Mesquite Campground — Palo Duro Canyon State Park

Traveling from KY to AZ. 36 foot fifth wheel, tow vehicle and second car. Stopped here for 2 nights. Site 85. 50/30/20A and water. No sewer, but 2 dump stations in park. After backing in (very easy) realized it can be used as a pull through entering in front of site 87. Very roomy site. Covered picnic table and fire ring/grill. Didn't use restrooms or showers, but they were clean. Most of site is red dirt, but parked on asphalt and picnic table is on concrete pad. Close to level. If you've never been here, the Mesquite camp area is like 5 or 6 miles past the park entrance gate. Steep grade into canyon and curvy road. Now for the experience. Although some would complain about some things in this park we were able to overlook any problems (we had none anyway) because it was so beautiful. This is the nicest park we've been to in several years. Great scenery, trails everywhere and wildlife. We saw mule deer, roadrunners, rabbits, turkey, lizards, huge centipede, longhorns and lots of birds. Sat at bird viewing station behind the tradepost for a while and saw many different birds. It was hot during the day and cool at night in September. Would definitely stay again. If ess are listed they will include fees for 3 vehicles.

We spent 3 nights in the Mesquite Camping loop. Our site included 30/50amp electric service and water connection. Dump station available on the main road out of the park. The weather was perfect. We arrived after a cold front pushed thru. The days were cool and sunny. Perfect for trail hikes and bike rides. Night skies were clear for star gazing. There is a steep 10% grade down from park HQ to the campgrounds. Roads are in good shape. Campsites are spacious. Ours was plenty long enough for our 35ft rv and truck. We saw several big 5th wheels in the same loop. TMobile 5G service was strong. No WiFi available. Bath house nearby with endless hot water to clean up from the dusty trail hikes.

Our 2nd visit here, glad we came back. Just spectacular scenery & hiking. Mesquite loop is great, and quiet.

Only negative, and it's minor, is the park is always under a burn ban, so plan accordingly for your meals. No fires or charcoal grills allowed.

Tour with my husband and adult son in march 2024

Stayed at 082 at the Mesquite.

Bathrooms they had , a little cold water.

We got there at a super hot day , and decied to do walk before park the RV 28 foot to our spot. Since it was later in day and I wanted to go to the lighthouse.

Great to walk in trail s there ,bring lot s of water and some snack. 

walked for hours then back to the RV and down to the campground 

Very open spot with view of the mountains around , can see the other campers too.

had this overbuild patio to sit under if wanted.

Funny thing tought it was very hot the day we arravied ,the next morning I dressed up in my normal camping shorts and sandals and hoodie early in the morning , the temperatures was dropped a lot true the night and i got out of the RV with my coffee in my hand and tought I was going to sit outside in my chair and enjoy it . I backed inside rapid and got leggings and boots on ,then I could enjoy the view of the sun raise.

Mesquite CG Dash Paul Duro: (Scale 1- bad, 5-Very good

(71 yr olds in 17’ trailer.)

Overall Rating: 5 this is a spectacular Campground. Every site has a view. My favorite sites are listed below. But all sites have the advantage of a view of beautiful geology surrounding the campground. I would say this is the best campground in the park. Price 2023: $ w interagency pass Security: a Park entrance Usage during visit: 70% Site Privacy: varies. Where privacy lax, the view compensates Site Spacing: good., Most Site surface: soil surface Reservations: Yes Campground Noise: Pretty quiet Outside Road Noise: sites near the park Through Traffic in campground: no Electric Hookup: yes Sewer Hookup: no Dump Station: available Potable Water Available: out sites Bathroom: flush toilets Showers: yes Pull Throughs: there are Cell Service (AT&T): two Setting: alongside beautiful red Cliffs Recent Weather: 30 to 70s Insects: none Host: I did not see one at the campground. They are around. Rig Size: there are large Riggs here. Sites: 96, 94,92 90 89, 88,87 81, 79, 78,77

Very quite and restful. Even though the bicycle race and the cross-country race was going on at this time, but here, at Mesquite site at the end of the trail of the road, it’s very quiet !

