Amarillo camping areas feature flat terrain at approximately 3,600 feet elevation, creating conditions prone to strong winds and temperature fluctuations throughout the year. Summer high temperatures regularly exceed 90°F while winter nights often drop below freezing. Camping locations range from canyon-bottom sites with geological features to prairie settings with expansive views of the Texas Panhandle.
What to do
Hiking at Palo Duro Canyon: Several campgrounds connect to canyon trail systems measuring over 30 miles in total length. "The rock formations are just wonderful, and if you are a photographer, you will love this park," notes a visitor at Juniper Campground. The Lighthouse Trail is particularly popular but requires preparation as one camper warns: "You MUST do the lighthouse trail but beware take lots of water even in February it's longer than you think. And a little tricky at the end!"
Musical entertainment: The outdoor TEXAS musical drama runs during summer months at Palo Duro Canyon's amphitheater. "One night we drive out to Palo Duro Park to see the musical Texas! Lots of fun!" reports a camper from Big Texan RV Ranch. Performances typically run Tuesday through Sunday evenings from June through August with tickets starting at $20.
Wildlife viewing: Morning and evening hours offer optimal wildlife spotting opportunities. "Saw wild turkey and a fox. I recommend going in spring. Not too hot and flowers are in bloom," writes a camper at Sagebrush Campground. Early risers at Palo Duro campgrounds often report seeing roadrunners, deer, and wild turkeys moving through campsites.
What campers like
Stargazing opportunities: The relative isolation of canyon campgrounds provides excellent night sky viewing. "There were sooo many stars. People were turning their lights off and just looking at the starts. Very pretty. Especially when the coyotes starting talking back and forth," notes a camper at Hackberry Campground. Clear, dark skies are most reliable during new moon phases.
Proximity to attractions: "Just passing through, I wanted a good steak and a rest, we got both. Very convenient easy off and on to 40," explains a reviewer at Big Texan RV Ranch. Most dog friendly campgrounds near Amarillo provide convenient access to both Route 66 landmarks and interstate highways.
Campsite spacing: Fort Amarillo RV Resort earns praise for its layout. "Sites have concrete areas with picnic tables. Sites are large FHU, pull-through," observes a visitor. Campers frequently mention appreciating the privacy between sites at this and several other Amarillo area campgrounds compared to typical highway-side RV parks.
What you should know
Limited tree cover: Most Amarillo area campgrounds feature minimal natural shade. "Limited shade, gravel" notes a camper at Big Texan RV Ranch, while another points out the regional geography: "Amarillo is flat flat flat with few trees so it isn't very picturesque." Campers should bring portable shelters during summer months.
Weather considerations: High winds can create challenging camping conditions. "The wind picked up at night and nearly blew a few of our tents away. Some people couldn't sleep in their tents any longer and moved to our group van," reports a Sagebrush Campground visitor. Weather changes occur rapidly, especially during spring and fall.
Reservation requirements: Palo Duro Canyon State Park campgrounds regularly fill completely during peak seasons. "Make sure and get reservations during the peak time," advises a camper. Weekend reservations should be made at least 1-2 months in advance during spring and fall, and 3-4 months ahead for holiday weekends.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: "Just passing through for a night but such a great place for families. My kids LOVED the bounce pad," writes a visitor at Big Texan RV Ranch. Several Amarillo area campgrounds offer swimming pools, with most operating seasonally from late May through early September depending on weather.
Playground access: "The hay rides were fun. There a pool, laundry facilities and little store. Also a clubhouse with WiFi," notes a camper at Amarillo KOA. Kid-friendly campgrounds often include playground equipment, though availability varies significantly between primitive and developed camping areas.
Educational opportunities: Junior Ranger programs operate at Palo Duro Canyon State Park with activity booklets available at visitor centers. "We were greeted with Texan big hospitality, offered a free ride to a steak restaurant and escorted to our site. They even offer free coffee and bagels in the morning and free cowboy boot pins!" reports a family staying at Big Texan RV Ranch.
Tips from RVers
Access considerations: "The drive down to the campsites has lots of switchbacks, but we have successfully navigated it with our RV in tow. Hairpin turns and 10% grade going in and out of the campground area. Long rigs could really have issues," cautions a visitor to Hackberry Campground. RVs exceeding 35 feet should carefully research campground access routes.
Pet amenities: Dog friendly campgrounds near Amarillo typically offer designated exercise areas. "Fenced areas for three separate dog parks. Good level sites," notes a visitor at Big Texan RV Ranch. Many campgrounds require vaccination records for pets staying overnight.
Highway proximity: Noise levels vary significantly between campgrounds. "It's noisy and bright, since it is literally next door to a large truck stop," reports a camper at Overnite RV Park, while another mentions "Slight highway noise is my only negative comment" when discussing Big Texan RV Ranch. Sites further from the interstate generally provide quieter overnight stays.
