Lawton Live Cam

Lawton is a city in southwestern Oklahoma, United States, with a population of approximately 96,800 people as of 2020. It is the fifth-largest city in Oklahoma and serves as the county seat of Comanche County.

The city was founded in 1901, when the federal government opened up the Kiowa-Comanche-Apache reservation for settlement. Originally called "Lawtonka," after a nearby lake, the city was later renamed Lawton in honor of General Henry W. Lawton, a distinguished American soldier who had served in the Indian Wars and Spanish-American War.

Lawton has a rich history and cultural heritage, with numerous historic sites and museums to explore. The city is home to the Fort Sill Army Base, which has been in continuous operation since the late 1800s and played a critical role in the settlement of the region.

In addition to its military heritage, Lawton is also known for its outdoor recreation opportunities. The Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, located just northwest of the city, is a popular destination for hiking, camping, and wildlife watching. Lake Lawtonka and Lake Ellsworth are also popular spots for fishing, boating, and other water sports.

Overall, Lawton offers a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a unique and interesting place to visit or call home.

Top Tourist Attractions

• Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge: This protected area is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including bison, elk, deer, and prairie dogs, as well as stunning natural features such as granite mountains and canyons. It's a popular destination for hiking, camping, and wildlife watching.
• Museum of the Great Plains: This museum features exhibits on the history, culture, and natural environment of the Great Plains region. It includes interactive displays, artifacts, and educational programs for visitors of all ages.
• Fort Sill National Historic Landmark and Museum: Located on the grounds of the Fort Sill Army Base, this museum showcases the history of the U.S. Army in the American West. Visitors can explore exhibits on Native American culture, military history, and artillery.
• Holy City of the Wichitas: This outdoor religious pageant is held annually on Easter weekend and depicts the life and death of Jesus Christ. It includes live actors, elaborate sets, and special effects.
• Lake Lawtonka: This scenic lake offers a variety of water sports, including boating, fishing, and swimming. It's also surrounded by hiking trails and picnic areas.
• Comanche National Museum and Cultural Center: This museum explores the history and culture of the Comanche people, including exhibits on their art, language, and traditions.
• Historic Mattie Beal Home: This restored Victorian home is a popular destination for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts. It offers tours and special events throughout the year.

Overall, Lawton offers a diverse range of attractions and activities that showcase the region's natural beauty, cultural heritage, and history.

Climate

Lawton has a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters. The city experiences four distinct seasons, with precipitation occurring fairly evenly throughout the year.

In the summer months (June to August), average high temperatures range from the mid-90s°F (35-36°C), with overnight lows in the mid-70s°F (24-25°C). Heatwaves are not uncommon during the summer, with temperatures occasionally exceeding 100°F (38°C). Thunderstorms are also common during the summer months, and can occasionally be severe.

In the winter months (December to February), average high temperatures range from the mid-50s°F (12-13°C), with overnight lows in the mid-30s°F (1-2°C). Snowfall is relatively rare in Lawton, with only a few inches falling each year.

Spring and fall are transitional seasons in Lawton, with temperatures gradually warming up or cooling down. Spring can be a particularly active time for severe weather, including tornadoes. Overall, Lawton's climate is generally mild, but visitors should be prepared for hot and humid conditions during the summer months, and sudden weather changes at other times of the year.

Geography

The city covers an area of approximately 82 square miles (212 square kilometers), with an elevation of 1,138 feet (347 meters) above sea level.

Lawton is situated in a region known as the Great Plains, which is characterized by flat terrain and rolling hills. The city is surrounded by a mix of grasslands, farmland, and wooded areas, with several lakes and reservoirs in the vicinity.

The Wichita Mountains, located just northwest of Lawton, are a prominent feature of the landscape. These ancient mountains are composed of granite and rise up to 2,500 feet (760 meters) above sea level. They are home to a variety of wildlife, including bison, elk, and deer, as well as numerous hiking trails and scenic overlooks.

The city is crossed by several major highways, including Interstate 44 and U.S. Highway 62, which provide easy access to other parts of Oklahoma and Texas. The Lawton-Fort Sill Regional Airport offers commercial flights to several destinations in the region. Overall, Lawton's location in the Great Plains region of Oklahoma provides a mix of natural beauty, open spaces, and easy access to other parts of the state and region.