Quartz Mountain State Park is built around a set of pink granite outcrops on the shore of Lake Altus-Lugert, about 50 kilometres (30 miles) north of Altus — easily the best day-trip destination from the city. The "Quartz Mountain" here is a low rocky peak rather than an actual mountain, but the rocks are striking, the lake is wide and good for swimming and fishing, and the surrounding land is genuinely scenic for the Oklahoma plains.
The park has campgrounds, walking trails, a swimming beach, and a lodge with a small restaurant. The adjacent Quartz Mountain Arts and Conference Center is the home of the Oklahoma Arts Institute, which runs summer programs and concerts each year. Hiking trails climb the outcrops to viewpoints over the lake. There is a separate state golf course attached. Allow a full day to make the round trip worthwhile.