Dispersed camping near Vega, Texas centers primarily around the Lake Meredith National Recreation Area, situated about 60 miles northeast of Vega. The recreation area sits at approximately 2,800 feet elevation in the Texas Panhandle, where the flat landscape gives way to canyon formations. Strong winds consistently impact the region, with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and winter bringing freezing conditions.
What to do
Horseback riding trails: Lower Plum Creek Campground features four horse corrals and hitching posts with water available for horses, making it an excellent base for equestrian activities. According to a camper, "This is a horse friendly park. Open area with not many trees. One of thirteen primitive camping areas in the Lake Meredith National Rec Area."
Stargazing opportunities: The remote location provides excellent night sky visibility at McBride Canyon & Mullinaw Creek Camp. One visitor noted, "Very dark out here though! Would definitely visit again." Bring red-filtered flashlights to preserve night vision.
Explore canyon roads: The dirt roads beyond the main camping areas offer scenic views. As one camper reported, "Just a short drive/hike further up the canyon on the dirt road for some beautiful views." Requires high-clearance vehicles after rain.
What campers like
Solitude and space: The distance between sites at Rosita Flats OHV Area provides privacy uncommon in developed campgrounds. The sites are spaced far enough apart that even during busy periods, campers maintain privacy.
Free camping: McBride Canyon offers no-cost camping with basic amenities. A visitor noted, "Far enough out from the city. Free! Fire pit and picnic tables. The bathroom seemed pretty nice. Can't beat it."
Solar power potential: The open landscape works well for solar setups. According to one camper at Lower Plum Creek Campground, "The Texas sun worked great on my solar and my sunburn." Most sites lack tree cover that would interfere with panels.
What you should know
Extreme bug problems: Insect populations can reach overwhelming levels, particularly in summer months. One camper at McBride Canyon warned, "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."
Bathroom facilities: Vault toilets vary in cleanliness and maintenance. A visitor reported, "There are a couple of holes dug in the ground with a toilet sitting on top. I used it and noticed it was to the top by the rim of the seat full of human waste."
Road deterioration: Access roads become progressively worse deeper into the canyons. One camper advised, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Prepare for limited facilities: Self-sufficiency is essential with no drinking water available. One visitor to McBride Canyon noted, "Upon arrival, it is very far out of the way of any towns or amenities. So make sure you bring everything you need for your stay. This is not a one night stop if you're just driving through."
Check current fire regulations: Fire bans frequently impact the area. A camper shared, "I checked the local website and there is a fire ban in effect but it could change in the future. So be sure to check if you plan on having a fire."
Avoid specific areas with safety concerns: Rosita Flats has reported security issues. One visitor warned, "This site is actually the River Site ATV trails which appears to be where local people with their dirt bikes and ATV ride the trails. It's right by the river off the hwy, trash is everywhere and it looks like a very unsafe area."
Tips from RVers
Arrive during daylight: Finding suitable spots after dark proves challenging in unfamiliar terrain. One RVer at McBride Canyon shared, "I recommend arriving before sunset so as to be able to see but we were able to find a spot in the dark after about 45 mins of driving around."
Size restrictions for larger vehicles: The rough roads limit accessibility for bigger rigs. A camper cautioned, "Definitely wouldn't recommend driving big RV's past the campsite. Steep unpaved grades. I didn't travel too far down though."
Wind protection strategies: The open terrain provides little natural windbreak. One camper reported, "So windy I could barely sleep." Position vehicles to block prevailing winds and bring heavy-duty tent stakes.
