Palo Duro Canyon State Park, often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of Texas,” is a must-visit destination for state park touring enthusiasts. Located in the Texas Panhandle, the park is approximately 25 miles from downtown Amarillo and 14 miles from the Mainstreet town of Canyon. The canyon was formed over millions of years by water erosion from the Prairie Dog Town Fork of the Red River and the West Texas wind.
Hours and Fees
The park is open daily, with park headquarters opening at 8:00 am and closing times varying by season. The one-way park exit never closes. The entrance fee for the park is $8 per person for those aged 13 and above, while children under 12 enter for free. There is an additional fee of $5 per day for overnight camping.
Camping and Accommodations
Palo Duro Canyon State Park offers a variety of camping options, including:
- Campsites with water and electricity
- Tent sites
- Equestrian sites
- Backpack camping areas
In addition to the traditional camping sites, the park also features:
- Three cabins on the canyon’s rim
- Four Cow Camp cabins on the canyon floor
- Glamping sites with luxury amenities such as air conditioning, refrigerators, microwaves, coffee makers, and gas grills and fire pits
Trails and Activities
Palo Duro Canyon State Park boasts over 30 miles of hiking, biking, and equestrian trails, with an all-terrain wheelchair available for use. Horseback riding is also popular, with over 1,500 acres set aside for horseback riding and guided tours available through Old West Stables. During the summer, visitors can enjoy the TEXAS Outdoor Musical, a family-friendly show with singing, dancing, fireworks, and Texas humor.
Civilian Conservation Corps
The Civilian Conservation Corps played a significant role in the development of Palo Duro Canyon State Park, building structures and trails over 70 years ago. These structures and trails continue to be enjoyed by visitors today, showcasing the lasting impact of the CCC’s efforts.
Nearby Attractions
In addition to the park’s own attractions, there are several nearby points of interest that can enhance your visit to the Frederick to Palo Duro Canyon State Park area:
- Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum
- Buffalo Lake National Wildlife Refuge
- Amarillo Zoo
- Don Harrington Discovery Center
- Wildcat Bluff Nature Center
- American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum
- Lake Meredith National Recreation Area
- Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument
Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or a mix of both, the Frederick to Palo Duro Canyon State Park region offers a wealth of opportunities for state park touring enthusiasts.
References
- Palo Duro Canyon State Park. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://palodurocanyon.com
- Texas Parks and Wildlife. (n.d.). Palo Duro Canyon State Park. Retrieved from https://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/palo-duro-canyon
- 24inTX. (2014, August 13). Palo Duro Canyon State Park. Retrieved from https://24intx.com/2014/08/13/palo-duro-canyon-state-park/.