Attractions and Places To See in Comanche County - Top 7

Comanche County is rich in natural beauty, offering diverse landscapes for outdoor enthusiasts. You can explore the vast Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, home to free-roaming bison and longhorn cattle, perfect for hiking and wildlife viewing. Don't miss the scenic views from Mount Scott, or the serene waters of Treasure Lake, Lake Elmer Thomas, and Lake Ellsworth, which are ideal for fishing, boating, and birdwatching.

Yes, Comanche County boasts a significant number of historical and cultural sites. You can delve into Native American heritage at the Comanche National Museum & Cultural Center, or explore the history of the Great Plains at the Museum of the Great Plains. A must-visit is Fort Sill, a National Historic Landmark, which includes the Fort Sill National Historic Landmark Museum and Geronimo's grave. Other notable sites include the Quanah Parker Star House and the Holy City of the Wichitas.

Families will find plenty to enjoy in Comanche County. Lake Elmer Thomas and Lake Ellsworth offer year-round camping, fishing, hiking, and birdwatching. The Bison Trail, Wichita Mountains National Wildlife Refuge is a great spot to see wildlife. Elmer Thomas Park in Lawton provides playgrounds and walking trails, while the Holy City of the Wichitas offers a unique cultural experience.

Comanche County offers a variety of hiking opportunities, particularly within the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge. Popular trails include the Bison Trail, where you can often spot bison grazing. For more options, consider exploring routes like Mount Scott Overlook or Longhorn and Elk Trail Loop. You can find detailed information and routes in the Hiking in Comanche County guide.

Absolutely! Comanche County provides several cycling routes for different skill levels. You can enjoy scenic rides around the lakes or through the rolling terrain. For example, the Lake Lawtonka Dam loop offers an easy ride, while the Lake Elmer Thomas – Lake Lawtonka Dam loop presents a more challenging option. Discover more routes in the Cycling in Comanche County guide.

The premier destination for wildlife viewing is the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge. Here, you can observe free-roaming bison, longhorn cattle, and various bird species. The Bison Trail is specifically known for bison sightings. Additionally, the lakes, such as Lake Ellsworth, are excellent spots for birdwatching.

For challenging hikes and breathtaking scenery, head to the Wichita Mountains. The Mount Scott summit offers awe-inspiring panoramic views. The River Crossing at Charons Garden Wilderness Area provides a rugged landscape with granite rocks and lush vegetation. For more challenging routes, check out trails like Crab Eyes Trail in the Hiking in Comanche County guide.

The Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge is generally pleasant to visit in spring and fall when temperatures are milder, making it ideal for hiking and wildlife viewing. Summers can be hot, but lakes like Lake Elmer Thomas offer water activities to cool off. Winter provides a different, quieter experience, though some facilities or roads might have limited access.

While specific dog-friendly trail rules can vary, many outdoor areas in Comanche County, including parts of the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, allow dogs on leash. It's always best to check specific regulations for each location, especially for wilderness areas or designated wildlife viewing spots, to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit for everyone.

Comanche County offers a variety of running trails suitable for different distances and difficulties. You can find easy loops like the Elmer Thomas Park loop in Lawton, or more challenging routes such as the Mount Scott loop. For a comprehensive list of options, explore the Running Trails in Comanche County guide.

Visitors particularly appreciate the diverse natural beauty, especially the opportunities for wildlife viewing and scenic drives within the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge. The recreational lakes like Lake Elmer Thomas are highly valued for their year-round activities. The rich historical sites, such as Fort Sill, also provide a deep connection to the region's past, offering a blend of outdoor adventure and cultural immersion.