Tent camping near Amarillo, Texas offers primitive and established options within the Texas Panhandle's high plains environment, situated at elevations around 3,600 feet. The region experiences significant temperature swings between seasons, with winter lows dropping below freezing and summer temperatures frequently reaching triple digits. Wind conditions remain a consistent factor year-round across the flat terrain, occasionally gusting over 30 mph.
What to do
Hiking at Buffalo Lake NWR: The refuge provides walking trails through grassland habitat despite its dry lakebed. "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," notes Kelsey L. about Buffalo Lake National Wildlife Refuge.
Wildlife observation: Early mornings and evenings offer prime wildlife viewing opportunities. "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," describes Toby at Buffalo Lake NWR.
Stargazing: The remote locations away from city lights create excellent night sky viewing. "A wonderful campground with access to trails and lovely stargazing," mentions Kate S. about Fortress Cliff at Palo Duro Canyon.
What campers like
Canyon floor camping: The dramatic position within Palo Duro Canyon provides unique geological surroundings. "What a surprise this place is! The land around Amarillo is flat as a pancake. But head a few miles south and Palo Duro Canyon opens up vistas that rival the Grand Canyon in Arizona," shares Alex M. about Fortress Cliff Primitive.
Site spacing and layout: Campers appreciate the thoughtful arrangement of sites. "The spaces are of generous size. I could have easily pitched four or five more tents. The ground is great for driving stakes, too. They go in easy but they hold fast," continues Alex about Fortress Cliff.
Solitude at McBride Canyon: The remote location offers a peaceful tent camping experience. "This is the perfect place for quiet, secluded tent camping. The sites were spread apart a nice distance, each with a picnic table. The best part of this campground is the quiet. We were the only ones at the campground the weekend of our visit," explains Kate W. about McBride Canyon.
What you should know
Bathroom facilities vary significantly: Some campgrounds have limited toilet options. "There are a couple of holes dug in the ground with a toilet sitting on top. I used it and noticed it was to the top by the rim of the seat full of human waste," warns Daisee Mae S. about McBride Canyon.
Weather extremes: Summer heat requires preparation. "Aside from the heat (about 104 °F when I arrived in June), the main downside here is the flies. They bite. Through clothing. Hard to stay in one place very long when the flies are after you," cautions Alex M. about camping at Fortress Cliff.
Road conditions: Access roads to some campsites can be challenging. "The road into the campground does deteriorate the further in you go. It is also VERY dusty," warns N I. about Mullinaw Creek.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection matters: Choose sites with shade and view considerations. "Positives: Beautiful site and large! We were on the outer loop and had awesome views of the canyon walls. Wildlife at camp - saw roadrunner and heard coyotes at night (eerie but also magical)!" recommends Sonora J. about Fortress Cliff.
Bug protection essential: Insects can be problematic, particularly in warmer months. "We were specifically at the Lower Plumb area. Well maintained area with bathrooms, trash, and picnic tables. Beware of the massive number of insects, especially the wasps. They actually bit my dog," warns Brittany M. about Lower Plumb.
Consider seasonal timing: Spring and fall offer more moderate temperatures. "Great fun, so pretty, awesome hiking and biking, pet friendly. We stayed 3 days in late February weather was amazing," shares Robert M. about Palo Duro Canyon.
Tips from RVers
Road access considerations: The canyon access requires careful navigation. "Make sure to be careful taking the hairpin road down to the campground at night!" advises Andrew R. about Palo Duro Canyon State Park.
Campsite amenities: Most developed sites include covered areas for shade protection. "Each site has a paved picnic table space with an awning - very important here. It gets hot and the sun is relentless," notes Alex M. about Fortress Cliff.
Site positioning: Site selection impacts the quality of your stay. "FORTRESS CLIFF Rating: 3.5 as not a lot of visual privacy from adjacent sites. However the view of cliffs is very clear. Sites: my favorites: 49,47, 45,43, 41* 37(close to the park Road, but on the outside perimeter of the loop)," advises Roger W.
