Best Campgrounds near Amarillo, TX
Campgrounds near Amarillo, Texas range from full-service RV parks to primitive sites in nearby Palo Duro Canyon State Park, often called the "Grand Canyon of Texas." Established facilities include Amarillo KOA, Big Texan RV Ranch, and Oasis Amarillo Resort, which primarily serve travelers along the I-40 corridor with tent camping, RV hookups, and cabin rentals. The most scenic camping options lie approximately 25 miles south in Palo Duro Canyon, where Hackberry, Juniper, Sagebrush, and Mesquite campgrounds provide access to dramatic red rock formations and extensive trail systems.
Extreme temperature variations characterize the camping experience in this region of the Texas Panhandle. Summer highs regularly exceed 100°F in the canyon areas, while winter nights can drop well below freezing. Most developed campgrounds remain open year-round, though primitive sites may have seasonal restrictions. Water availability is limited at many locations, particularly in Palo Duro Canyon where campers should arrive with adequate supplies. Reservations are strongly recommended for all state park campgrounds, especially during spring and fall when moderate temperatures attract the most visitors. Several campgrounds offer electric hookups but may lack sewer connections, requiring use of dump stations. A visitor noted, "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."
The canyon environment provides the region's most memorable camping experiences, with dramatic landscapes that contrast sharply with Amarillo's flat surroundings. Palo Duro Canyon State Park receives consistently positive reviews for its hiking and mountain biking trails, wildlife viewing opportunities, and striking geological features. Campgrounds within the canyon offer varying levels of shade and proximity to trails. Sites at higher elevations generally offer better views but less protection from winds. RV parks closer to Amarillo provide more amenities but less natural scenery, making them better suited for overnight stays rather than extended visits. One camper described the experience as "an oasis in desolate west Texas" with "amazing views and world-class hiking and mountain biking." Many visitors recommend combining stays at both canyon and city locations to experience the full range of what the Amarillo area offers.
