The Hike To Quanah Parker Lake Is Short But Sweet

The Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge is a sprawling 60,000-acre paradise in southwestern Oklahoma. It is the oldest managed wildlife facility in the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service system. The refuge houses hundreds of native plant and animal species and serves as a destination for people all over the area to come and enjoy the outdoors. There are thirteen lakes in the refuge, and one of the best is Lake Quanah Parker!

The trail to reach the lake is just over a mile and a half and you’ll see all the beauty of Oklahoma’s rocky landscape. Since the refuge is federally protected, all of the area surrounding the lake is free from development.

Rachel Perash/AllTrails

The view of the lake is absolutely incredible at any season or time of day. With three miles of shoreline, there’s plenty of space to find your own secluded nook!

Michael Wallace/Flickr

Quanah Parker Lake is named for Quanah Parker, a leader from the Kwahadi band of the Comanche Nation.

Summer Dawn/AllTrails The federal government elected him chief of the Comanche Nation shortly before replacing the term with “Chairman” - thus, he is known as the last Chief of the Comanche.

The scenery around the lake will show you so much of Oklahoma’s natural wonder!

Granger Meador/Flickr The peace and stillness of the lake is a sight to behold and is perfect for those looking to reflect quietly on nature.

In the spring and summer, the trail is filled with beautiful wildflowers. The refuge is home to over 800 plant species.

Lindsey Magers/AllTrails

Quanah Parker Lake is a popular spot for outdoor lovers. Fishers, kayakers, and rock climbers are drawn to the area, and there’s a campground located just off the trail.

Larry Smith/Flickr

Have you been to Lake Quanah Parker? Share your photos in the comments!

Rachel Perash/AllTrails

Michael Wallace/Flickr

Summer Dawn/AllTrails

The federal government elected him chief of the Comanche Nation shortly before replacing the term with “Chairman” - thus, he is known as the last Chief of the Comanche.

Granger Meador/Flickr

The peace and stillness of the lake is a sight to behold and is perfect for those looking to reflect quietly on nature.

Lindsey Magers/AllTrails

Larry Smith/Flickr

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Address: Quanah Parker Lake, Oklahoma, USA