As a nature photographer, I was immediately drawn to Charon’s Garden Wilderness in southwestern Oklahoma. This remarkable area is part of the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge. Named after the ferryman of Hades in Greek mythology, Charon’s Garden exudes a mystical quality that complements its rugged and captivating scenery.
The landscape here is diverse, with serene lakes, cascading streams, and massive granite boulders that seem to have been scattered by the hands of time. On my visit, I began at the south trailhead, following the Charon’s Garden Trail. This trail is a favorite for hikers and photographers alike, offering stunning views at every turn.
Armed with my Fujifilm X100T camera mounted on a sturdy tripod, I set out to document this extraordinary environment. Each step revealed something new—a patch of wildflowers blooming among the rocks, the soft ripples of a pond reflecting the sky, or the way the light filtered through the trees. The two small waterfalls spilling over ancient stone were especially striking, their quiet power a reminder of the wilderness’s timeless energy.
Wildlife is abundant here, adding another layer of intrigue for photographers. While exploring, I caught sight of a herd of elk grazing in the distance and watched a red-tailed hawk soaring overhead. The opportunity to capture these moments alongside the striking landscapes made this trip unforgettable.
Photographing Charon’s Garden Wilderness was a humbling experience. The untouched beauty of this place speaks to the raw power of nature. It’s places like this that fuel my passion for wildlife and landscape photography.
Camera Settings
- AV Mode
- Aperture f8
- ISO 200
- Shutter speed – 1/12
- Focal Length – 23 mm (Fixed)
If you visit, take your time to explore every corner. Here’s another photo I took at this refuge: Jed Johnson Tower