Shalom SHABBAT

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Do groups ever get together to conduct trail maintenance?

Josh Contreras | Jun 26, 2020
Nyxie B | Jun 27, 2020

I've never seen civic groups doing any kind of maintenance, but that is a great idea !

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Are there tent campgrounds here?

A E | Jun 27, 2019
The Dae | Jun 28, 2019

Yes there are tent camp grounds there. Just watch for the buffalo and wildlife. There is also camping at the lake right next to the refuge and a swimming area that they charge a small fee to do

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Can you get fairly close to the bison and elk in your car?

Theresa V | Jun 27, 2019
Mike Blankenship | Jun 28, 2019

The longhorns are usually in the road, you usually see the Buffalo at a distance, and the elk maybe farther if you are lucky. On foot on the trails like Charon's Garden I have walked around buffalo. You need to not get any closer than 20 yards or so. I have also seen Elk up close in some wooded areas. Remember they are wild animals, so keep some distance.

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Are they open for MLK day tomorrow? Also asking because of the government shutdown. Any and all help would be greatly appreciated before I drive out 2 hours!

zach george | Jun 27, 2019
Letuhia White | Jun 28, 2019

To the best of my knowledge they are open and not sure about My. Scott itself

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Are they open year round? I was wanting to go in December as part of my road trip

Emily Marie | Jun 27, 2019
Christie W | Jun 28, 2019

Yes, except for major holidays. Everything other than camping closes at sunset. I recommend hiking the Charon's Garden Wilderness trail if you are stopping by the Refuge!

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How much is it

cindy buoy | Jun 27, 2019
Ryan Jones | Jun 28, 2019

There is no fee to access the park. There are fees for campground usage, not sure how much those are.

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Does it cost anything to get in?

Gina Bowerman | Jun 27, 2018
Randy Sanders US | Jun 28, 2018

No, Its a federal reserve. But I called about a backpacking hike and they require advance notice by email. I would contact the Witchita Mnts Visitors Center for details before a visit. But most is free. Mt Scott is free to drive or hike up.

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Do yall take in found baby wild life? My friend has 2 abandoned baby deer. We need to know who to take them to.

Carmon Womack | Jun 27, 2018
Andrew Lee | Jun 28, 2018

If you found baby wildlife, stay away! Mother's are nearby, and they have two reactions: (1) abandon their baby and (2) defend their baby. Both of their responses do not make good Samaritans out of us, regardless of noble intent.

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Tried calling today and it said that they were closed all day. How do I contact them via phone?

Brandon Louth | Jun 27, 2018
Adrian Patterson | Jun 28, 2018

Probably closed due to weather

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Can I bring my .20 gauge- only for personal protection?

Deborah Burdette | Jun 27, 2018
Patrick Shields | Jun 28, 2018

You might need to check with local officials, because you will possibly be on Federal land.... Laws apply different....

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Where are the closest cabins--rustic, basic? Only need space for one, possibly two adults + a kitty cat and a sweet, elderly dog?

Deborah Burdette | Jun 27, 2018
Patrick Shields | Jun 28, 2018

Medicine Park, is a small community located within a couple miles, nice location, small stores, gift shops, cafes and good views.... Historical....

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Is it open on Thanksgiving Day?

Kim Lek | Jun 27, 2018
Renee Gettes | Jun 28, 2018

Yes, it's open

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Hey are there any dog friendly trails in the Wichita Mountains??

Stachia Jordan | Jun 27, 2018
Joeci Gilchrest | Jun 28, 2018

Yes. All are dog friendly. There are campsites that don't accept dogs. I would recommend they be on a leash in the wilderness as there are many critters they would chase after!

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Can you fish in refuge

warren yeager | Jun 27, 2018
Tim Arr | Jun 28, 2018

Yes, if you have your Oklahoma state fishing license.

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Is there a coat to get in

Jackie Hamilton | Jun 27, 2018
John Graves | Jun 28, 2018

How much for campsite for 4-6 ppl?

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Are the grills available to use ?

Fredy Valadez | May 27, 2022
Ignacio Meza Jr. | May 28, 2022

There are a few located at different picnic areas. We have used them

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Can I build a fire at Doris campgrounds?

Alan Verser | Mar 28, 2022
Vanessa Najar | Mar 29, 2022

Yes, they also sell firewood. I was there 2 weeks ago

will the refuge be open 1-1-2021

Dale Richardson | Dec 28, 2021
Janet D. | Dec 29, 2021

Some areas will be closed to hikers for a controlled hunt Jan. 3-7, 2022.

Can you horse back ride through the refuge?

Tansy Landreth | Oct 29, 2021
Glenn Bugay | Oct 30, 2021

Yes, but check the trail markers. No horses on some of the trails.

