Self Storage Units in Lawton, OK, on Park Ave

Regional Insights for Lawton, OK

Whether you’re relocating to a new city, downsizing, or renovating your home, KO Storage offers a practical way to temporarily store your belongings. Self-storage allows you to declutter your space, making the moving process more efficient and organized. This ensures that your possessions are safely stowed away until you’re ready to settle into your new home, making the transition smoother and less stressful. Moving and KO Storage work together to offer a flexible and convenient approach to managing your belongings during times of change. But we also want to help you get accustomed to your new area, that’s why we’ve done the research and assembled this Lawton area guide.

History of Lawton:

Lawton, Oklahoma, has a history as rich and diverse as the landscape that surrounds it. Situated in the southwestern part of the state, Lawton’s story begins long before European settlement, with indigenous peoples such as the Kiowa, Comanche, and Apache tribes calling the area home for centuries. These tribes roamed the vast prairies and hunted bison across the region, leaving their mark on the land and shaping its cultural heritage. The city of Lawton itself was founded in 1901, during the period of the Land Run of 1901, which opened up the Kiowa-Comanche-Apache Reservation to non-Native settlers. Named after Major General Henry Ware Lawton, a distinguished military leader known for his service during the Civil War and campaigns against Native American tribes, Lawton quickly grew into a bustling frontier town. Lawton’s early years were marked by rapid development and expansion, fueled by the arrival of settlers drawn to the promise of fertile land and economic opportunities. Agriculture played a central role in the city’s economy, with cotton, wheat, and cattle driving its prosperity. The discovery of oil in the region further bolstered Lawton’s growth, attracting investment and industry to the area. The military also played a significant role in Lawton’s history, with the establishment of Fort Sill in 1869. Originally established as a cavalry outpost to protect settlers and facilitate westward expansion, Fort Sill later became a key training center for the U.S. Army, specializing in artillery and missile defense. Today, Fort Sill remains an integral part of Lawton’s identity, contributing to the city’s economy and cultural fabric. Throughout the 20th century, Lawton continued to evolve, embracing modernization while preserving its rich heritage. The city weathered economic challenges, including the Great Depression and the decline of the agricultural sector, by diversifying its economy and investing in new industries. Today, Lawton is a vibrant community with a diverse population, thriving economy, and strong sense of pride in its history and heritage.

Schools in Lawton:

At the primary and secondary levels, Lawton Public Schools oversees a comprehensive network of schools dedicated to providing quality education to the community. Among these institutions are Eisenhower High School, Lawton High School, MacArthur High School, and Tomlinson Middle School, each serving specific neighborhoods within the city. Additionally, elementary schools such as Adams Elementary, Cleveland Elementary, and Ridgecrest Elementary offer foundational education to young learners, nurturing their academic and personal development. In addition to its public school system, Lawton boasts several private and charter schools that provide alternative educational options for families in the area. Schools like St. Mary’s Catholic School and Lawton Academy of Arts and Sciences offer unique curricula and educational philosophies, catering to the diverse needs and interests of students. For those pursuing higher education, Lawton is home to Cameron University, a comprehensive public university offering undergraduate and graduate programs in a variety of fields. Established in 1908, Cameron University has a long-standing tradition of academic excellence and community engagement, providing students with opportunities for personal and professional growth. The university’s vibrant campus serves as a hub of learning and innovation, fostering intellectual curiosity and cultural enrichment among its students and faculty. Additionally, Lawton is situated near other higher education institutions, including Great Plains Technology Center, which offers vocational and technical training programs to prepare students for careers in fields such as healthcare, automotive technology, and culinary arts.

