Amarillo and Canyon sit at roughly 3,500 feet elevation on the Texas Panhandle, creating distinct weather patterns that affect camping conditions. Summer temperatures in RV parks around Canyon, Texas regularly exceed 90°F, while winter nights can dip below freezing. The region experiences significant wind throughout the year, particularly in spring when gusts over 30 mph are common.
What to do
Hike the canyon trails: Palo Duro Canyon offers numerous hiking opportunities with varied difficulty levels. At Juniper Campground — Palo Duro Canyon State Park, visitors can access the Juniper trail with its cave formations. "Great access to the Juniper trail with the cave— definitely worth checking out," reports one camper who visited in July.
Explore the area's history: Canyon is home to several historical sites and museums. "We were able to go to a great steakhouse, grocery store and church the next morning all within 10-15 minutes from the campground," notes a visitor who stayed at Oasis Amarillo Resort. The Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum in Canyon showcases regional history and is located approximately 15 minutes from most RV parks.
Visit Cadillac Ranch: This iconic art installation is easily accessible from several RV campgrounds. "It's also only a very short ride to the Cadillac Ranch," mentions one reviewer who stayed at Fort Amarillo RV Resort. The outdoor art exhibit features ten graffiti-covered Cadillacs partially buried in the ground and is free to visit.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Travelers consistently mention the cleanliness of bathrooms and showers at The Silos at Canyon RV Park. "The bathrooms were super clean and nice and the other amenities were great," writes one visitor. This park is located near Canyon Lake and offers full hookup sites with water, electric, and sewer.
Family amenities: Many RV parks in the area provide features specifically for families. "My kids LOVED the bounce pad," shares a visitor at Big Texan RV Ranch. Other reviewers noted the indoor pool, playground, and three separate dog parks at this facility.
Entertainment options: Several campgrounds offer unique entertainment experiences. "Call them and they will send a limo over to the RV park to transport you!" explains a camper describing the free transportation service from Big Texan RV Ranch to The Big Texan Steak Ranch restaurant, a popular regional attraction.
What you should know
Temperature extremes: The canyon floor experiences dramatic temperature variations. "It was about 105 when I got in at 5pm in July (to be expected), but cooled down some overnight with a bit of rain," reports a camper who stayed at Juniper Campground. The temperature difference between the canyon rim and floor can exceed 20 degrees.
Wildlife encounters: Local wildlife may appear in camping areas. "Saw a baby scorpion in the bathroom sink," mentions one Juniper Campground visitor, while another noted, "Wildlife was cool too, complete with friendly Road runners and Terrantula Spiders!"
Wind conditions: The flat topography around Route 66 RV Ranch means wind is a constant factor. "This part of Texas is very windy though so just be aware," advises one camper. Wind can affect tent stability and create dusty conditions, particularly during spring months.
Tips for camping with families
Indoor activities for hot days: Several campgrounds offer indoor options when temperatures soar. "Great indoor pool with sauna and hot tub," notes a visitor to Big Texan RV Ranch, making it suitable for families seeking midday heat relief.
Animal encounters: Some campgrounds feature small petting areas. "Also has a small petting zoo, dog park," writes a visitor at Route 66 RV Ranch. These features provide entertainment options for younger campers between hiking or sightseeing activities.
Bug protection: Insect activity varies by season. "Biggest downside besides the heat was the relentless biting flies," reports a summer visitor to Juniper Campground. Bringing insect repellent is essential, especially during warmer months when flies and mosquitoes are active.
Tips from RVers
Level sites: RV campers consistently mention the quality of parking pads. "Sites are large FHU, pull-through," notes a visitor to Oasis Amarillo Resort. Another camper adds, "The site was HUGE and flat and paved in concrete," making it suitable for larger motorhomes.
Security features: Several campgrounds offer enhanced security measures. "Bathroom facility and showers were very clean, private, secured with required passcode and an easy walk from any site," reports a visitor to Route 66 RV Ranch. These security features provide peace of mind for travelers storing equipment outside.
Advance planning: RV campgrounds near Canyon fill quickly during peak seasons. "We arrived a little after 7, so they had called me mid-afternoon to confirm we were coming and gave us instructions for after-hours check-in," explains a visitor to Big Texan RV Ranch. Most campgrounds offer online reservation systems or phone booking.
