Elmer Thomas Maintenance Starts This April, Here’s How You Can Work Around It

Recently, the city of Lawton announced that they would begin site preparation and park maintenance in Elmer Thomas Park. Starting April 15, Lawtonians will not be able to use rental spaces until their work is done.

Elmer Thomas Park is usually the town's go-to spot for quiet, relaxation, and a peaceful spot for gatherings and group activities. The sounds of maintenance work and chaos will definitely make it hard to enjoy the peace and quiet.

People are already wondering where they can turn to in order to get their walking in, jogging, or to meet up with their groups. Here are some spots in Lawton that may not be as busy, as well as a few other options if you're willing to travel.

Elmer Thomas Park Rental Updates Begin April 15, 2026

Although the rental spaces will be paused starting April 15, maintenance work may affect other areas, as well. Multimedia Specialist for the City of Lawton, Madalynn Elkouri, told us "once construction begins, some areas may be temporarily blocked off, which could affect access to the walking trail," she said.

"At this time, we do not yet know how much space will be needed or the exact work schedule. Updates will be shared as more information becomes available."

So, for those who use Elmer Thomas Park's walking trail for their daily exercise, you may have to work around marked off areas, or you can opt to use a different park in or around Lawton to get the job done.

Where Else Can People Go To Walk, Jog, Or Bike In Lawton?

Elmer Thomas is undoubtedly Lawton's largest park.

When it gets too busy, there are always other parks that you can visit, but only a few have paved walking trails: Kids Zone at Greer Park and Liberty Lake Park, also known as the Duck Park.

Lawton still has several other playgrounds to visit, but they don't offer trails for running or cycling. However, if you're willing and able to travel outside of Lawton, there are more than enough options.

Best Spots To Get Your Exercise Just Outside of Lawton, Oklahoma

Depending on how far you want to travel, there are several options for running, walking your dog, or even cycling just outside of Lawton. Medicine Park is serene during the week, especially during the winter and busy months.

If you don't mind hitting a dirt trail, you can find several loops near Medicine Park, Lake Lawtonka, and even on Fort Sill. All that you need to get onto post is a pass, Real ID, or qualifying paperwork like a passport.

There are hidden, quiet spots everywhere around Lake Lawtonka, especially near the RV Park and Recreation areas.

Of course, if you're really wanting to try something new, you can always wake up early enough to walk one of the many, many trails on the Wichita Mountain Wildlife Refuge.

READ MORE: Best Spring Hiking Trails On The Wichita Mountain Wildlife Refuge