Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge (Refuge) is experiencing extreme heat with temperatures exceeding 100 degrees, which is expected to continue. These weather conditions, coupled with the rocky and rugged terrain of the Refuge, pose safety hazards for visitors as well as Refuge and other emergency response personnel who may be called upon for search and rescue operations during this extreme heat.
To reduce potential safety hazards associated with heat related illnesses or injuries, the Refuge is implementing the following Emergency Closure Order to restrict hiking during extreme temperatures effective Thursday, July 24, 2025 until removed. Refuge regulations grant the authority to restrict uses on refuge lands “…in the event of a threat or emergency endangering the health and safety of the public or property…� We request the public’s cooperation in implementing this order:
1. Hiking is permitted from sunrise until 10 a.m. ONLY.
2. All hikers on trails and the Mt. Scott Roadway must exit by 10:00am
3. After 10 a.m. daily, the Refuge will be closed to all hiking.
Refuge roads will remain open to motorized vehicles and bicycles for wildlife observation and photography. Doris Campground, fishing and picnicking will not be impacted, but backcountry camping will not be allowed. While the Visitor Center is currently closed, a Visitor Contact Station at the new Refuge Headquarters located 1/4 mile east of the Visitor Center is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily and can provide alternative suggestions to hiking or camping.
A few safety tips to remember - bring plenty of water, wear loose-fitting clothing that is light in color, wear a cap or hat, and limit the amount of time you spend outdoors in extreme temperatures. The safety of visitors, staff and first responders is our highest priority. We apologize for any inconvenience the Emergency Closure Order may cause.
Information about the Emergency Closure Order on hiking can be found on the Refuge website at www.fws.gov/refuge/wichita_mountains or by contacting the Visitor Center at 580-429-3222.
