Climb at the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge

The Wichita Mountains is a paradise for those trapped in the flat lands of Oklahoma and Texas! From Oklahoma City it's approx. 2 hours 15 minutes, and from Dallas/Ft Worth (TX) approx. 4 hours.

Talk about a place that holds tons of potential and houses some of the best climbs in the state! Over the many years climbing at the Wichita's, it is still a humbling experience. The quality of the climbs and the technical nature in which the routes were set can challenge even the most advanced climbers. Please use caution!

Climbs in the Wichita's range from 5.5 to 5.13a (Tied to the Whipping Post, Sport). You can find both Trad and Sport climbs, along with a countless number of Bouldering problems just waiting to be discovered! The main Climbing Areas are Charon's Gardens, The Meadows, Mount Scott (Upper and Lower), and The Narrows.

For Sport climbers, check out Echo Dome in Charon's Gardens for a good introduction to the Wichita's. For harder climbs continue to Lost Dome (note, this area gets its name for a reason, be prepare to get 'lost' trying to find it). Follow along Sunset Trail to avoid veering off onto game-trails. Head South towards the hard to miss boulders that make up the formation Crab-Eyes. Lost Dome is hidden Southwest behind the 'Eyes'. Have Fun Exploring!

For beginning Trad climbers looking for a warm-up or introduction, try Upper Mount Scott or Elk Slabs (Elk Mountain, Charon's Gardens). For advanced Trad climbers, the park is yours for the taking! Get the OKLAHOMA SELECT A CLIMBER'S GUIDE By Tony Mayse for detailed descriptions of available climbing.

You can stay overnight at Doris Campground (Primitive, Tent Camping Full Electric). Backcountry camping is by permit only (available at Visitor Center).

After a hard day of climbing, treat yourself to the famous Meers Restaurant, home of the "Best Burger in Oklahoma" made from local grass fed Longhorn beef, located just outside of the park to the North.

If heading into the Wichita's from the East, you will drive past the Town of Medicine Park. Go ahead and venture North into town and check it out! The historic town at the base of Mount Scott has more to offer than it appears - take notice of the unique cobble-stone houses. And while in town, stop into Basecamp Adventure Outfitters for any gear or to talk to some local climbers that are busy turning the Wichita's into their own personal playground!