The journey from Brownwood to Palo Duro Canyon State Park, often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of Texas,” is a must-experience for state park touring enthusiasts. This comprehensive guide will provide you with exact facts, figures, data points, and unique perspectives to help you plan your trip to this natural wonder.
Traveling from Brownwood to Palo Duro Canyon State Park
The most convenient way to travel from Brownwood to Palo Duro Canyon State Park is by car. According to Rome2Rio, the cheapest way to make this journey costs only $81, and the quickest way takes just 5 hours. To find the travel option that best suits your needs, visit the Rome2Rio website.
Palo Duro Canyon State Park: Hours, Rates, and Contact Information
Hours of Operation
- The park’s one-way park exit never closes.
- Park Headquarters opens at 8:00 am daily, with closing times varying by season.
Rates
- Entrance Fees:
- $8 per person (13 years and older)
- Free for children 12 years and under
- Camping Fees:
- Campsites with water and electricity: $26 per night
- Tent sites: $16 per night
- Equestrian sites: $16 per night
- Backpack camping areas: $12 per night
- Cabins on the canyon’s rim: $130 per night
- Cow Camp cabins on the canyon floor: $100 per night
- Glamping sites: $150 per night
Contact Information
- Phone: (806) 488-2227
- Address: 11450 Park Road 5, Canyon, TX 79015
Palo Duro Canyon State Park: Activities and Experiences
Trails and Backpack Camping
Palo Duro Canyon State Park offers more than 30 miles of hiking, biking, and equestrian trails. For an interactive tour of the trails, visit the park’s website. The park also provides an all-terrain wheelchair for use on the trails; contact the park in advance to reserve it for your visit.
Horseback Riding
Visitors can bring their own horses (with original Coggins papers) and park their trailers at the equestrian campground. Alternatively, guided tours are available through Old West Stables on the canyon floor, which leads tours to Timber Creek Canyon and offers souvenirs and a snack bar. Reservations are required for guided tours; call (806) 488-2180 to make a reservation.
TEXAS Outdoor Musical
The TEXAS Outdoor Musical runs Tuesdays through Sundays in the summer at the Pioneer Amphitheater in the park. This family-friendly show features singing, dancing, fireworks, and Texas humor. For tickets, visit the TEXAS Outdoor Musical website.
Ranger Programs
Palo Duro Canyon State Park offers programs on the park’s history and natural features, including birdwatching, Longhorn cattle, and driving tours with park rangers. Visit the park’s Events page for upcoming programs and call the park to schedule a group program.
Volunteer Opportunities
Visit the park’s Volunteer page and search by zip code (79015) to see how you can help. You can also visit the Partners in Palo Duro Canyon Foundation website to learn about other ways to support the park.