This is my favorite State campground in TX! This trip I stayed in Mesquite campground and I loved it. While not totally isolated from other sites, the views and location at the end of Park Road make it very desirable. It was warm/hot in the day and cool in the night and the morning.

This campground is all the way at the back of the park. The dark skies viewing is excellent!

The campsite is a small circle with incredible views! We had electric and water hook ups. The bathhouse was clean, but also used by day hikes for the nearby trailhead. The sites also have covered picnic tables.

There is so much exploring that can be done right from the campground. I was able to walk just a short ways and hike to the top of a few different viewing points for sunrise every morning. We can’t wait to come back!

Mesquite campground-8 miles in. Southern tip of the canyon. As close as you can get to dispersed, but with all the amenities of a state park. You can hike and explore straight from the campground. Watch out for rattlers. Bring your own shade and be prepared for windy conditions! Try Palace Coffee in Canyon, TX.

An oasis in desolate west Texas. Amazing views and world class hiking and mountain biking. The Trading Post has food (burgers, fries and ice cream) and souvenirs as well as basic camping gear and supplies in case you forgot something. This is the home to the Texas outdoor musical if your into that sort of thing. Due to the low humidity you’ll find some of the best star gazing in the world here. It does get hot in the summer so bring plenty of water and sunscreen but it cools off nicely after the sun goes down. As of the time of this review it was 101 degrees for a high with a low of 65 tonight. Th RV campsites are water and electric only. If you RV camp at Mesquite or Juniper campground be aware that it is a looooong way to the dump stations if you’re using a portable dump tank. Overall, this is possibly the best state park in Texas. You’ll find plenty of attractions nearby like Cadillac Ranch and the Big Texan in Amarillo. We absolutely love this campground and highly recommend it all year-round!

This park and the campgrounds we stayed at (Mesquite and Juniper) were amazing!! Mesquite sits at the back of the park so you get stellar views, juniper is just before it so still great views in the valley. Both have sun shades at every spot, water, electric, restrooms and showers! Juniper is a bit newer so the shower situation was cleaner but a shower is a shower.

The park is amazing, views and trails for days! We got lucky with a cool front IN MAY, but it did reach into the 100s by the end of our trip. Make sure you are prepared with water and sun coverings.

We love this place because its very close to home. Lots of wild life & plenty of trails to explore. All of the RV spots are nice & clean with great scenery.

This park is beautiful, RV hookups were great. HOWEVER the Dyrt page says there is wifi and cell service. There is NO service whatsoever! We are full time RV’ers who depend on internet/wifi to work. Even at the trading posts and visitor centers there was no wifi or cell service (T-Mobile or Verizon). Aside from that it was clean and quiet. Taking off two stars was only because we depended on the internet and there was none.

This state park is spacey and camp sites are well thought out. Each loop (containing water and electro hook ups) has a bath house with clean restrooms and hot showers.

Your space is clean and ready to be occupied. The electric and water hookup was about 50ft from my setup, but still convenient for me. My space (#Mesquite 85) was perfect for solo travel. My neighbors were far enough away for me to say hello and still have my privacy.

I was close to trails (unmarked) and my space also had a picnic table with shade.

Showers were clean and very HOT! Great for cleaning after a few days walking around dirt.

If you plan to arrive late, then plan to check in the next day. However, you just do so in person. The reason for the four stars is because I was unaware of this information and my roof top tent setup was already set in place when I found out. I arrived a few minutes before park closure but a sign that read “…left for the day due to short staff” was displayed so I proceeded to my site which was a few miles from the check in center.

The next morning, the park host went around the loop checking for permits. Well, in my tent, I watched her approach my neighbor and handed them their permit. About 20 minutes later she noticed me on her way out and asked me for mine, when I explained that I arrived after the center was closed for the day she called to the front and they wanted me to check in, in person.