Lawton’s Diverse and Robust Economy:

Lawton, Oklahoma, is home to a thriving business community that contributes to the city’s economic growth and vitality. From healthcare to manufacturing to retail, Lawton boasts a diverse range of businesses that serve the needs of its residents and beyond. Comanche Nation Casino offers a dynamic gaming experience with slots, table games, and entertainment options, attracting visitors from across the region. Goodyear operates a manufacturing plant in Lawton, producing a variety of tires for consumer and commercial vehicles, contributing to the city’s industrial sector. Southwestern Medical Center is a leading healthcare provider in Lawton, offering a range of medical services, including emergency care, surgery, and specialized treatments. Walmart operates a large retail store in Lawton, providing a wide selection of products, including groceries, clothing, electronics, and household essentials, to residents. Lawton Public Schools is the primary school district serving the community, overseeing a network of schools dedicated to providing quality education to students from kindergarten through 12th grade. Reynolds Army Health Clinic provides comprehensive healthcare services to military personnel and their families stationed at Fort Sill, contributing to the well-being of the local military community. Cameron University is a public university located in Lawton, offering undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields, contributing to the city’s educational landscape and intellectual capital. Lawton Chrysler Jeep Dodge RAM is a prominent automotive dealership offering a wide selection of new and used vehicles, along with comprehensive automotive services and repairs. Arvest Bank is a trusted financial institution providing banking products and services, including savings accounts, loans, and investment options, to individuals and businesses in Lawton. Cintas Corporation provides a range of products and services, including uniform rental, facility services, and safety supplies, serving businesses and organizations in Lawton and beyond. Republic Services is a waste management company offering recycling, composting, and disposal solutions to residential, commercial, and industrial customers in Lawton and the surrounding areas. Golden Corral is a popular buffet restaurant in Lawton, offering a wide selection of dishes, including steak, seafood, and comfort foods, to diners seeking a hearty meal at an affordable price.

Discover Lawton: A Blend of History, Culture, and Outdoor Charm:

Nature enthusiasts will find plenty to do in Lawton’s scenic surroundings. The Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, located just a short drive from the city, offers miles of hiking trails, scenic drives, and wildlife viewing opportunities. Visitors can spot bison, elk, deer, and a variety of bird species as they explore the refuge’s rugged terrain and pristine landscapes. Additionally, the refuge is home to iconic landmarks such as Mount Scott and the Holy City, which offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside. For history buffs, Lawton boasts several museums and historic sites that provide insight into the area’s rich heritage. The Fort Sill National Historic Landmark & Museum offers a glimpse into the region’s military history, with exhibits on the frontier army, Native American culture, and the role of Fort Sill in shaping the American West. Meanwhile, the Museum of the Great Plains showcases the natural and cultural history of the Great Plains region, featuring exhibits on archaeology, paleontology, and pioneer life. Art and culture enthusiasts will appreciate Lawton’s thriving arts scene, which includes galleries, theaters, and performance venues showcasing local talent and national touring acts. The Leslie Powell Foundation Gallery hosts rotating art exhibits featuring works by regional artists, while the McMahon Memorial Auditorium presents live music, theater productions, and community events throughout the year. Additionally, the Lawton Philharmonic Orchestra and Lawton Community Theatre offer performances ranging from classical music concerts to Broadway-style productions, providing entertainment for audiences of all ages. Foodies will delight in Lawton’s diverse dining scene, which offers everything from down-home barbecue joints to upscale fine dining establishments. Local favorites include Meers Store & Restaurant, known for its legendary burgers made from Texas Longhorn beef, and Ann’s Country Kitchen, a beloved diner serving up hearty breakfasts and homestyle comfort food. Visitors can also sample international cuisine at restaurants like Fuji Japanese Steakhouse or El Chico Mexican Restaurant, experiencing flavors from around the world without leaving Lawton’s city limits. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of recreational opportunities in Lawton’s parks and green spaces. Elmer Thomas Park, located along the banks of the scenic Medicine Creek, offers picnic areas, playgrounds, and walking trails, as well as a splash pad and fishing pond. Meanwhile, Lake Lawtonka provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and water sports, with scenic vistas and opportunities for wildlife viewing along its shores.