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One of the oldest and most popular wildlife refuges in
the system is the Wichita Mountains National Wildlife Refuge. Located
amidst the rugged beauty of western Oklahoma, this 60,000 acre stretch
of granite mountains, oak forests and mixed grass prairie is home to
many migratory grazing animals, chiefly Elk and the magnificent Bison.
There are a number of fascinating native plants as well, including forest
oak, juniper, bluestems and several varieties of lichen. These are particularly
evident in the 5,700 acre splendor of Charon’s Garden Wilderness
Area.
There is plenty to do in the Wichita Mountains National Wildlife Refuge
besides observing the local flora and fauna. Hiker’s can take
a 2-mile hike up Elk Mountain trail. There are 13 lakes open to public
use. Fishermen can expect to catch crappie, channel, largemouth bass
and other fish.
The Wichita Mountain Climber Association will tell you that this refuge
has some of the best rock-climbing opportunities in the country, and
they should know. Climbers can try their skills against Mt. Scott, the
Narrows, Elk Mt., the Lost Dome, or ole Crab Eyes.
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