I wasn’t about to do that, in fact, I was prepared to pack up and leave if I needed to pack and drive a few miles just to check in, and drive back to enjoy one more night of stay—it wasn’t worth it.

I wish they would have a system set for those who reserve online and own a park pass, maybe a printable permit option or something.

However, the park itself is quiet and spacious and clean.

I will return, and will be sure to arrive earlier in the day.

My camp site had a nice tent pad. It was warm under the picnic shelter while cooking and eating supper Had a nice dry and somewhat cool night of sleep.

Water was available in the camp area. There were Porta-potties in the camp area and a full bathroom with shower within 1/2 mile

We were there for a mtb race. I love this place!

We stayed in Palo Duro Canyon in late October 2020. The canyon is beautiful, with numerous hiking trails and places to take in the natural beauty. The sites are huge and generally level with power & water but no sewer. It's worth mentioning that the campground itself is at the end of a dead-end road IN the canyon, with the only access being the aforementioned dead-end road. The road descends into the canyon from the rim and has a number of steep sections and very tight turns. Unfortunately for us our stay coincided with a major winter storm that resulted in a LOT of ice overnight. The road out of the canyon was so bad that the park rangers had to close it to prevent someone from having a catastrophic accident. We were fortunate to climb out of the canyon at 3PM on the afternoon of our check-out day after the sun had a chance to melt some of the ice and make the road passable. I would not recommend descending into the canyon if there's any chance of winter precipitation after our experience.

If you are looking for lots of hiking and mountain biking in the beautiful Texas panhandle.  2nd largest canyon in the U.S.  Great amenities and a well cared for state park.  We spent 5 days there and still didn't get to cover all the trails and sights.  Plan to go back.  We went in April to beat the heat, but it was still pretty warm on the trails, near 90 in the days and high 50's at night.  Next trip will be likely in the fall (October-ish).  All the trails warn to bring water and they mean it!  Lots of wildlife; deer, hogs, numerous birds, reptiles.  Sudden storms can pop up and bring quick winds and rain, so be prepared!  Sites are large, but not isolated from each other (not many trees), so be ready for some openness.  Flat pads with good water and electric.  There are numerous primitive tent sites and some pack-in sites as well.  Park store is run by a 3rd party vendor, so Texas Parks pass doesn't give you discount, but the store is large and has bistro-type eating.

Mesquite Campground 88 

Came to Palo Duro several times as a kid and young adult. Probably almost 20 years since my last visit. Plenty is still the same, but lots of updates, too. Well maintained. 

Currently they are limiting access, so be sure to make sure you have reservations or check that the COVID restrictions are listed. There is a fire ban at this time, too, but propane stoves and grills are allowed. 

We stayed in the Mesquite Camprground. Nice pad sites, each with a picnic table under a roof. Sites also have electricity and water. Restroom and shower facilities. We didn’t have hot water for the shower, but the facility was clean. Our spot was the far end from the restrooms, but it was an easy walk. Sites are well spaced with decent privacy. Spot number 88 was great, with picturesque views. 

Very quiet. Well nature had a symphony going on, but no manmade noise. 

Mesquite campground is on the far end of the park and the drive in is great. Plenty to see and tons of trails. Very dark and we hear the star gazing is remarkable from this campground. Unfortunately for us, the night was partly cloudy and hazy from the western fires. I’ll take the haze over the fires, though, so no complaints and prayers for those really affected by the fires. 

Nice gift shop and interpretive center (bit dated, but its not like the info is outdated). Trading post offeres groceries, gasoline and firewood(when not banned) according to their sign. We didn’t stop. 

No Verizon service in the canyon, but good data at park entrance and free guest wifi near the entrance and visitor center. 

Great experience. Would definitely recommend and will return.

