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Elmer Thomas Park
4.6 ★★★★★ 2,348 Google reviews · Running trail in Lawton, Oklahoma · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Elmer Thomas Park's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
This park features a playground, a splash pad, a covered picnic area, restrooms, a pond & more.
What runners say about Elmer Thomas Park
“This is a gorgeous park, well-groomed and clean, complemented with a lake walking and jogging paths that bring nature to the urban environment.”
Do away with the no smoking ban and no alcoholic beverages,I mean that's what makes disc golf fun. Also there should not be a time that you are not allowed in the park. The reason being is it is an unconstitutional city code and city code does not trump the constitution. Retain your rights or loose your freedom.
Great walking trails that can also be great for bike riding. There are several areas to park, picnic tables, and restrooms. Tons and tons of prairie dogs to sit and watch tons! Playground area for kids. 🩷✌️
I enjoy visiting this park. It has a great route for walking, jogging, or running. I believe there is also a dirt bike trail. Lots of frisbee golf. A nice pond with ducks, geese, and other aquatic birds. There are several photo spots from a garden to memorials for soldiers.
Had a great time with the kiddos here today! We sat in one of the picnic areas and ate then played in the huge park! Definitely the best park in Lawton! Child friendly and plenty of room to run around!
Trail conditions & character
“A beautiful stay of lights with a sprinkle of Santa's cheer and his sleigh to let the children know he's seen their name on the nice list.”
“The presence of wild animals such as prairie dogs, squirrels, ducks, birds, and Canadian geese makes every visit a very pleasant experience.”
“There are several areas to park, picnic tables, and restrooms.”
“This is a gorgeous park, well-groomed and clean, complemented with a lake walking and jogging paths that bring nature to the urban environment.”
Plan your run at Elmer Thomas Park
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- LightingRunners report lights on the path — useful for pre-dawn and after-work miles. Lighting and opening hours are separate things, so check both.
- At the trailheadrestrooms — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Phone+1 580-581-3400
Hours
| Monday | 6 am–11 pm |
| Tuesday | 6 am–11 pm |
| Wednesday | 6 am–11 pm |
| Thursday | 6 am–11 pm |
| Friday | 6 am–11 pm |
| Saturday | 6 am–11 pm |
| Sunday | 6 am–11 pm |
Running trails near Lawton
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Liberty Lake Park
4.3 ★★★★☆ 422 reviews
Playground, swings, slides, and ponds for ducks and geese.
KG Park
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Artillery Row Walking Trail
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Walk-through of artillery pieces and air defense weapons dating back 200 years, with placards for historical context.
Ambrosia Springs Park
4.5 ★★★★★ 36 reviews
Small, tranquil open space at Fort Sill with mature trees, play equipment & a picnic pavilion.
Lake Lawtonka Dam
4.6 ★★★★★ 129 reviews
Park featuring a lake where visitors can hike, fish, and bike.