Based on the optical turbulence parameterization of Tatarski theory, the optical turbulence profiles of upper air at Gaomeigu, Maoming and Urumqi are simulated by numerical weather research and forecasting (WRF) model. Simulation results are compared with optical turbulence measured by micro-thermometer at Gaomeigu and Maoming. It shows that the simulated and measured optical turbulence profiles are consistent well, and the correlation coefficient is up to 76%. The verified results at Gaomeigu and Maoming show that the method by using WRF model to simulate optical turbulence is feasible, and the optical turbulence profile of upper air at Urumqi is obtained. Combined with the climatic features of these three typical areas, characteristics and variation trend of upper air optical turbulence under different climate types are analyzed.