Nestled down in the Canyon are several campgrounds. If you can, I suggest getting a spot in the Mesquite campground. It’s the newest camping area and it’s been thoughtfully designed with plenty of room between you and your neighbors and beautiful scenes. We have found the older camp sites are a bit crowded together and don’t over the same vistas.

The bathrooms are clean and offer showers. Because this park is popular, there can sometimes be a line.

Palo Duro offers lots of hiking, horseback riding, zip lines and bike trails.

It is prone to flash floods. So plan accordingly.

The land scape is gorgeous

Palo Duro Canyon reminds me a lot of Southern Utah with it's mountain biking and hiking trails. It’s a 20 minute drive from Amarillo, Texas.

We did the hike to the Lighthouse and it was a great hike for experienced more experienced hikers. This park is a real gem that deserves more than the one day we spent here.

During this trip, we stayed the night in the park at mesquite campground and it was a great spot. Nice nights stay despite the heat. Dogs are welcome and allowed on all trails with leash.

Myself and 3 friends took a backpacking/camping road trip. We are from Houston to Utah, so Palo Duro was a good halfway point. The views are spectacular, we didn’t have time to do any hiking. All of the hikes don’t seem to be very long, but considering how hot it gets in Texas, maybe this is a good thing. The first camp ground we stayed in was called fortress cliff, I wasn’t super impressed with this camp ground, but don’t be discouraged, because they do have campsites with great views. They were working on the showers during our stay, so we couldn’t shower while we were there. Also we couldn’t find a place to do dishes which was annoying, but that seems to be a hit or miss with a lot of parks. On our way back we stayed in the cow cabins, we were too beat from our trip to set up camp anymore. These historical cabins were sooooo cute with a great view. The amenities were meek at cow cabins, but for $60 bucks split 4 ways it was totally worth it. Note that cow cabin doesn’t have, bathrooms, kitchen, bed linens, it does however have a/c, beds, electricity, small fridge, microwave, table and chairs indoor fire place, outdoor picnic table, outside fire pit/grill ( ask if burn ban is in effect) and outdoor water faucet. We had cabin 4, the ranger told us we had the best cabin out of the cow cabins. We drove past mesquite camp ground and this spot looks super legit, we were very jealous and wished the first night we camped was at this camp ground. Not only are the camp sites more spaced out here, but they are closer to the bathrooms and have great views. The photo is of mesquite camp ground.

I went last summer and the campsites were nice with a covered area, tent site, table, and firepit. However, there was no controlling the noise of nearby campers. Quiet time wasn't enforced and there wasn't a number to call to get someone out there, so there was a group partying loudly until midnight. Made it incredibly difficult to sleep.

We were here last summer and absolutely loved it. In mid June the night temp was around 65 degrees, massive amount of stars. Bathrooms are clean. Hikes are amazing.

Camped overnight in the Mesquite campground on my trip to Oklahoma. It was very windy day on the road and in the canyon. I had reservations and when I arrived they offered camping in Sagebrush or Mesquite. Apparently, they are remodeling the bathrooms in the Mesquite CG which offers better views of the canyon. It wasn't important for me as I was just going to be overnight. Be prepared for 6% steep grade going into the canyon and it seems like the trip into the CG is endless. Also, no cell reception once you are past the first overlook. But, the views are so worth it!! As I said, it was very windy and had a slight rain overnight. The morning was cold and misty coming back up the canyon which made for a interesting viewing of the canyon.

I was only here overnight as I traveled to Oklahoma. I stayed in the Mesquite campground, which is the furthest in the canyon. During my stay the restrooms and showers were not available due to remodeling. I was not concerned because I travel in an RV and was only there for the evening.

However, fair warning..you are visiting the 2nd largest canyon in the US. Be prepared for the wind and 6% downhill grade as you descend into the canyon and the uphill climb coming back. Also, there is no cell reception once you enter the canyon. So, you will need to travel up the hill to the scenic overlook/visitor center to use your phone/computer.