Elmer Thomas Park
A beloved community park featuring a fantastic playground, seasonal splash pad, and a thriving prairie dog colony.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Elmer Thomas Park
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A beloved community park featuring a fantastic playground, seasonal splash pad, and a thriving prairie dog colony.
"A must-visit for families, with endless fun at the playground and the captivating prairie dogs!"
Splash Pad Hours
Water features close in October, even if the weather is warm. Check seasonal hours! :water_wave:
Prairie Dog Viewing
These little guys are everywhere! Great for kids and adults alike. :chipmunk:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Splash Pad Fun
Playground area
A fantastic water playground perfect for cooling off on hot summer days. A must-visit for families!
Prairie Dog Town
Throughout the park
Hundreds of prairie dogs create a lively and entertaining spectacle for all ages. Bring your camera!
Memorial Walkway
Near the pond
A touching tribute to military service members, offering a peaceful place for reflection.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Times for Water Fun
Prairie Dog Encounters
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Splash Pad Hours
Water features close in October, even if the weather is warm. Check seasonal hours! :water_wave:
Prairie Dog Viewing
These little guys are everywhere! Great for kids and adults alike. :chipmunk:
Bathroom Check
Restrooms can get hot and lack soap. Bring your own hand sanitizer. :hand_sanitizer:
Walking & Biking
Enjoy scenic paths perfect for a stroll or bike ride. :bike:
Tips
from all over the internet
Splash Pad Hours
Water features close in October, even if the weather is warm. Check seasonal hours! :water_wave:
Prairie Dog Viewing
These little guys are everywhere! Great for kids and adults alike. :chipmunk:
Bathroom Check
Restrooms can get hot and lack soap. Bring your own hand sanitizer. :hand_sanitizer:
Walking & Biking
Enjoy scenic paths perfect for a stroll or bike ride. :bike:
Picnic Spots
Plenty of covered picnic areas and tables available for a relaxing meal. :picnic_table:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Elmer Thomas Park's excellent playgrounds and the entertaining prairie dog colony, making it a top spot for families. While the seasonal splash pad is a huge hit, its early October closure can disappoint on warm days. Some guests note that restroom facilities could be improved.
"Great Playgrounds and water playground. Wish it was open later into fall. It's been in the 90s but the water is off because it's October. Bathroom could be improved. There's no air flow. In the summer sweltering. I have not found soap in the bathroom at any visit."
JENNIFER Cavoli
"Thanksgiving Eve, we drove through Christmas Light show, it was a little to cold for us to walk. But during the day you can see so many Prairie Dogs. Nice big playground and a good sized fishing pond."
Robin Espinosa
"Very nice park walking/bike paths. Currently building water slide. There’s a softball field. Fishing, swans, geese, mallards n prairie dogs. Kids playgrounds covered n very nicely done. Picnic tables etc. Benches to sit n relax. Memorial plaques honoring those that served in the military. All and all I love it!"
Elizabeth Brignoni
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Elmer Thomas Park is easily accessible by car. There are several parking areas throughout the park, making it convenient to access different sections like the playground or the pond. GPS navigation to 'Elmer Thomas Park, Lawton, OK' will guide you directly there.
Public transportation options to Elmer Thomas Park may be limited. It's best to check with the local Lawton transit authority for current bus routes and schedules that might serve the park's vicinity.
The park has multiple entry points. The main entrances are typically off Cache Road and NW 52nd Street, providing access to various amenities like the playground, splash pad, and pond areas.
Yes, ample parking is available throughout Elmer Thomas Park. You'll find designated parking lots near the playground, picnic areas, and the pond, ensuring easy access to different attractions.
Absolutely! Elmer Thomas Park features excellent walking and biking trails, and if you're in the surrounding areas, it's a pleasant ride or walk to reach the park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Elmer Thomas Park is generally free to enter, making it an accessible destination for everyone. Enjoy the playgrounds, trails, and prairie dog viewing without any admission cost.
The park itself is typically open from dawn until dusk. However, specific amenities like the splash pad have seasonal hours and may close earlier, especially in the fall. It's wise to check for any specific operating times for attractions.
The splash pad at Elmer Thomas Park usually closes at the end of September or early October, regardless of warm weather. Plan your water fun visits before this seasonal closure.
