Tent campsites near Childress, Texas primarily cluster around Caprock Canyons State Park, located about 60 miles southwest. The park sits at elevations ranging from 2,000 to 3,200 feet, creating dramatic temperature variations between canyon floors and ridgetops. Primitive campsites often require walks of 60-150 feet from parking areas, with specific sites offering varying levels of shade and proximity to water sources.
What to do
Hike the Upper South Prong trail: The trail to Fern Cave offers moderate difficulty with significant rewards. "We hiked the South Prong trailhead and cut across the Haynes Ridge cutout, and it was amazing. It's a 7 mile loop with an elevation of around 3000 feet. It's a good 3.5-4.5 hour hike, but the views are amazing," notes a visitor at South Prong Primitive Camping Area.
Wildlife observation: Beyond the bison herd, the park hosts diverse wildlife. According to a camper at Little Red Tent Camping Area, "All sorts of wildlife roam free across the entire park, and this area is no exception. It is surreal and awe inspiring to watch the Bison wander through the sites in this area as they migrate through the park, and I also observed deer and a coyote during my stay."
Water activities: Lake Theo provides alternatives to hiking. "The campsites are a short walk from a swimming hole and fishing area. There are often paddleboats and boards lolling around the no-wake lake," reports a frequent visitor to Lake Theo Tent Camping Area.
What campers like
Canyon views: The elevation changes create striking vantages throughout the park. "I'd recommend south prong primitive sites. Got to sleep right at the base of the canyon and there was plenty of space between the campsites," shares a camper who enjoyed the South Prong Tent Camping Area.
Relative solitude: Many sites offer separation from neighboring campers. A Little Red visitor noted, "Campsite can't be seen from the road. There is one neighboring campsite that would have changed my experience had it been occupied. But since it wasn't, it was a very peaceful and quiet campout."
Night sky viewing: Limited light pollution creates excellent stargazing conditions. One camper at Lake Theo Tent Camping Area described, "Red canyons, sunsets, bison, amber fields. Park road is pretty linear, lots of trails and camping options. I forget the exact site we camped but all the choices were lovely. Was nice and empty, excluding all the critters."
What you should know
Temperature extremes: Summer heat can be severe, particularly at lower elevations. "Some tent sites do not have water and it's very hot, so bring tons of water in a cooler," warns a Lake Theo camper. Another adds, "I have stayed in the Lake Theo Tent Camping Area several times - ranging from 110° days in May through perfect 75° days in July."
Wildlife encounters: Bison and other animals regularly approach campsites. "The racoons will get your trash/food if they are able to get to it, even if you are in your campsite. They do not care," reports a Little Red Tent Camping Area visitor.
Trail navigation challenges: Some hiking routes lack clear markings. "My only problem was that some of the trails were not very well marked. It took us a while to find the right trail heads and even longer to find some of the more scenic sites (You'll walk right over the natural bridge without realizing it!)," notes a South Prong camper.
Tips for camping with families
Best timing: Shoulder seasons offer more comfortable conditions. "I went to Caprock Canyons state park during December and almost had the park to myself. It is a wonderful park offering great hiking and camping as well as lots of wildlife to view," shares a Little Red camper.
Choose shaded sites: Tree cover significantly impacts comfort. "Shaded sites go quickly, so be sure to spend extra time studying the map," advises a Lake Theo regular who camps with family.
Pack extra water: Dehydration risks increase with activity level. A visitor to South Prong Primitive Camping Area emphasizes, "The park rangers are really on it. they keep track of everyone on the trail and make sure you've got enough water."
Tips from RVers
Plan for hot weather: RV sites have fewer shade options than tent areas. "Best to camp here in the fall and even winter. I try to shoot for day lights savings weekends. Then it's not too hot or cold but it can be brutal in the summer," advises an experienced South Prong camper.
Consider site locations carefully: Some campgrounds offer better access to amenities. "I stayed at the South Prong primitive tent camping area (primitive but not hike in)," notes one visitor, highlighting the distinction between walk-in and drive-up sites available for larger vehicles.
