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Lawton is a city of about 90,000 people in southwestern Oklahoma, created almost overnight in 1901 when the government opened Kiowa, Comanche and Apache lands to settlers through a land lottery. It grew up beside Fort Sill, the historic Army post where the Apache leader Geronimo spent his final years and is buried, and the fort still shapes the life of the city today.
The Museum of the Great Plains tells the story of the southern plains, from mammoths and giant bison to the cattle trails, and its outdoor Red River Trading Post recreates a frontier trading post with log cabins and a blockhouse. Next door, the Comanche National Museum and Cultural Center celebrates the history, art and language of the Comanche Nation, including the Comanche code talkers of World War II.
Just northwest of town, the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge protects one of the last pieces of mixed-grass prairie, where free-roaming bison, longhorn cattle and elk graze beneath granite peaks. A winding road climbs Mount Scott for sweeping views, and the cobblestone resort town of Medicine Park and Lake Lawtonka sit at the edge of the mountains.
Federal refuge just northwest of Lawton covering about 59,000 acres of granite peaks, mixed-grass prairie and lakes. Free-roaming bison, Texas longhorns, elk and prairie dogs live here, and there are many hiking trails. Stop at the visitor center first for maps and keep your distance from bison.
Granite mountain in the Wichita Mountains with a paved road that climbs to the summit at about 2,460 feet. The top offers wide views of lakes, prairie and Lawton in the distance. Drive up for sunrise or sunset, and note that the road can close in bad weather or during busy events.
Regional museum about the people and history of the southern Great Plains, with exhibits on Native American cultures, the bison, settlers, farming and Fort Sill. Outdoor areas include a reconstructed trading post. Plan at least two hours to see the galleries and grounds.
Museum run by the Comanche Nation telling the history and culture of the Comanche people, including exhibits on horses, art, language and the Comanche Code Talkers of World War II. It also hosts art shows and cultural events. Admission is free, and the gift shop sells work by Native artists.
Museum at Fort Sill with a large collection of cannons and artillery from colonial times to today, displayed indoors and on an outdoor park. Exhibits explain how artillery shaped American wars. Get a base visitor pass with photo ID first, and allow time for the outdoor gun park.
Reconstructed 1840s-style trading post on the grounds of the Museum of the Great Plains, showing how traders and Plains tribes exchanged goods. Inside are furs, tools and trade goods of the period. Check the museum calendar for living history days with demonstrations.
Active Army post founded in 1869, with the historic Old Post Quadrangle of stone buildings where soldiers, scouts and Native leaders once lived. It is the home of the Field Artillery. Visitors need a pass from the visitor control center, so bring a photo ID and check access rules first.
Grave of the Apache leader Geronimo in the Apache prisoner of war cemetery at Fort Sill, where he died in 1909 after years held as a prisoner. A stone pyramid topped with an eagle marks the site. Visitors need a base pass, and the cemetery should be visited quietly and respectfully.
Grand Greek Revival style mansion built in 1909 for Mattie Beal, who won a homestead claim in the 1901 land lottery that opened the area. The house has period rooms and original details. It is open for tours on limited days, so check ahead or look for holiday open houses.
Historic county courthouse in downtown Lawton, a stately civic building that anchors the area around the town square. It still serves as the seat of county government. It is worth a quick look while exploring downtown, which has local shops and restaurants nearby.
City park near downtown Lawton with a small lake, walking paths, fishing docks, playgrounds and picnic areas. It hosts community festivals and seasonal light displays. It is a relaxed spot for a walk or picnic, and the paths are flat and easy for strollers.
Reservoir north of Lawton at the edge of the Wichita Mountains, used for the city's water supply and for boating, fishing and camping. Rocky shores and mountain views make it scenic. Check city rules for boat permits, and pair a visit with the nearby wildlife refuge.
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