Lake Meredith National Recreation Area offers free primitive camping in several designated areas around the reservoir. Located in the Texas Panhandle at approximately 2,800 feet elevation, the recreation area experiences constant winds due to its position in an open, arid landscape. Seasonal temperature fluctuations are extreme, with summer highs regularly exceeding 90°F and winter nights dropping below freezing.
What to do
Hiking the canyon trails: McBride Canyon & Mullinaw Creek Camp features an expanded trail system open for hiking, biking and horseback riding. "This trail system is open to hiking, biking, and horseback riding. NO OFF ROAD VEHICLES ALLOWED," notes reviewer N I. at McBride Canyon & Mullinaw Creek Camp.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The campground areas provide habitats for diverse Texas Panhandle 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 Daisee Mae S.
Stargazing in remote locations: The minimal light pollution creates exceptional night sky viewing. "Far enough out from the city. Free! Very dark out here though!" shares Brody Q., highlighting the excellent stargazing conditions.
What campers like
Affordable camping options: All dispersed camping sites around Lake Meredith are free with a 14-day limit. Roger J. at Lower Plum Creek Campground confirms this policy: "Free 14 day limit. This is a horse friendly park. Open area with not many trees. One of thirteen primitive camping areas in the Lake Meredith National Recreation Area."
Scenic landscape views: Despite the flat surrounding terrain, the lake provides visual interest. "The views overlooking the lake are absolutely incredible. Someone in decent condition could probably make their way down the steep hillside to the water," notes Karla L. at Fritch Fortress Campground.
Seclusion and privacy: Several camping areas offer quiet, uncrowded experiences. "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," shares Kate W.
What you should know
Seasonal facility closures: Bathroom facilities close during colder months at some locations. "Bathhouse will open back up in March. Also, there is another at Sanford Yake camp just down the road a bit that is open year round and the dump station is open year round," explains Karla L.
Challenging road conditions: Access roads to many camping areas deteriorate significantly. "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," notes Daisee Mae S.
Persistent insect issues: Beyond mosquitoes, other insects create challenges for campers. "Beware of the massive number of insects, especially the wasps. They actually bit my dog. Keep in mind that you are at the bottom of a dried up lake if you are there in the summer. That's why there are so many bugs," warns Brittany M. at McBride Canyon & Mullinaw Creek Camp.
Limited vehicle clearance requirements: Some camping areas require vehicles with adequate ground clearance. "You might want to have a bit of clearance on your vehicle," advises N I. at Chimney Hollow, which features "a very open area that is more like a pasture than dispersed camping."
Tips for camping with families
Campsite amenities for children: Some areas offer developed facilities better suited for family camping. "The spots are a good distance apart but there's no trees or anything offering privacy. The bathrooms have jail like showers, but I didn't use them so I'm not sure what they're like," notes Anne W.
Safety considerations: Camping areas have regular ranger patrols for security. "I stopped at fritch fortress campground on my way to colorado. Nice clean spot with tables, bathrooms, showers, water. There was a lot of people and rangers driving by every so often so I felt very safe," reports Amy C.
Weather preparation: Wind conditions make proper gear and tent setup essential for families. "Beautiful views from most sites. We found a pull in for our 31' trailer and pick up. Wind rocked us all night, but part of the adventure," shares Kathy S.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: Many camping areas have limitations for RV access. "Definitely wouldn't recommend driving big RV's past the campsite. Steep unpaved grades. I didn't travel too far down though," cautions Brody Q.
Solar power advantages: The open landscape with minimal tree coverage benefits solar setups. "Open area with not many trees. The Texas sun worked great on my solar and my sunburn," notes Roger J. at Lower Plum Creek Campground.
Wind precautions: The constant wind requires special consideration for RV parking and setup. "It is a good place to stay if you're staying in a vehicle. But it's Very windy. I would not want to try to wrestle a tent here. The night i stayed the wind was 23mph plus gusts. It rocked the van all night," warns Brittney C.
