The Palo Duro Canyon State Park Pavilion, also known as the Mack Dick Pavilion, is a 3,300 square foot facility located within the Palo Duro Canyon State Park in the Texas Panhandle. This spacious pavilion offers a dining hall with a double-sided fireplace, a full commercial kitchen, restrooms, and large porches, providing a scenic and comfortable setting for group gatherings and events.
Exploring the Palo Duro Canyon State Park
Palo Duro Canyon State Park is the most spectacular and scenic landscape feature in the Texas Panhandle, formed by millions of years of water erosion and the West Texas wind. The park is easily accessible by car, motorhome, or fifth wheel, and is located just 25 miles from downtown Amarillo and 14 miles from the Mainstreet town of Canyon.
Visitors to the park can enjoy a variety of amenities and activities, including:
- Scenic views and historical sites
- Picnic tables and public restrooms/showers
- Miles of hiking and biking trails
- Horseback riding
- A souvenir shop with a grill
- Camping and parking areas for day trips, overnight tent camping, or extended stays in larger RVs
The Mack Dick Pavilion
The Mack Dick Pavilion is a versatile facility that can be reserved for group gatherings and events through the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s Reserve America system. The pavilion features:
- A spacious dining hall with a double-sided fireplace
- A full commercial kitchen
- Restrooms
- Large porches
The cost of reserving the Mack Dick Pavilion varies depending on the date, time, and duration of the reservation. For the most up-to-date pricing information, visitors are encouraged to check the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s website or contact the park directly.
The Tasajillo Pavilion
In addition to the Mack Dick Pavilion, the Palo Duro Canyon State Park also offers the Tasajillo Pavilion, located between the Juniper Camping Loop and the Wolfberry Group Camp. The Tasajillo Pavilion is available for day use only and can accommodate up to 100 people. It features picnic tables, grills, and electricity.
Facilities and Amenities
The Palo Duro Canyon State Park offers a variety of other facilities and amenities, including:
- The Canyon Gallery, operated by the Partners in Palo Duro Canyon Foundation, featuring historical video productions, archeological and nature exhibits, and a selection of Southwest art, handmade Native American pottery, and handmade jewelry
- Cabin rentals, including the Cow Camp Cabins (built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1933 and recently equipped with modern heating and cooling) and Doves Rest Cabins, which provide private overnight luxury accommodations with unique views of the canyon
Operating Hours
The Palo Duro Canyon State Park has the following operating hours:
- The one-way park exit never closes
- The park headquarters opens at 8:00 am daily, with closing times varying by season
Conclusion
The Palo Duro Canyon State Park Pavilion, with its scenic setting and versatile facilities, provides a unique and memorable gathering spot for groups and events in the heart of the Texas Panhandle. Whether you’re planning a family reunion, a corporate retreat, or a special celebration, the Mack Dick Pavilion and the surrounding Palo Duro Canyon State Park offer a truly remarkable experience.
References:
– Palo Duro Canyon State Park Pavilion
– Palo Duro Canyon State Park
– Palo Duro Canyon State Park Group Facilities
– Palo Duro Canyon State Park Fees and Facilities
– Reserve America – Palo Duro Canyon State Park