Palo Duro Canyon State Park, located in the heart of the Texas Panhandle, is a true natural wonder that attracts visitors from all over the world. Whether you’re planning a day trip or an extended stay, understanding the park’s hours of operation is crucial to making the most of your visit. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into the details of Palo Duro Canyon State Park’s hours, so you can plan your adventure with confidence.
Palo Duro Canyon State Park Hours
Palo Duro Canyon State Park is open daily, with the park entry gate opening automatically at 7:00 am and closing automatically at 10:00 pm. The one-way park exit never closes, allowing visitors to leave the park at any time.
The park headquarters, which houses the visitor center, opens at 8:00 am daily. The closing times for the headquarters vary by season, so it’s recommended to check the park’s website or call ahead to confirm the current hours.
Overnight Accommodations
For those looking to extend their stay, 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 and four Cow Camp cabins on the canyon floor, available for overnight stay by advance reservation.
For a more luxurious experience, the park offers glamping (luxury camping) sites, fully furnished with amenities such as air conditioning, rustic furnishings, refrigerators, microwaves, and more.
Trails and Activities
Palo Duro Canyon State Park boasts over 30 miles of hiking, biking, and equestrian trails, providing visitors with ample opportunities to explore the stunning natural landscape. However, it’s important to note that the trails can be challenging, and visitors are advised to bring plenty of water and travel with a partner.
Horseback riding is allowed on trails through 1,500 acres set aside for this purpose, and visitors can bring their own horses, provided they have a negative Coggins test within the past 12 months. Guided tours are also available through Old West Stables on the canyon floor.
During the summer months, visitors can enjoy the TEXAS Outdoor Musical, a family-friendly performance featuring singing, dancing, fireworks, and Texas humor, held at the Pioneer Amphitheater in the park.
Accessibility and Amenities
Palo Duro Canyon State Park offers accessible campsites, restrooms, and picnic areas, as well as an all-terrain wheelchair available for use in the park. Visitors with mobility impairments are encouraged to contact the park in advance to reserve the all-terrain wheelchair.
The park also features a visitor center with a park store, selling books, pottery, jewelry, and more. Souvenirs, snacks, and meals are available at The Trading Post on the canyon floor.
Fees and Contacts
Day use entrance fees for Palo Duro Canyon State Park are $8 per person, with children 12 and under admitted free. Overnight camping fees vary by site type and range from $16 to $25 per night for Texas residents and $20 to $30 per night for non-residents.
In case of emergencies, the park’s emergency phone number is (806) 488-2227.
Conclusion
Palo Duro Canyon State Park is a true gem of the Texas Panhandle, offering visitors a unique and unforgettable outdoor experience. By understanding the park’s hours of operation, accommodation options, and available activities, you can plan your visit to make the most of this stunning natural wonder. Whether you’re seeking a day of adventure or a weekend getaway, Palo Duro Canyon State Park is sure to leave a lasting impression.