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Military Park Lake Elmer Thomas Rec Area (Fort Sill)
Overview
Lake Elmer Thomas Recreation Area, commonly known as LETRA, serves as a premier destination for the military community located within the gates of Fort Sill. This expansive park offers a refreshing break from the daily routine of post life, centered around the crystal-clear waters of a 360-acre lake. It blends the security of a military installation with the tranquil beauty of the Oklahoma landscape, providing a well-maintained space for rest and outdoor recreation. Whether you are passing through the Southern Plains or planning an extended stay, this park provides a high-quality camping experience with a community-focused atmosphere.
Location & Surroundings
Situated in the heart of Southwest Oklahoma, the park is nestled at the base of the Wichita Mountains. The surrounding landscape is a striking mix of rugged granite peaks and rolling prairies. Because the park is located on the northwest corner of the installation, it feels remarkably secluded, away from the busier areas of the post. The elevation changes in the area provide scenic vistas, while the proximity to Lawton ensures that travelers have easy access to major shopping centers and urban services just a short drive away.
Amenities & Park Features
The park is designed to accommodate various camping styles, offering RV sites with full hookups including water, sewer, and both 30 and 50-amp electricity. The facility is equipped with modern conveniences like a laundry room and clean bathhouses to make longer stays comfortable. On-site recreation is a major draw, featuring a swimming beach, seasonal water slides, and a dual-lane boat ramp for fishing enthusiasts. For those traveling with children, the park also includes mini-golf, playgrounds, and an archery range, ensuring there is plenty to do within walking distance of your site.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Just outside the park boundaries lies the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, a must-visit for nature lovers wanting to see bison, elk, and prairie dogs in their natural habitat. A drive to the top of Mount Scott offers panoramic views of the entire region and is particularly beautiful at sunset. Visitors should also explore Medicine Park, Oklahoma’s historic cobblestone resort town, which features unique architecture, local boutiques, and charming eateries. For history buffs, the Fort Sill National Historic Landmark and Museum provides a deep dive into the region's rich military past.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is an ideal match for military families and retirees who have base access and value a secure, quiet environment. It is perfect for travelers who enjoy water-based activities like kayaking or fishing and those who prefer a scenic mountain backdrop over a typical highway stopover. Because it offers a blend of natural beauty and structured amenities, it is best suited for RVers who want an active outdoor vacation while maintaining the comforts and safety found on a military installation.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Discounts
- Facility
- Internet
- Hunting Nearby (within 20 miles)
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Luke Pelletier
Beautiful place! Life Guard manager was very rude tho, wouldn’t let my mom on the beach with her service dog and yelled at her for it. Very unprofessional and rude. But I’m reviewing the area not the management. If I were to rate the management I would give them 1 star. She came up to us and yelled us as we were trying to enjoy ourselves. But the place is very beautiful! Area is 5 Stars tho.
Loree Donnell
We stayed at the cabins for a weekend for a wedding. Absolutely beautiful area, the water is pretty clear (especially for Oklahoma lakes). There are lifeguards on duty and set swim times for the beach area. We will definitely go back!
Ode Cas
It's even better if you get out onto the water itself.
Amanda Fietz
This is our go-to family camping spot in the Wichita mountains. My parents grew up going with their parents and so on to us. They have cabins (small, medium, and large), manicured campsites, swimming at the beach with a water slide, and boating rentals (kayaks, paddleboard, canoes, pontoons). Set at looking over Lake Elmer Thomas at Mt. Scott. This is on Ft. Sill base, and they do require visitor passes for the base you need to get prior.
Dwayne Sessom
We rented a few cabins for a family vacation, and this entire park is so clean, well maintained, and gorgeous, we could not believe it! The cabins were excellent. Very comfortable and clean. The lake is so nice and the water is clear and just beautiful, and full of huge bass! Staff were very nice and helpful. I would highly recommend LETRA to anyone looking to get away for a while to relax and enjoy nature!