West-Parker Peak (UN2058)

Overview

West Parker Peak (UN2058) is located in the eastern portion of the Wichita Mountain National Wildlife Refuge near Lawton OK. It is situated north of Rt 49, west of Mt Scott, east of Rt 115, and SE of Mt Wall. The mountain is bordered at it's base by a fairly think growth of trees and brush on the north, west, and east sides. The south flank of the mountain extends as a saddle to Quetone Point. It's summit offers great views of 18 or more peaks in the Wichita Mountain Wildlife Refuge.

Getting There

From Lawton OK: If you are visiting the Wichita Mountain Wildlife Refuge from the Lawton area, you will most likely enter the park on Rt 49 from the H.E. Bailey Turnpike (I-44). It is approximately 8 miles from I-44 to the park. Once in the park continue on Rt 49 West passing the turnoff to Mt Scott. After you pass the Mt Scott turnoff your view is obstructed by the terrain immediately to the north of the highway. Travel west 1.8 miles from the Mt Scott turnoff and you will see an observation turnoff (Quetone Overlook)on the right side of the highway. Turn here and go a very short distance to the parking lot. Looking NE from the parking lot you will see West Parker Peak about 1.4 miles away.  Quetone Point will be closer and to the right. From Cache OK: From US Rt 62, take Rt 115 N from Cache. It is about 6 miles from Cache to the WMNWR gate. Follow Rt 115 to Rt 49. Turn east on Rt 49 passing the Visitor Center. Continue east of Rt 49 until you pass the Meers exit (Rt 115). Approximately .9 mile after you pass Rt 115 you will come to Quetone Overlook turn off on the left. Turn left here and go a very short distance to the parking lot. Looking NE from the parking lot you will see West Parker Peak about 1.4 miles away.  Quetone Point will be closer and to the right. From the West: Enter the Wichita Mountain Wildlife Refuge on Rt 49. Continue east on Rt 49 for several miles. About mid-way in the park you will make a left turn on Rt 49 afterwhich you will pass the Visitor Center. Continue east until you pass the Meers exit (Rt 115). (Refer above directions in this section.) From the North (Meers Entrance): Leaving the town of Meers, drive south on State Highway 115 in to the WMWR. Watch the curves and oncoming traffic on this road as it can be rather dangerous if your speed is excessive. After entering the park continue until you reach Route 49. Turn left and go .9 miles to the Quetone Observation turnoff. Turn left here and drive a very short distance to the parking lot. Looking NE from the parking lot you will see West Parker Peak about 1.4 miles away.  Quetone Point will be closer and to the right. Distance to the Wichita Mountain Wildlife Refuge from various cities: Amarillo TX, 214 miles Dallas TX, 205 miles Fort Smith AR, 263 miles Oklahoma City OK, 86 miles Tulsa OK, 191 miles Wichita KS, 246 miles Wichita Falls TX, 68 miles CAUTION: Observe posted speed limit signs, especially at night. Park authorites will not hesitate to ticket you for violations. Believe me, I know from first hand experience!

Route

West Parker Peak is visible from Rt 49, and from the summit of Mt Scott. It is also visible from the north (Meers-Porter Rd) but there is no access from the north. Probably the easiest way to the summit of West Parker Peak is to drive to the Quetone Overlook parking lot. There are no trails to West Parker Peak except numerous animal trails that do offer some benefit.  To reach the peak, head in a general direction to the peak from the parking lot.  There will be a series of hills, valleys, and small creek beds to cross as you make your way to the west base of the peak.  The climb to the summit will require some boulder hopping but is not difficult. Allow at least four hours hiking time round trip.

Red Tape

There is no fee to visit the Wichita Mountain National Wildlife Refuge. There are several picnicking areas throughout the park. There are opportunities for general camping, backcountry camping (Permit only) and there are numerous trails for hiking and backpacking. Boating is permitted but there are special rules that apply. Fishing is in accordance with state and federal regulations. Hunting is by lottery through the OK Department of Wildlife Conservation. There are tours and special programs provided by the park service. For specific rules and regulations and/or additional information, please check with the WMNWR Visitor Center or visit the site below. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service,Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge Route 1, Box 448, Indiahoma, OK 73552 (580) 429-3222

When to Climb

The peak can be climbed in all seasons of the year. Probably the best time is during fall and winter.  Spring and summer will require more caution with regard to ticks, snakes, etc.

Camping

The Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge offers a fully developed camping facility. Doris Campground is located about 1 1/2 miles to the west of the Visitor Center on Route 49. This campground is fully developed with water, fire grills, picnic tables, sanitary dump stations, shower & restroom facilities, tent sites, some electrical hookups, and trailer spaces. Sites are first come - first served. There is limited group camping by reservation only. Fees are charged. Backcountry camping (by permit only) is available in the Charon's Garden Wilderness Area further to the west.

External Links

WICHITA MOUNTAIN WILDLIFE REGUGE     http://www.fws.gov/refuge/Wichita_Mountains/visit/contact.html WICHITA MOUNTAIN COBBLESTONE GAZETTE     http://www.emagazines.com/shopexd.asp?id=218&bc=no

Additions and CorrectionsPost an Addition or Correction

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hgrapid - Dec 31, 2018 12:29 pm - Hasn't voted

Added coordinates

Just in case my changes don't stick, I provided latitude and longitude: 34.74909, -98.551

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