Hidden Spots Near Lawton, Oklahoma To Help Cure Depression

Before you say it - these spots may not actually cure depression. But they're the best places I've found peace and quiet when the noise of the world gets a little too loud. And these days, a little silence could go a very long ways for most of us.

These spots are free to visit, family and pet friendly, and are generally some of the quietest spots in southwest Oklahoma. While it's always better to be safe and travel with a partner, sometimes we just need some to ourselves. These spots are also perfect for solo hikers and travelers who just need some time alone.

If you're like the 35% of adults in Oklahoma who've reported having anxious or depressive disorders, then these places can help you escape for a little while.

Inn Habit - Medicine Park, Oklahoma

Not only are they one of the newest additions to Medicine Park, but it is genuinely like no other place in Oklahoma. The resort rooms and businesses are all set up in shipping containers and the spirit here is welcoming and creative.

@visitmedicinepark Medicine Park will take Unique places for 500. Check out this VERY unique place in the Park. Refuge Ale House. Located at InnHabit tiny house resort. #medicinepark #visitmedicinepark #oklahoma #explore #adventure #travel #fun ♬ son original - KIM

Sometimes a good distraction can help us cope with what's going on in our lives. Distract yourself with some class A people-watching, exploring, and incredible scenery.

Keep in mind that visiting the businesses doesn't require an entry fee, but you will need to schedule a stay if you're wanting to stay in the resort. 

Lost Lake - Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge

This is possibly one of my all-time favorite trails, mainly because you have to know where it's at in order to find it. 

@danicarsonmusic Definitrly one of my favorite trails! And the best part: theres even MORE that we get to explore! Found a little treasure spot and I cannot wait to see whats beyond it next time. #selflove #somethingbeautiful #torikelly #oklahoma #wildliferefuge #wichitamountains #wichitamountainswildliferefuge #land #cattle #bison #midwest #danicarsonmusic #dogs #dogtraining #billiejean #rosa #lostlake #trails #hiking #happy #winter #foggy #chillyweather #outdoors #active #fit #fitness ♬ Something Beautiful - Tori Kelly

Beware - this particular trail can be addicting. There's usually bison and longhorns roaming nearby or at the entrance of the trail and the view is spectacular.

You're only hint from me to find this hidden gem is to pay close attention to the road on the way to Kite Trail and take it slow.

Osage Lake - Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge

Believe it or not, Osage Lake trail is so expansive that, even with multiple people on the trails, I've been able to have an entire hike without running into anyone until the very end when we're all loading up in our cars.

@mother.of.athletes Osage Lake in the Wichitas Mountain Wildlife Refuge #retokfornature #fyp #Locsoflove #hikersoftiktok #naturesdaughter #getoutside #healersoftiktok #MentalHealth #mentalhealthmatters #TakeAHike #Osage #Water #sky #Cave ♬ original sound - John Green

I also love this trail for the fact that it's relatively easy to cruise through. It has just enough diverse terrain to keep you focused on your feet rather than what's going on behind the scenes of your life.

The Creek Walk - Medicine Park

You may not see it from the road, but there's a beautiful sidewalk that runs along Medicine Creek in Medicine Park. It stretches all the way from Hitchin' Post Park, past the businesses and shops, through Bath Lake, and down to the trout fishing area. Medicine Park's streets are usually swarmed with people.

But the Creek Walk below is generally quiet and secluded. It also has seating areas spread along the route and leads to some very comfortable rocks. Deep thoughts and peace are usually waiting for you here.

Burford Lake Trail - Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge

In my experience, this seems to be one of the most overlooked trails on the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge. It's a bit ironic that so many people pass it up since it's one of the most developed trails they've curated for hikers.

@danicarsonmusic Our hike from the other morning! Definitely one of the more educational trails - i think we’ll be carrying walking sticks from now on Not for walking, though - for taking out those spider webs ️️

♬ Good Life - OneRepublic

There are placards and information cards scattered on the trail, showing visitors the history, geography, and other important info about this lake. If you need a hike that will keep you busy and working, this is a trail you shouldn't pass up.

Old Robinson Landing Dock - Lawton, Oklahoma

It's been years since Robinsons Landing was open. Now, instead of a shoreline shop, the city of Lawton has cleared the area and left it vacant. But this boating area on Lake Lawtonka has been one of the best entrances for canoeing and paddleboarding.

Although the old shop doesn't sit there, visitors can still bring their boats, kayaks, and other floating devices to a less busy part of the lake.

Tell us where you escape to when you're trying to feel better by messaging us through the app.

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