I photographed this peaceful scene at Treasure Lake in Oklahoma’s Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, just before a storm rolled in. The sky was beginning to shift, but I had a brief moment of good light. The granite outcrops, the mirror-like water, and the gathering clouds all came together to create a scene that felt both rugged and serene.
Rugged Granite and Reflective Calm
Located in the Charon’s Garden Wilderness Area, Treasure Lake is surrounded by striking rock formations and lush vegetation. The lake itself reflects the dramatic granite backdrop, especially during the golden hour or just before a weather shift, like during my visit. That quiet stillness before the storm made for a unique photographic opportunity.
If you enjoy landscapes like this one, I’ve shared more from the area in my post on the Landscapes of Wichita Mountains National Wildlife Refuge.
How to Get There
You can reach Treasure Lake via the Charon’s Garden Trail, a moderately challenging 2.4-mile hike. The trail begins at the Sunset Picnic Area and ends near the Treasure Lake Parking Area. I parked at the Treasure Lake Parking Area and walked a short distance to get this photo. Along the way, you’re treated to granite boulders, wildflowers, and possible sightings of bison, white-tailed deer, or even a collared lizard.
A Photographer’s Viewpoint
This spot is a favorite of mine for landscape photography. The combination of dramatic rock formations and still water provides a perfect setting for capturing reflections and texture. On this trip, the clouds added a dramatic layer, signaling a coming change in the weather.
Camera Settings for This Shot
- Camera: Fujifilm X100VI
- Lens: 23.0 mm f/2.0
- Aperture: ƒ/8
- Focal Length: 23.0 mm
- Shutter Speed: 1/170
- ISO: 6400
- Exposure Compensation: -0.33
This compact setup allowed me to quickly capture the scene before the light disappeared.