The Texas Panhandle camping experience near McClellan Creek National Grassland combines high plains terrain with deep canyon landscapes. The area sits at approximately 3,200 feet elevation with dramatic temperature variations between seasons and day-to-night shifts of up to 40 degrees. Several campgrounds provide strategic locations for accessing both the canyon systems and the rolling grassland prairies.
What to do
Horseback riding trails: Equestrian Campground at Palo Duro Canyon State Park offers dedicated facilities for equestrians with water available for horses. "A nice looking equestrian area with water available for horses," notes Roger W., who visited the campground and found it "secluded" with campsites that aren't clearly defined.
Off-road adventures: MERUS Adventure hosts off-road trails ranging from beginner to advanced levels in the canyon. "I even took my GMC 2500 HD off roading which I had never done before. What an experience even though I couldn't get off the beginners trails," shares Dennis S., who stayed at MERUS Adventure.
Canyon hiking: The dramatic terrain provides numerous hiking options through colored rock formations. "Every hike is worth it. Every vista every viewpoint.. incredible. Lots of mountain bikers and a few horse riders," according to Amy & Stu B., who enjoyed the trail access at Hackberry Campground.
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: The area offers many private camping options away from crowds. "Incredibly secluded and serene with amazing views of Palo Duro. Campground is well kept," writes Natalia W. about her last-minute booking at MERUS Adventure™.
Night sky viewing: The clear Texas nights provide exceptional stargazing opportunities. "There were sooo many stars. People were turning their lights off and just looking at the starts. Very pretty. Especially when the coyotes starting talking back and forth," mentions Ben J. about his Hackberry Campground experience.
Wildlife encounters: Many campers report seeing native animals during their stays. "We saw several deer in the park and a couple of turkeys running down the road," reports Helen P. about her camping experience at Hackberry, noting that the RV spots were "well spaced and many trees."
What you should know
Site spacing varies: Some campgrounds place RVs close together while others offer more privacy. "The sites in Hackberry are difficult for newer people to back into, with narrow roads and angled sites with trees and bollards aplenty," warns Jackie R. about Hackberry Campground.
Water quality issues: Some campers report high chlorine content in the water supply. "Literally only minus was that the water was really chlorine-y. But hey, I'll take any potable water over no hookup!" mentions Amy & Stu B. about their Hackberry Campground stay.
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies throughout the canyon areas. "No Verizon coverage, but Sprint could text only," reports Ben J., while Amy & Stu B. note "ATT was spotty but kind of worked-Verizon was nonexistent" at Hackberry Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: For families with children, Amarillo KOA offers recreational facilities. "The hay rides were fun. There a pool, laundry facilities and little store. Also a clubhouse with WiFi," mentions Elizabeth C. about her experience at Amarillo KOA.
Educational wildlife viewing: Wildlife sightings can become teaching moments. "You might encounter native wildlife like roadrunners, wild turkeys, and even deer, which adds to the natural charm," notes Morris P. about the family-friendly atmosphere at Hackberry Campground.
Weather preparation: The canyon area experiences sudden temperature changes and storms. "Thunderstorm with lightning show while there. Site backed up against river with nice trail," reports Mark M., highlighting the importance of weather-ready camping gear at Hackberry Campground.
Tips from RVers
Canyon access considerations: Large rigs face challenges on canyon roads. "Hairpin turns and 10% grade going in and out of the campground area. Long rigs could really have issues," warns Ben J. about the Equestrian Campground access road.
Hookup availability: RV sites range from primitive to full-service. "We had a pull through spot. This is a big campground, but decent enough space between units," shares Rod A. about his stay at Amarillo KOA, noting the campground has "bathrooms were clean and spacious."
Seasonal booking strategies: Glamping near McClellan Creek National Grassland requires advance planning. "If you're looking for a true overlanding experience, this is one of very few places in Texas where you can get away from the crowds," explains Matt S. about MERUS Adventure, adding that "you'll need to be a member, or a guest of a member, to enter."
