Camping near Hartley, Texas encompasses areas throughout the Texas Panhandle, with options ranging from free primitive sites to developed RV parks. The region's terrain features a unique mix of grasslands and canyon areas, with elevations ranging from 3,300-3,700 feet contributing to significant temperature fluctuations between day and night. Wind conditions create particular challenges for tent campers, especially during spring and fall when gusts regularly exceed 25 mph.
What to do
Horseback riding trails: 15+ miles available at Plum Creek — Lake Meredith National Recreation Area, where equestrian facilities include dedicated corrals. "This place is FREE! It has plenty of trees and miles upon miles of trails. There is definitely water for the horses (courtesy of local Eagle Scouts) and pens as well," notes a visitor. The area features wide-open riding spaces with minimal restrictions.
Fishing access: Multiple shore points at Lake Meredith offer bank fishing without a Texas license (federal waters). "The lake looked nice but it's very flat so not as geologically interesting as our recent stops in Utah and New Mexico," one camper at Sanford-Yake mentioned. Water levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting access points.
Stargazing: Minimal light pollution makes the Hartley region excellent for night sky viewing. "Very dark out here though! Would definitely visit again," reports a McBride Canyon camper. Best viewing occurs during new moon phases, with summer Milky Way clearly visible overhead from May through September.
What campers like
Free camping options: No fees at several sites around Lake Meredith. At Fritch Fortress Campground — Lake Meredith National Recreation Area, campers appreciate the value. "Sure, it's in kind of a strange location. Sure, it's sort of small. But the sites are big, the sunrises are huge, the lake is silent (at least in early Oct.)... And it's free. Only two bathrooms, but they're well lit, well maintained, with flush toilets, and have showers!"
Well-maintained shower facilities: Clean bathrooms with hot water at several Lake Meredith locations. "Paved accessible roadways and free hot shower in the restrooms is a major perk!" notes a Fritch Fortress camper. Most shower facilities close during winter months (November-March).
Covered picnic areas: Protection from sun/elements at multiple sites. A Plum Creek visitor mentioned, "Big fire rings, barbecue, and covered picnic tables." These structures provide essential shade during summer months when temperatures frequently exceed 95°F.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Access roads to McBride Canyon & Mullinaw Creek Camp — Lake Meredith National Recreation Area become progressively rougher. "The road is fairly nice and paved the whole way out until you reach the camp. No big ruts or pot holes. It turns into sand and loose gravel after entering the campground," explains one visitor. Another notes, "Definitely wouldn't recommend driving big RV's past the campsite. Steep unpaved grades."
Seasonal insect issues: Mosquitoes and other insects can be problematic, particularly after rainfall. "My God, the Mosquitos! This is a beautiful park—lovely, with rugged rocky hills. However I've never seen mosquitos this bad before. Ever!" warns a McBride Canyon camper. Wasps become more aggressive during late summer months.
Limited cell service: Coverage varies widely across camping areas. One Rita Blanca Lake visitor noted, "Reception sucks. We got one bar where we stayed but towards where people are living out here, it's a little better." Signal strength is generally better at higher elevation sites.
Tips for camping with families
Playground availability: Multiple options for children at Texhoma Park Campground in Dumas. "The playground seemed generous in size for families & very shady," notes one visitor. Another mentions, "They do have a separate dog park and a playground for kids." Playground equipment is basic but functional.
Noise considerations: Train proximity affects some camping areas. A Texhoma Park camper warns, "Though it was a nicely maintained and welcoming park, if you are tent camping, plan on sleeping with earplugs or earbuds as it is right next to a railroad and you will hear trains honking every couple of hours."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Early mornings offer best chances for spotting local wildlife. "Wildlife and traffic are heavy due to it being hunting season. But the traffic wasn't a bother. Usually early in the morning and late at night," reports a McBride Canyon visitor. Common sightings include deer, rabbits, and various bird species.
Tips from RVers
Overnight convenience stops: Easy highway access at Corral RV Park (Dalhart) provides quick setup for travelers. "Just passing thru on trip to Nebraska. arrived early evening, the parking area is really well kept and the gravel parts are 95% level, we didn't need to do any additional leveling," reports one RVer. Sites are designed for efficient entry and exit.
Free electrical hookups available: Texhoma Park in Dumas offers no-cost power connections. "Thank you Dumas, Texas for the fine overnight RV parking. Did I say free?!? Electric hookups, place to fill with water and dump, and easy access," shares an appreciative camper. Another confirms, "Has electric hookups, potable water, dump station and a play ground all free. One night only stay limit but it's an easy in and out."
Site spacing considerations: Some RV parks have limited separation between units. "If you like being shoved into a campsite like a bunch of sardines, this is the park for you. There was little room between RVs, which is something our family just doesn't like," notes one Corral RV Park visitor. When possible, request end sites for more privacy.
