Campgrounds near Vega, Texas sit at an elevation of about 4,000 feet in the High Plains region. The area experiences dramatic temperature fluctuations with summer highs regularly exceeding 90°F and winter lows dropping below freezing. Strong winds are common throughout the year, particularly in spring, affecting tent camping conditions and creating potential hazards for RV awnings.
What to do
Explore Palo Duro Canyon State Park: Located about 60 miles southeast of Vega, this dramatic canyon offers hiking trails with stunning geological formations. "Wow!! It's an amazing hairpin turn drive down into the canyon. Awesome views on the way! Make sure to stop at the CCC overlook at the visitor center for photos," notes a visitor at Fortress Cliff Primitive.
Visit Route 66 landmarks: The historic Route 66 corridor runs through Vega with several preserved landmarks. "We ran across Route 66 RV Ranch. Tom is amazing & very down to earth, he will go above and beyond to help you with your needs," reports a camper at Route 66 RV Ranch.
Cadillac Ranch exploration: Located just a mile from some campgrounds, this iconic art installation is worth visiting early morning to avoid crowds. "There's a small gift shop where you can find Route 66 stuff and all the souvenirs you could ever want for the Cadillac Ranch, lots of fun items," mentions a reviewer from Cadillac Ranch RV Park.
What campers like
Level sites with full hookups: Campers appreciate well-maintained camping pads throughout the area. "Neat, clean, and Mitzy is so nice. This rv park is perfect," shares a guest at Walnut RV Park, while another notes the "pull thru sites that are covered in grass & weeds, but are level."
Convenient highway access: Most campgrounds offer easy access to I-40 for overnight travelers. "Easy access of the interstate and a good location to a few restaurants. We were able to go to a great steakhouse, grocery store and church the next morning all within 10-15 minutes from the campground," explains a visitor at Oasis Amarillo Resort.
Concrete parking pads: Many sites feature solid foundations even in budget locations. "Clean level concrete pads. Would be a bargain if it was half the price. You can hear the sounds of the freeway. Clean safe place to stay," notes a camper at Love's RV Hookup.
What you should know
Highway noise affects sleep quality: The proximity to I-40 creates significant noise issues at most campgrounds. "It's so windy here we weren't even able to go outside," reports one camper, while others mention "ear plugs would definitely help when sleeping."
Limited shade available: Most sites lack sufficient tree coverage for summer heat relief. "Since we stopped in November, scorching days were not an issue," explains a camper at Fortress Cliff Primitive, but summer visitors should prepare for direct sun exposure with temperatures regularly reaching triple digits.
Fluctuating management quality: Facility maintenance varies widely between locations and seasons. "Bathrooms definitely need some work, just as the photos show. Plenty of hot water at the showers," notes one visitor, while another reports bathrooms "badly need paint, renovation and a good cleaning."
Tips for camping with families
Indoor pools for summer cooling: Several campgrounds offer climate-controlled swimming options. "Great indoor pool with sauna and hot tub. Fenced areas for three separate dog parks," reports a visitor at Big Texan RV Ranch.
Playground access: Kid-friendly amenities are available but vary by location. "My kids LOVED the bounce pad," shares one family that visited Big Texan RV Ranch, while another campground visitor notes "they have a playground" among their amenities.
Evening entertainment options: Family-friendly activities can help with restless children. "We went in for the hay rides. There a pool, laundry facilities and little store. Also a clubhouse with WiFi," reports a camper at Amarillo KOA.
Tips from RVers
Utility reliability concerns: Water pressure and electrical service quality vary significantly. "The water leaked so bad at multiple sites that your site would be flooded if you kept it on and attached to your rig. We just kept refilling our freshwater tank," shares a camper at Midpoint Campground.
After-hours check-in procedures: Late arrivals are common but accommodated differently by each facility. "We called about an hour out to get a site. Super friendly and helpful with dinner recommendations," notes one visitor, while another shares "We were able to pay for our sight by dropping the envelope at the office."
Cell service inconsistency: Coverage varies dramatically even within short distances. "No cell service in the canyon, at least not for Verizon," reports a camper, while others note "excellent place for a night or two as your traveling through Amarillo" with "good reception for TV and phone."
