Buffalo Lake National Wildlife Refuge, near Canyon, Texas, is a unique spot for those looking to immerse themselves in nature without the usual frills. With designated sites and a peaceful atmosphere, it’s a solid choice for a quick getaway or a longer stay, especially if you appreciate the beauty of the Great Plains.

The campground offers basic amenities like picnic tables and pit toilets, but don’t expect much more than that. Visitors have noted the lack of water and other facilities, which keeps things simple and allows you to focus on the natural surroundings. One camper mentioned, “It was quiet, maybe 1 or 2 others during my stay,” highlighting the serene environment that many appreciate.

For those who enjoy wildlife watching, this location is a treat. You might catch sight of birds and other critters while taking in the expansive views. The area is also great for stargazing, with minimal light pollution to spoil the view. As one reviewer put it, “It was like being out on the Great Plains 150 years ago,” capturing the essence of the experience here.

If you’re up for a little adventure, the gravel road leading to the campground is manageable for most vehicles, and the drive itself can be quite scenic. Just remember, it’s a bit of a trek from nearby attractions, so plan accordingly. Whether you’re pitching a tent or parking your RV, Buffalo Lake offers a chance to disconnect and enjoy the great outdoors.

Buffalo Lake National Wildlife Refuge

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Canyon, TX has a lot to offer. Canyon is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Canyon, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Canyon

The Best Camping Near Canyon, Texas

What a neat place to camp. With a National Parks Pass you can camp here for free. So peaceful with walking trails that were really nice. There was only one other group there when we were there at the end of May. Pit toilets are available. Area isn't paved (but dirt/gravel road throughout that shouldn't be an issue for any car).

Paradise in Texas

I have an America The Beautiful Pass so with this I was able to stay here for FREE!! I love finding sites where I get to use the full benefits of my annual pass it makes it all the. more sweet!!

When we drove to this site the road was even and able to easily be navigated over with my small car. I wasn't sure if there would be a site for a tent, but there was more than enough room for us to spread out and be comfortable. This isn't a RV only type of site!!

It was a great nature watching site with views of the Great Plains of Texas in a way that made them more interesting than just a flat landscape while driving through this area of Texas, which is what you typically experience when traveling the panhandle.

There is also a driving tour route which makes of a great way to experience to full potential of this Wildlife Refuge site.

While amenities are limited there is a restroom which is open always and picnic tables are available. There is a 7 day limit to stay at this location which was posted on the main kiosk when we entered. We spent a single night here and only saw one other camper.

FREE Texas Camping With Plains Views

I got there after 5 so the ranger station was closed. I drove in over some one-way dragons teeth spikes in the pavement and a sign that said the park closed at 8 pm and opened again at 8 am. Apparently the one way dragons teeth spikes make that happen. The lake was dry when I was there and it looked like they’d done a controlled burn between the campground and the lakebed- maybe to promote new grass? I was the only person there however and it was like being out on the Great Plains 150 years ago- wind in the grass, stars, coyotes, two owls calling to each other from the trees. From the campground you can see the blinking lights of the wind farms to the east, but that was really the only evidence of the outside world. It was windy, but sublime. 

The Great Plains 

I was caught up in some pretty bad weather after a camping trip to Palo Duro and needed a place to hunker down until the weather cleared. The campground is located down a long gravel road and contains 10 sites. No amenities, just a picnic table. The wind blew dirt everywhere and there was a lot of wind as trees were few and far between. It was quiet, maybe 1 or 2 others during my stay.  The flies and moths were relentless and made the stay less enjoyable. The best part of this stay was the cost. FREE! With an America the Beautiful senior pass.  Otherwise with a reg. ATB pass, it was 2.00 night. No water or dump anywhere near and it’s a bit of a trek to get there from Palo Duro SP.

Nice spot for a one nighter, maybe 2

We we’re driving through and planned to disperse camp at Palo Duro Canyon but the rain flooded the area and they had to close it. We drove here, and it was okay. The grass was tall so we couldn’t really get to the lake from the tent areas. They do have a restroom but we didn’t use it. 

Tent camping

Google maps led me to the wrong place (close!).  It was late, and a quiet area, so I pulled over at a small turn off on the left side of the road, near a small information sign and a small white shack for observing wildlife.  Minimal car traffic and no problems sleeping.  I was roughly near 34.895448,-102.111600

Photos of Buffalo Lake National Wildlife Refuge

Real photos from real campers