Lake Mackenzie Park near Plainview serves as a primary camping destination, situated at an elevation of 3,000 feet in the Texas Panhandle. The area features a semi-arid climate with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and winter lows dropping below freezing. Camping options include tent sites with fire rings overlooking water features and RV spaces with hookups on level gravel pads.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Caprock Canyons State Park hosts a free-roaming bison herd descended from the original southern plains bison. "The park is full of wild bison, creating an experience as unique as I have seen. Be warned that they are in the roads and come in and near the campsites. When I left for a hike, I came back and found bison poop on my campsite!" notes Scott B. about Wild Horse Equestrian Area.
Multi-day hiking trails: The canyon landscape provides varied terrain options with interconnected trail systems. At South Prong Primitive Camping Area, Chris H. reports: "I went with a couple buddies this past weekend (1/18-1/20) and had an absolute blast. We stayed in the south prong tent campsite (primitive but not hike in). Saturday 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."
Off-highway vehicle recreation: For those seeking motorized activities, Matt S. notes about Lake Mackenzie: "There are also some pretty popular dirt trails for moto cross and 4 wheelers and the like." These designated trails provide legal riding areas away from sensitive ecological zones.
What campers like
Budget-friendly overnight options: Wayne Russell RV Park stands out for its affordability. "Free for 2 nights and then there is a fee. It was windy and stormy when we stayed so there was a little mud, especially near the hook ups, but the site was a mix of gravel and dirt so it was manageable," explains Julia M. about this cost-effective option.
Spacious sites with privacy: Many dog friendly campgrounds near Plainview offer adequate spacing between sites. At Lubbock RV Park, Dale D. appreciates that "The park has lots of greenery, level sites and a great dog park. Full hook ups were nicely placed, and we were conveniently placed near the dog park."
Renovated facilities: Several campgrounds have updated their amenities recently. Stephen D. mentions about Lake Mackenzie Park: "Only one shower house but it has been recently renovated. The nice thing about this campground is the ability to swim at the lake down by the beach. Not a stellar beach but with 100 weather, it was sure nice to cool off."
What you should know
Weather preparedness: The Texas Panhandle experiences extreme temperature variations and strong winds. At Honey Flat Camping Area, Kim B. advises: "It was so hot here even in September but the views were worth it. The pretty red canyons have lots of trails and geology to explore and there is a lot of wildlife including bisons. Advisories were to have plenty of water on hand at all times."
Limited services: Many campgrounds have restricted operating hours or seasonal availability. Regarding Wayne Russell RV Park, George K. notes: "You get 2 days free, then $10 a night after that. Great for a overnight or have something to do in Floydada."
Site selection considerations: Campground layout can significantly impact your experience. For Caprock Canyons, Neal R. shares: "First evening came it as it got dark. Pretty easy to navigate the site by moonlight and get set up. However, Bison roam through the area and aside from hoofprints they will leave reminders of their presence."
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife education opportunities: The diverse wildlife near Plainview provides natural learning experiences for children. Jenny S. from Wild Horse Equestrian Area explains: "The park has a free roaming bison herd (ancestral to the original bison that once roamed Texas in the 1800's) and a large prairie dog colony. They have hiking trails for all levels. Our girls, 5 and 7, begged to have a few extra days at the park."
Swimming access: Water features offer cooling options during hot months. For Lake Mackenzie Park, Jeremy A. recommends: "Great place every campsite has great views looking over the lake. Has great beach that can take vehicle down onto and kids can play in water and can pull boat right up to beach."
Playground amenities: Several pet-friendly campgrounds near Plainview include play structures. Karen B. mentions about Lubbock RV Park: "Dog area, playground and pool were well maintained. A very good stop over for one night."
Tips from RVers
Generator planning: Some campgrounds restrict generator use, requiring alternative power solutions. Shari G. advises about the Equestrian Camp: "Water only, no toilets, no electricity so come prepared with your solar panel. Spacious sites, corrals for horses at each site, and one very squeaky windmill that will keep you awake at night if it's windy, which it always is."
Site leveling information: RVers recommend checking site conditions before setup. Doug W. notes about Lubbock RV Park: "Sites are close together in the traditional manner. Check in was a snap as all out paperwork was in an envelope taped to the office door. The price is fair for what you get."
Hookup configurations: Understanding electrical capabilities prevents system overload. For RV travelers with pets near Plainview, Jackie R. points out about Wayne Russell: "Free little stop with hook ups. Sites are pull through. Accommodate about 4 medium trailers. Water and electric on site with dump station on edge of park."
