Palo Duro Canyon State Park sits 25 miles southeast of Amarillo with an elevation drop of 800 feet from the rim to the canyon floor. The canyon spans 120 miles long with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 100°F while winter nights often drop below freezing. Camping areas near Canyon offer sites for both rugged tent camping and RV accommodation, with dog friendly options available throughout the region.
What to Do
Horseback riding excursions: Explore the canyon the way early settlers did at Fortress Cliff Primitive — Palo Duro Canyon State Park where trails accommodate equestrians. "Great fun, so pretty, awesome hiking and biking, pet friendly. We stayed 3 days in late February weather was amazing," notes Robert M. in his review.
Stargazing sessions: The clear Texas Panhandle skies provide exceptional night sky viewing with minimal light pollution. "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," reports Ben J. from Hackberry Campground.
Wildlife observation: Keep cameras ready for chance encounters with native species. "Wildlife at camp - saw roadrunner and heard coyotes at night (eerie but also magical)!" writes Sonora J. about her stay at Fortress Cliff. Morning hours offer the best viewing opportunities for turkey, deer, and roadrunners.
What Campers Like
Clean shower facilities: Hackberry Campground — Palo Duro Canyon State Park receives consistent praise for maintenance. "Bathrooms and showers are kept clean!" confirms Cindy K., while another camper noted the "endless hot water to clean up from the dusty trail hikes."
Level, spacious sites: The terrain at Mesquite Campground — Palo Duro Canyon State Park provides comfortable setup areas. "Our site was plenty long enough for our 35ft rv and truck. We saw several big 5th wheels in the same loop," reports Texas Roving Ranger, highlighting the accommodation for larger vehicles.
Canyon views from campsites: Almost every spot offers scenic vistas. "Every site has a view of beautiful geology surrounding the campground. I would say this is the best campground in the park," writes Roger W. about Mesquite Campground, noting the panoramic surroundings visible from most sites.
What You Should Know
Temperature fluctuations: Be prepared for dramatic weather changes. "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," recalls Marianne M. from Mesquite Campground.
Biting insects: Juniper Campground — Palo Duro Canyon State Park visitors report persistent flies during warmer months. "Biggest downside besides the heat was the relentless biting flies," warns Olivia R., noting they can bite "through clothing" according to another reviewer.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies throughout the canyon. "There is NO service whatsoever! We are full time RV'ers who depend on internet/wifi to work," notes Sadie B. about Mesquite Campground, though other campers report "TMobile 5G service was strong" in certain areas.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Big Texan RV Ranch offers family-friendly amenities outside the state park. "Just passing through for a night but such a great place for families. My kids LOVED the bounce pad," shares Acacia C., highlighting one of the entertainment options for younger campers.
Indoor pool options: When temperatures soar, consider campgrounds with swimming facilities. "Great indoor pool with sauna and hot tub. Fenced areas for three separate dog parks," mentions Tom S. about Big Texan RV Ranch, providing recreation regardless of weather.
Pet-specific considerations: Most dog friendly campgrounds near Canyon have designated exercise areas. "Small fenced pet run with larger pet area next to it for leashed dogs," notes Cody D. about Oasis Amarillo Resort, adding value for those traveling with four-legged companions.
Tips from RVers
Extra water storage: Oasis Amarillo Resort provides full hookups but desert conditions demand additional reserves. "Very level sites with full hookups. Apparently there is a game room, laundry, pool, dog run, gym, store, and spa," shares Jil S., noting the comprehensive amenities available.
Hairpin turn navigation: The road into Palo Duro Canyon requires careful driving for larger rigs. "Be careful taking the hairpin road down to the campground at night!" warns Andrew R. about Fortress Cliff, while others mention the "steep grade of 10% to enter the park itself."
Winter preparation: For cold-weather camping, insulation is critical. "Our RV water froze up twice in the five days we were here but we kind of expected it..., it is January," shares Jeff R. from Sagebrush Campground, highlighting the need for winterization during colder months.