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When does Mount Scott close for access to the top? I know its either Nov 1 ??? For winter months..but I'd like to know exactly please

janice deaver | Oct 29, 2021
Jeff Lowe | Oct 30, 2021

The Mount Scott Roadway is a shared resource, open to the public from sunrise until sunset. If you would like to hike Mt. Scott, you are able to do so anytime from sunrise to sunset, Monday through Thursday. On Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, you can hike from sunrise to noon (12:00 p.m.)

How many buffalo does the Refuge currently have?

Barbara Curran | Jun 26, 2021
Jeannie Clemens | Jun 27, 2021

They move around so sometimes you may only see a couple and sometimes +20

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Is there a map of bicycle trails available in the preserve?

Jana T Lamb | Jun 26, 2021
Ryan Grace | Jun 27, 2021

Check out mtbproject.com

Is there no way to call the refuge office? The phone number goes to a pre-recorded message that gives you some basic info, sends you to a website & hangs up. Calling the # on the website gets a call center that tells you to call refuge for details.

Chris T | Jun 26, 2021
Nina Trillo | Jun 27, 2021

Had the same problem I never could get a hold of anybody and then when I did get to the Wichita mountains they were closed I don't know if it's due to the whole virus thing or what

Are Pets allowed?

Eric Contreras | Jun 26, 2021
Kathy Suttles | Jun 27, 2021

Yes, supposed to be in a leash.

Is the Doris Campground open to tent camping again?

Mary K Gowdy | Jun 26, 2021
Jonathan Smith | Jun 27, 2021

Yes but with some restrictions. You can call them for more information.

Where a place to go tent camping nearby?

Leigh Sullivan | Jun 26, 2021
bullshredder | Jun 27, 2021

Do you have more information on the permit?

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If I find newborn mice are you able to keep them??

Anita Marie Zein | Jun 26, 2021
K R | Jun 27, 2021

No. These are wild animals protected with the refuge, the refuge is their home, please do not take mice lol

Are there fabins to rent?

Sheila Webb | Jun 26, 2021
Tj Blount (Onemanlydork) | Jun 27, 2021

There are no fabins to rent. There are cabins in medicine park to rent.

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When will the visitor center be reopened? Can we still drive through the refuge and up the up the mountain? Are things open in Medicine Park?

Kelli Crain | Jun 26, 2021
Kerry Montgomery | Jun 27, 2021

You can drive through and drive to the top of MT. Scott.

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Are the promative camp grounds open

Luis Gamez | Jun 26, 2021
Robin Goodman | Jun 27, 2021

Some are.

Will camping be allowed for 4th of July? 2020.

Maria Aguinaga | Jun 26, 2021
Jr. Wiedeman | Jun 27, 2021

Yes

I know some area are closed but can you still hike to water n what not n big rocks ?

Lee Blameuser | Jun 26, 2021
David Ellis | Jun 27, 2021

Yes, you can.

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Are the hiking trails open yet

Darrell Thompson | Jun 26, 2020
Austin Robinson | Jun 27, 2020

Yes, they have opened the trails to their normal hours. I would double check the times if you are wanting to hike only.

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Is there any camping available anywhere in the refuge?

Terry Henry | Jun 26, 2020
Ryan Barkey | Jun 27, 2020

Yes. Camp Doris.

Is the camping area open,and can you fish in the river by the dam?

ALVIN TURKETT | Jun 26, 2020
Steve Smith | Jun 27, 2020

Camping was not open memorial weekend.

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Is there camp sites here? And can you ride atvs?

Miranda | Jun 26, 2020
JOSEPH GONZALEZ | Jun 27, 2020

Yes there are , but about ATV's. You may wish to contact them for more information

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Can you camp over night and hike in the morning? Where can you do this at?

susan wilkes | Jun 26, 2020
Ryan | Jun 27, 2020

Yep. The Doris Campground is only a couple miles from most of the trailheads.

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Is the refuge open on 1st of Jan?

정승원 | Jun 26, 2020
Carlos Varela | Jun 27, 2020

Yes

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what days is it open this week

alan hanley | Jun 26, 2020
Mayuri Kawale | Jun 27, 2020

The visitor center has it's office times. But it is only useful if you want to get a map from there. Also no entrance fees anywhere. You can always hike any trail anytime. You will find guided direction maps at start of each trails as well along with small flags or symbols representing what trail you are on, while hiking

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Is Mount Scott open on Christmas Day?

Shanaya Richardson | Jun 26, 2020
Chris Blose | Jun 27, 2020

We were there in November and they are redoing the road to the top they made it seem like it wouldn't open till next year but you might call

Have the monarch butterflies migrating through the refuge now?

