Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge
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The Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge near Lawton, OK has been a bucket list item for many years. The refuge was established by President Theodore Roosevelt, and has one of the first protected areas for American bison. The refuge possesses nearly 90 square miles, and contains a surprising abundance of "mountains" to ascend.
Leaving Dallas, I arrived at the visitor center shortly before 9am. Once the center opened, I was greatly surprised that backcountry camping permits are completely committed. Although the refuge is largely unknown, it was extremely well-known, and popular to those in the region. A volunteer ranger named Randy connected me with a group to hikers who knew the area well. We stayed to the Charons Garden Wilderness Area. After ascending Elk Mountain, the highest point in the area, we proceeded to scramble amongst the ridges. They showed me stone bridges, and many fun Class IV locations throughout the area.
It was a spectacular jewel that I will enjoy returning to.