If you want to relax, have fun, and enjoy nature in Lawton, OK, visit Elmer Thomas Park. It’s one of the oldest and most beautiful parks in the city. The park offers attractions and activities for all ages and interests. In this blog post, we’ll explore why you should visit Elmer Thomas Park and what you can do there.

What is Elmer Thomas Park?

Elmer Thomas Park is a 120-acre park at 501 NW Ferris Ave, Lawton, OK 73507. Established in 1901, it’s named after Elmer Thomas, a former U.S. senator and Lawton mayor. The park features a large pond, splash pad, playground, disc golf course, skate park, dog park, rose garden, and several picnic areas and pavilions. It also hosts various events and festivals.

Why Visit Elmer Thomas Park?

Scenic Views and Wildlife

Enjoy scenic views of the pond, trees, and flowers. Feed ducks, geese, and fish, or rent a paddle boat.

Splash Pad Fun

Cool off at the splash pad, open from Memorial Day to Labor Day. It has jets, fountains, and buckets.

Playground Adventures

Have fun at the ADA-accessible playground with swings, slides, climbing structures, and a merry-go-round.

Disc Golf

Play disc golf at the 18-hole course, one of the best in the state. It’s challenging, scenic, and free.

Skate Park

Skate at the park with ramps, rails, ledges, and bowls. Open from dawn to dusk, it’s free to use.

Dog Park

Bring your dog to the fenced area for off-leash fun. Separate areas for small and large dogs are available.

Rose Garden

Admire over 300 varieties of roses and other flowers. The rose garden is maintained by the Lawton Fort Sill Rose Society.

Picnic Areas

Have a picnic at one of the many areas with tables, grills, restrooms, and electricity. Pavilions are available for rent.

Events and Festivals

Attend events like the Lawton Fort Sill Freedom Festival, International Festival, and Holiday in the Park.

How to plan your visit?

If you are interested in visiting Elmer Thomas Park, here are some tips to help you plan your trip:

• Check the park hours and rules before you go. The park is open from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily, except for the splash pad, which is open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily during the summer. The park rules include keeping the park clean, respecting other visitors, and following the safety guidelines.
• Check the weather and dress accordingly. The park is open year-round, but the weather can vary depending on the season. You may want to bring sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, water, and snacks for the summer, and jackets, gloves, hats, and blankets for the winter.
• Check the event calendar and plan ahead. The park hosts many events and festivals throughout the year, which can attract large crowds and affect the availability of parking and facilities. You may want to check the event calendar and plan your visit accordingly. You may also want to buy tickets or make reservations for some of the events, especially if they are popular or require a fee.
• Have fun and enjoy the park. Elmer Thomas Park is a hidden gem in Lawton, OK, and it has something for everyone. Whether you want to relax, have fun, or learn something new, you will find it at the park. So, what are you waiting for? Visit Elmer Thomas Park today and discover why it is one of the best parks in the city.

Check out this blog post for more amazing places to visit while in Lawton.