Lake Meredith National Recreation Area sits at an elevation of 2,875 feet in the Texas Panhandle where summer temperatures often exceed 100°F. The reservoir was formed by Sanford Dam on the Canadian River and serves as a critical water source for surrounding communities. During peak season from May to September, overnight temperatures can drop to 60°F even when daytime highs reach the upper 90s.
What to Do
Playground access for kids: Texhoma Park Campground in Dumas offers a generous playground area with shade. "The playground seemed generous in size for families & very shady. The water spigot is easily accessed," notes Michele A. This free overnight facility provides a welcome stop for families traveling through the area.
Hiking the Juniper Trail: Juniper Campground at Palo Duro Canyon State Park connects directly to the Juniper Trail with cave access. "Great access to the Juniper trail with the cave— definitely worth checking out," mentions Olivia R., though she warns of "relentless biting flies" during summer visits.
Animal viewing opportunities: Route 66 RV Ranch includes a small petting zoo along with its dog park. "Also has a small petting zoo, dog park. Discounts for military, first responders, active or retired," notes Tina B. The campground is conveniently located off I-40 for easy access during travels.
What Campers Like
Free overnight options: Texhoma Park Campground offers no-cost camping with utilities included. "Very nice open parking area with 9 poles each have 2 receptical boxes for a total of 18. Boxes all have 20, 30 and 50 amp receptacles. Nice stop on my way to Colorado," explains Overland 1., who encourages donations to maintain the free service.
Indoor pools for relief from heat: Big Texan RV Ranch provides an indoor pool and adults-only hot tub. "Good Sam Campground, Full hookup (sewer, water, 50 AMP) Huge pull thru site, Level site, Picnic table on-site, Playground, Indoor Pool, Hot tub (adults only), Friendly staff," Beth R. lists among the amenities.
Level, paved sites: Many rv campgrounds near Lake Meredith National Recreation Area feature level concrete pads. "The site was HUGE and flat and paved in concrete," reports Jackie R. about Amarillo RV Resort. Sites throughout the region typically feature concrete or blacktop surfaces rather than gravel.
What You Should Know
Train noise considerations: Be prepared for railroad noise at some campgrounds. "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," advises Preston G. about Texhoma Park.
Weather and terrain challenges: The Texas Panhandle experiences extreme heat and persistent winds. "It's so windy here we weren't even able to go outside," mentions Jil S. during her stay at Amarillo RV Resort. Summer visitors should plan for daytime temperatures above 100°F.
Security measures in place: Amarillo RV Resort maintains surveillance systems throughout the property. "The grounds are well kept and very clean... it's so windy here we weren't even able to go outside," notes Jil S. The security measures are standard at most rv campgrounds around Lake Meredith.
Tips for Camping with Families
Recreational amenities: Many rv campgrounds near Lake Meredith offer play areas for children. "Great place for families. My kids LOVED the bounce pad," shares Acacia C. about Big Texan RV Ranch, highlighting specialized play equipment beyond standard playgrounds.
Bathroom accessibility: Request sites near facilities when traveling with children. "We asked for a spot near the restrooms and she gave us the spot that is closest to it," mentions katy B. about her experience at Fort Amarillo RV Resort.
Water activities: Despite the arid climate, some campgrounds maintain water features. "This is a nice RV Resort. It's clean, well maintained, has friendly staff, a nice park area with water features, an indoor pool, playground, dog walk," explains Beth C. about Fort Amarillo RV Resort.
Tips from RVers
Arrival timing matters: Popular rv campgrounds Lake Meredith area fill quickly, particularly free sites. "This place fills up so it's suggested you get there earlier in the day if possible. We arrived at 7:45 pm on a Saturday and got the last spot," advises an RVer about Texhoma Park Campground.
Dog-friendly facilities: Route 66 RV Ranch offers multiple pet areas. "There's even a grassy area for the fur babies & kiddos to run & play, includes a small play set for the kiddos," shares Amy C., noting the campground's dual-purpose outdoor spaces that accommodate both children and pets.
After-hours check-in procedures: Many rv campgrounds Lake Meredith area offer streamlined late arrivals. "We were driving our new RV from Alvarado, TX to Albuquerque, NM and stopped in Amarillo for the night. They had called me mid-afternoon to confirm we were coming and gave us instructions for after-hours check-in," explains Reuben about Big Texan RV Ranch.