Winston and Suzan Gates | Jun 26, 2020
Robert Conatser | Jun 27, 2020

I haven't seen them en masse.

When will the visitors center be open. We have friends here from Oregon that are leaving Saturday and they'd like to visit

Marie Tolls | Jun 26, 2020
Julia Teachey | Jun 27, 2020

They should be open now they are open weekdays

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When is the 2019 Buffalo auction?

Bonnita Bressman | Jun 26, 2020
Emory Siegrist | Jun 27, 2020

I'm not really sure, but the visitor center should have more information.

Is mount Scott here

Stanley Partain | Jun 26, 2020
Dawn D. | Jun 27, 2020

Due to damage, the road up Mt Scott is closed to cars. It's open for hikers. It might be open to bikes as well.

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Gold panning allowed?

breazilianare because I am not rich | Jun 26, 2020
Lindsay Woodworth | Jun 27, 2020

Im not sure you would have to ask fish and game

How much is it for one person to camp in a tent?

Christopher Moser | Jun 26, 2020
Josh Odum | Jun 27, 2020

10 $ a day

Anywhere to swim?

nina schunck | Jun 26, 2020
Tianna Lyons | Jun 27, 2020

The 40ft hole, medicine park, the lakes 🏊

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Are there available camper camp sites this week?

David Wilson | Jun 26, 2020
Cody | Jun 27, 2020

You'll need to call (580) 429-3222 to check availability

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Are dogs allowed on the trails

Tommy Edward | Jun 26, 2020
Jessica Hager | Jun 27, 2020

Yes. Must be on leashes but pets welcome

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Why is the phone numbers to the visitor center and refuge headquarters just getting a busy signal day in and day out? I have tried calling all week, all hours of the day and it is always a busy signal.

Stacey Michelle | Jun 27, 2019
Judith Stoll-Stark | Jun 28, 2019

Stacey Michelle text if you need some I can try to get a hold of someone to call you back

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Is flooding a problem on the trails?

Stuart Maier | Jun 27, 2019
Jessica Hager | Jun 28, 2019

Ive not had that problem. Muddy after a rain but no floods

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Is the road back open at Mt Scott, was wanting to take a road trip this weekend?

Malisa “Cricket” VanHooser | Jun 27, 2019
Jenny Corbin (RedCollar15) | Jun 28, 2019

According to the website, it is closed to vehicular traffic but is open to foot and bike hiking.

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Is fishing with no license allowed at the lakes in the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge on Oklahoma's free fishing days Jun 1-2?

Quincey Mays | Jun 27, 2019
Janie Brooks | Jun 28, 2019

https://www.fws.gov/refuge/Wichita_Mountains/visit/visitor_activities.html Here's the link to their website for a list of refuge activities and other general information. If it doesn't help, try contacting the Visitor Center at 580-429-2197.

Are there MTB Trails here at the Wichita mountains?

wesley couch | Jun 27, 2019
wesley couch | Jun 28, 2019

I was going to take a friend anyway cause we have been planning this out. Were probably going to go and scout for some spots before we do go.

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Is the refuge going to be open for the upcoming elk hunt s?

David Russell | Jun 27, 2019
Teresa W. | Jun 28, 2019

It's a refuge...

Do ya have any long hiking trails there

Tommy Rodriguez | Jun 27, 2019
Cody Thompson | Jun 28, 2019

Hiking Trails of the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge 2 1 3 4 5 6 9 8 7 PDFFWS.gov › uploadedFiles › map-trails If you google that info you'll find the PDF of the trails provided

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Where can me and my huband and my dog camp for a few nights next month? Were interested in backpacking and light hiking on nature trails.

Candice Rupprecht | Jun 27, 2019
Brandon H | Jun 28, 2019

Camping is very regulated so make sure you follow the rules.

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Why is mt Scott closed

W T Edwards | Jun 27, 2019
Rosemary McGlothlin | Jun 28, 2019

There is a hole in the road.

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Is a scrap metal place open today

Colin Willerson | Jun 27, 2019
Sue Fenstermacher | Jun 28, 2019

No

Are there foxes?

Rachel Schumacher | Jun 27, 2019
Jim R | Jun 28, 2019

I have seen a couple out there right around dark. Usually around the wooded areas

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Is this a drive through refuge

Lu Fink | Jun 27, 2019
Kelly Casey | Jun 28, 2019

There is a visitor center/museum and a few hiking trails you can park. Prairie dog town is a favorite.

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Is the Doris Campground the only place available to camp in the Wichita wildlife refuge?

Melissa Hembree | Jun 27, 2018
jessica kreais | Jun 28, 2018

Dorris: group and individual sites with electricity. Fawn Creek: must reserve, used for youth groups and college students Backcountry camping available in Charon's Garden Wilderness Area

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