The Wichita Mountain Wildlife Refuge in southwestern Oklahoma is home to one of the most diverse topographies in the state and home to the largest free-ranging elk herd. This magical place is open year-round to the public and is filled with hundreds of Rocky Mountain Elk, along with a variety of other majestic creatures.

Located in southwest Oklahoma, the Wichita Mountains are rocky promontories full of natural beauty and breathtaking views. These mountains are home to the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge – 59,000 spectacular acres full of free-roaming wildlife.

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The refuge is not only home to a variety of wildlife but is filled with some of the best hiking in the state. A scenic highway leads visitors through the park and showcases the beautiful wildlife and fauna.

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One of the most spectacular animals you’ll find in the refuge are elk. In fact, the largest free-ranging elk herd in Oklahoma can be found in the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge.

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Pretty much anywhere you go in the refuge is great for elk viewing, including driving the roads through the area.

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Elk were originally indigenous to the Wichita Mountains but were reintroduced to the area in the early 1900s.

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There are roughly 800 Rocky Mountain Elk in the refuge with an average life span of about 15 years.

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Below is a beautiful herd of elk grazing near the Visitor Center on the south side of the road.

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Every year in September and October the “Friends of the Wichita Mountains” offer Bugling Elk Tours to the general public during mating season, which is the best time of the year for elk viewing.

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No matter what time of the year you visit this spectacular place, one thing is for sure - the views, wildlife, and landscape will take your breath away.

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Have you ever taken the Bugling Elk Tour before? If so, would you recommend it?

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For more information about the Wichita Mountain Wildlife Refuge, click here.

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