Medicine Park: Cobblestones, Bison, and Summer Bliss

Place: Medicine Park, Oklahoma

🌄 Mount Scott: Views That Make You Pull Over

You can hike or drive to the top of Mount Scott, and trust me—either way, the views are breathtaking. It’s one of my favorite photo spots ever, especially at golden hour when the hills roll into the horizon like a painting. Don’t forget your camera and a windproof hairdo!

🦬 Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge: Wild & Wonderful

We always carve out time for the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge. The first time we visited, we pulled over after spotting bison and longhorns from the road! The best way to explore is to stop by the visitor center and ask a ranger which trails match your vibe. On one short hike, we had a surprise stare-down with a group of wild longhorns—definitely a story for the books.

🏊‍♀️ Bath Lake: Ducky Moments & Floating Fun

Bath Lake is the heart of Medicine Park—and one of our favorite places to chill out. We rent floats, grab a snack nearby, and spend the afternoon drifting through the river. The big yellow ducky makes the perfect photo op (and yes, it always makes me laugh!). It’s family-friendly, picturesque, and the best cure for Oklahoma heat.

🎣 Fishing for Rainbows

During colder months, the town stocks rainbow trout in the river, so if you're into fishing (or just trying it out), it's a fun way to spend the morning. We picked up a license at the Walmart in Lawton, and found a peaceful little spot by the water.

🏰 The Holy City & Haunted Cedars

• The Holy City of the Wichitas – It’s like wandering through an ancient village from another world. Whether you’re into history or just want to explore something different, this replica of Jerusalem is beautiful and serene.

• The Parallel Forest – A grid of 20,000 cedar trees that’s equal parts enchanting and eerie. If you're brave enough, wander in—but definitely mark your starting point or you might be starring in your own ghost story.

🐠 Family Favorites

• Medicine Park Aquarium & Natural Sciences Center – A great spot to cool off and learn something. The exhibits are fun and interactive—perfect for kids or curious adults.

• The Swinging Bridge – Lighthearted and slightly nerve-wracking. Cross it just for fun (and a cute photo of course).

🍴 Our Go-To Restaurant (Yes, the One with the Tree!)

Every trip to Medicine Park includes a meal at Riverside Café, the spot with a tree growing through the middle of the restaurant and a view of the river that makes everything taste better. It’s our tradition, and sitting on the patio with a plate of comfort food while the creek gurgles nearby? Pure joy.

Other amazing eats include:

• The Old Plantation Restaurant – A historic and hearty pick with that classic Oklahoma charm.

• The Healthy Hippie Café – Don’t knock the carrot hot dog until you try it!

• Mrs. Chadwick’s Bakery – We swing by for pastries and their signature Hummingbird Slurry—delish.

• Meer’s Store & Restaurant – Legendary longhorn burgers and homemade cobbler. Bring cash!

• Ann’s Country Kitchen – Recommended by a local, and now we’re obsessed. Try the pie or cinnamon rolls—they’re heavenly.

🛍️ Where to Shop

• The White Buffalo Trading Post – Rustic, spirited, and full of fun.

• Discovery Outpost – A playful shop filled with toys, books, and outdoor treasures.

• Medicine Creek Olive Oil – We tasted everything and left with bottles of balsamic and a wedge of cheese. The liquor store next door made pairing decisions even easier.

• Lulabelle’s – Boutique vibes and handmade goodies galore.

🛏️ Where to Stay

• InnHabit Tiny House Resort – Stylish and smart lodging perfect for couples or solo travelers.

• The Bird Houses on the River – Quaint, cozy, and the views can’t be beat.

• Luxury Relaxing Stay Airbnb – For those who want a little extra glam in their getaway.

• MySuites in Lawton – If you're staying offsite, we loved having a full-size fridge and more space to stretch out. Just 20 minutes away and super convenient.

💫 Final Thoughts

Medicine Park is a place where nature meets nostalgia—where you float beneath a blue sky, spot a buffalo in the wild, and share a plate of home-cooked food as music drifts from a porch nearby. It’s Oklahoma charm at its finest, and we always leave feeling refreshed, reconnected, and a little sun-kissed from swimming under that famous ducky.