The Christmas light show is a drive-through event, and typically no advance booking is required. You can drive through on Thanksgiving Eve and other designated nights. Check local listings for specific dates and times.
As a public park, entry is generally open to all. Standard park rules apply, such as leash laws for pets and regulations regarding fires or alcohol. Always be mindful of posted signage.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Highlights include the fantastic playground and splash pad (seasonal), observing the abundant prairie dogs, enjoying the walking/biking trails, and visiting the military memorial. There's also a pond for fishing and observing waterfowl. +1
Absolutely! The large playground and seasonal splash pad are huge draws for children. The prairie dogs also provide endless entertainment and educational opportunities.
Yes, the pond at Elmer Thomas Park is a popular spot for fishing. Remember to check local fishing regulations and obtain any necessary licenses.
Restrooms are available within the park. However, some visitors have noted that they can get hot in the summer and may lack amenities like soap, so it's advisable to come prepared.
The park is famous for its large population of prairie dogs. You can also spot swans, geese, and mallards on the pond.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants or cafes within Elmer Thomas Park. However, the park offers numerous covered picnic areas and tables, making it ideal for bringing your own food and enjoying a picnic.
Yes, picnicking is highly encouraged! The park has many picnic tables, some of which are covered, providing comfortable spots to enjoy a meal outdoors.
Typically, there are no regular food vendors operating within Elmer Thomas Park. It's best to pack all your food and drinks before arriving.
Given the park's amenities, simple and easy-to-eat picnic foods are ideal. Sandwiches, salads, fruits, and snacks are perfect for enjoying at the picnic tables.
The park is located in Lawton, Oklahoma, so there are numerous restaurants and grocery stores a short drive away if you need to pick up food before or after your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the playful prairie dogs in their natural habitat, the vibrant splash pad in action (seasonal), the serene pond with waterfowl, and the touching military memorial. The well-maintained playgrounds also make for great family shots.
Elmer Thomas Park is excellent for wildlife photography, especially for prairie dogs. Their active nature and proximity make for engaging shots. The pond also offers opportunities for bird photography.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best lighting for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a softer, more appealing look. This is also when prairie dogs are typically most active.
The areas with the densest prairie dog colonies, the main playground structures, the memorial plaques, and the pond's edge are all popular spots for photography.
Drone usage in public parks can be restricted. It's essential to check with the Lawton Parks and Recreation Department or look for posted signage regarding drone policies before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Plan your visit during the day to maximize your chances of seeing the prairie dogs active. While the restrooms are available, some visitors suggest bringing your own hand sanitizer as they can sometimes be lacking in amenities.
🚶♀️ Nature & Wildlife Enthusiasts
The park's walking and biking trails provide a scenic way to explore the natural surroundings. These paths are well-maintained and offer a peaceful escape. While the splash pad is seasonal, the natural beauty and wildlife viewing opportunities make Elmer Thomas Park a worthwhile visit throughout the year.
❤️ Military Families & History Buffs
Visiting the memorial can be a meaningful experience, especially for those with connections to Fort Sill. It provides a tangible link to the military community and serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made. The park's proximity to Fort Sill also makes it a convenient and accessible outing for families stationed there.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Prairie Dogs
The best times to spot prairie dogs are generally during the cooler parts of the day, such as early mornings and late afternoons. They are most active when foraging and socializing. The sheer number of them throughout the park means you're almost guaranteed to see them, making it a consistently rewarding experience for wildlife enthusiasts. Remember to maintain a respectful distance and avoid feeding them, as this can disrupt their natural behavior and diet.
Family Fun at the Playground and Splash Pad
It's important to note that the splash pad operates on a seasonal schedule and typically closes by early October, even if the weather remains warm. Visitors planning a trip specifically for the water features should confirm operating dates. The playground, however, remains a fantastic attraction year-round. Parents often appreciate the covered picnic areas nearby, allowing for easy supervision and a comfortable spot to relax while the children play.
A Place of Remembrance: The Military Memorial
Visitors often find the memorial to be a moving addition to their park visit. It's a well-maintained area that encourages contemplation and appreciation. The memorial is strategically located, allowing visitors to easily incorporate a moment of reflection into their day of recreation, whether they are enjoying the walking trails or visiting the playground.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit