Mangum Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do in Mangum, Oklahoma with our comprehensive travel guide. Explore the top attractions, places to stay, and more.


Introduction to Mangum

Welcome to Mangum, Oklahoma - a small town that packs a punch when it comes to outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and culinary delights. The city is located in the heart of Great Plains Country, making it an ideal destination for history buffs, nature enthusiasts, and foodies alike

List of Places to Visit in Mangum

Mangum is home to numerous attractions that are worth exploring. Here are some of the must-visit places in the city:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Greer County Museum: This museum is a tribute to the history and legacy of the region, with exhibits showcasing everything from antique cars to Native American artifacts.
  • Kiowa Tribal Museum: Take a trip through the history of the Kiowa tribe and learn about their customs and traditions.
  • Old Greer County Museum: Take a stroll through the historic buildings of Greer County to get a sense of what life was like in the late 1800s.

Natural Attractions of Mangum: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Quartz Mountain Nature Park: Explore the natural beauty of Mangum through hiking trails, rock climbing, and fishing in the freshwater lake.
  • Sandy Sanders Wildlife Management Area: A fantastic destination for bird watching and fishing, where you can interact with a wide variety of aquatic life.
  • Lake Altus: A popular spot for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing, with stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Mangum

Mangum offers hikers and bikers a plethora of trails to explore. Some of the popular routes include:

  • Quartz Mountain Trail: A challenging 4-mile hike that takes you to the top of Quartz Mountain, offering panoramic views of the area.
  • Turkey Creek Trail: A leisurely hike that takes you to the banks of Turkey Creek, where you can spot some unique rock formations and wildflowers.
  • Sandy Sanders Trail: A 5-mile loop trail that takes you through the wildlife area, with opportunities to spot a variety of birds and other wildlife.

Best Things to Do in Mangum: Activities and Tours

  • Horseback Riding: Take a guided horseback ride through the scenic countryside and explore the natural beauty of the region.
  • Fishing Trips: Join a guided fishing tour to catch some of the area’s most prized freshwater fish, including bass and catfish.
  • Kiowa Cultural Tours: Learn about the Kiowa tribe’s rich cultural heritage and traditions through a guided tour of the tribe’s lands and buildings.

Week-Long Itinerary for Mangum

Day 1: Greer County Museum and Old Greer County Museum

Day 2: Quartz Mountain Nature Park

Day 3: Kiowa Cultural Tour

Day 4: Sandy Sanders Wildlife Management Area

Day 5: Horseback Riding

Day 6: Lake Altus

Day 7: Shopping for souvenirs

Food and Drink Scene of Mangum

Mangum is home to some of the best local cuisine in the region. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Chicken Fried Steak: A classic Southern dish made with steak breaded and fried to perfection.
  • Fried Catfish: Freshly caught catfish dredged in cornmeal and deep-fried until crispy.
  • Fried Okra: A staple of Southern cuisine, made with freshly battered okra and fried to perfection.

Local Beverages

  • Oklahoma Bentonite: A locally brewed beer with a warm, earthy flavor.
  • Grape Dumplin’ Wine: Made with local grapes and distilled to produce a sweet, smooth flavor.

Where to Stay in Mangum: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Mangum offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  • Quartz Mountain Resort: A luxury resort with stunning views of the mountains and lake, featuring spa facilities and five-star dining.
  • Mangum Manor: A charming guesthouse with comfortable rooms and a homely ambiance, offering a home away from home experience.
  • Lake Altus Camping: A budget-friendly option for nature enthusiasts, with campsites located right on the shores of Lake Altus.

What to Buy in Mangum: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Kiowa artisan crafts and jewelry: handmade items crafted by the Kiowa tribe using traditional methods.
  • Oklahoma Bentonite Beer: bring home a six-pack of this locally brewed beer as a tasty souvenir from your trip.
  • Oklahoma-grown pecans: a southern favorite, these pecans are locally grown and harvested, and come in a variety of flavors.

Local Culture and Customs of Mangum

Mangum has a rich cultural history, with strong ties to the Native American tribes who have lived in the area for generations. Visitors can learn about the Kiowa tribe’s rich cultural heritage through guided tours that explore the tribe’s lands and buildings.

Best Time to Visit Mangum

The best time to visit Mangum is during the summer months when the weather is warm and sunny. Spring and fall are also excellent seasons to visit, with crisp temperatures and beautiful foliage.

Do’s and Don’ts of Mangum

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions of the Native American tribes.
  • Try the local cuisine, which is a unique blend of Southern and Native American flavors.
  • Take a guided tour through the Kiowa Tribal Museum to learn more about the tribe’s fascinating history.

Don’t:

  • Ignore the natural beauty of the region; take a hike or participate in outdoor activities to truly appreciate your surroundings.
  • Disrespect the local wildlife; please leave nature as you found it for future generations to enjoy.

Safety and Health

Safety in Mangum

Mangum is a safe destination for visitors, with a low incidence of crime reported in the area. However, visitors should take usual precautions when out alone at night and ensure they keep valuables out of sight.

Health in Mangum

Mangum has one hospital, the Mangum Regional Medical Center, and several health clinics. Visitors should ensure they have travel insurance and seek emergency medical care if needed.

Getting to Mangum: Transportation Options and Logistics

Mangum is located in southwest Oklahoma, approximately 125 miles west of Oklahoma City. Here are the transportation options for getting to and around the area:

Airports Near Mangum

  • Will Rogers World Airport (OKC): Oklahoma City’s international airport, located approximately two hours away from Mangum.

Bus Stations Near Mangum

  • Greyhound Bus Lines: The nearest Greyhound bus station is located in Altus, approximately 20 miles from Mangum.

Other Options

  • Car rental: The best way to get around the area is by car, with several car rental companies located in Oklahoma City and Altus.

How to Get Around in Mangum

Mangum is a small town, and most of the town’s attractions are within walking distance of each other. However, visitors can rent a car or use local taxi services to get around the area.

Where to Go Next from Mangum: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Altus, Oklahoma: Located 20 miles away from Mangum, Altus is a bustling city known for its Air Force Base and several local attractions, including the Museum of the Western Prairie.
  • Wichita Falls, Texas: Located 90 miles west of Mangum, Wichita Falls offers a range of interesting attractions, including the River Bend Nature Center and the Wichita Falls Railroad Museum.

Conclusion

Mangum, Oklahoma, offers visitors a unique blend of outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and culinary delights. With its rich history and natural beauty, this small town in the heart of Great Plains Country should be a must-visit destination for any traveler seeking authentic Southern charm and hospitality.