Read on for our complete list of can’t-miss activities and attractions in and around Palo Duro Canyon.

Explore the rugged beauty of Palo Duro State Park, hailed as the Grand Canyon of Texas, and uncover endless outdoor adventures from hiking to stargazing. Plan your ultimate Texas Panhandle getaway with insider tips on accommodations, activities, and nearby attractions.

<h1 dir="ltr">Plan the Perfect Trip to Palo Duro Canyon State Park</h1>
<p dir="ltr">Steeped in the rich pioneer history of the Texas Panhandle, Palo Duro State Park is a true national treasure, boasting stunning views, rugged rock formations, and endless opportunities for outdoor recreation like hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Nicknamed the Grand Canyon of Texas, Palo Duro Canyon is the second largest canyon in the USA, topped only by Grand Canyon National Park itself.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Read on for our complete list of can&rsquo;t-miss activities and attractions in and around Palo Duro Canyon, from our favorite hiking trails to the best places to view wildlife or grab a bite to eat. By the end of this post, you&rsquo;ll be more than ready to plan the ultimate adventure to Palo Duro Canyon State Park.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Planning Your Visit</h2>
<p dir="ltr">We&rsquo;ll help you along in the planning process throughout this post, but here are the first few things you should be thinking about as you draw up your Palo Duro Itinerary.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">Best Time to Visit</h3>
<p dir="ltr">The Texas Summer in Palo Duro Canyon can get extremely hot (up to 120&deg; on the canyon floor!) so the best time to visit this state park is in the Spring (March-May) or the Fall (September-November) for more reasonable temperatures. The weather can be more unpredictable in these seasons though, so it&rsquo;s always a good idea to pack an extra layer or two.</p>
<p dir="ltr">If you do decide to hike in Palo Duro Canyon during the Summer months, proceed with caution, plan for the temperatures to exceed the forecast, and pack plenty of water and salty snacks to stay hydrated!</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">Where to Stay</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Check out some of our top picks for RV camping within easy driving distance of Palo Duro Canyon State Park.</p>
<h4 dir="ltr">Scenic Valley RV Park</h4>
<h2 dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.spot2nite.com/park/bay-point-landing" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img style="width: 360px; height: 270px; border-radius: 12px;" src="https://spot2nite-staging.s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/uploads/media-library/photos/f9e6f7dc-21d3-11ef-a404-42010a001409/original.jpg?v=63884657375" alt=""></a></h2>
<p dir="ltr"><span style="color: #169179;"><a style="color: #169179;" href="https://www.spot2nite.com/park/scenic-valley-rv-park">Scenic Valley RV Park</a></span> is a quiet and relaxing RV campsite located 20 minutes from both Palo Duro Canyon and Downtown Amarillo, offering spacious sites with 6-ft privacy fences, full hookups, and space for 3 vehicles in addition to a full-sized RV. And some sites even feature pergolas, storage sheds, and garden beds.</p>
<p dir="ltr"><a style="text-decoration: none; display: inline-block; background: #009080; color: #fff; border-radius: 4px; text-align: center; padding: 10px 20px; word-break: keep-all; font-weight: bold;" href="https://www.spot2nite.com/park/scenic-valley-rv-park" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Book now</a></p>
<p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p>
<h4 dir="ltr">Blue Dog RV Park</h4>
<h2 dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.spot2nite.com/park/blue-dog-rv-park-amarillo-tx" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img style="width: 360px; height: 270px; border-radius: 12px;" src="https://spot2nite-staging.s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/uploads/media-library/photos/c5f229be-21d4-11ef-862a-42010a001409/original.jpeg?v=63884658070" alt=""></a></h2>
<p dir="ltr">Located on the edge of Amarillo, <a href="https://www.spot2nite.com/park/blue-dog-rv-park-amarillo-tx"><span style="color: #169179;">Blue Dog RV Park</span></a> is a quick 15-minute drive from Palo Duro Canyon, and boasts a convenient and central location within 20 minutes of many of the area&rsquo;s other attractions like Cadillac Ranch, Big Texan Steakhouse, Canyon Main Street, and more. At this pet-friendly resort, you&rsquo;ll enjoy a wide selection of spacious RV sites with full hookups and plenty of other amenities to make your stay comfortable.</p>
<p dir="ltr"><a style="text-decoration: none; display: inline-block; background: #009080; color: #fff; border-radius: 4px; text-align: center; padding: 10px 20px; word-break: keep-all; font-weight: bold;" href="https://www.spot2nite.com/park/blue-dog-rv-park-amarillo-tx" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Book now</a></p>
<p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p>
<h4 dir="ltr">The Silos at Canyon RV Park</h4>
<h2 dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.spot2nite.com/park/the-silos-at-canyon-rv-park" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img style="width: 360px; height: 270px; border-radius: 12px;" src="https://spot2nite-staging.s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/uploads/media-library/photos/9bca4250-21d6-11ef-b6fe-42010a001409/original.jpg?v=63884658318" alt=""></a></h2>
<p dir="ltr"><span style="color: #169179;"><a style="color: #169179;" href="https://www.spot2nite.com/park/the-silos-at-canyon-rv-park">The Silos at Canyon RV Park</a></span> is just 25 minutes from Palo Duro Canyon State Park and they offer 8 very spacious RV sites that accommodate the biggest of rigs. Enjoy a comfortable and cozy basecamp fully equipped with essential amenities for your Texas Panhandle adventure!</p>
<p dir="ltr"><a style="text-decoration: none; display: inline-block; background: #009080; color: #fff; border-radius: 4px; text-align: center; padding: 10px 20px; word-break: keep-all; font-weight: bold;" href="https://www.spot2nite.com/park/the-silos-at-canyon-rv-park" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Book now</a></p>
<p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">Choose Your Activities</h3>
<p dir="ltr">From hiking and mountain biking to horseback riding and sightseeing, Palo Duro Canyon has a lot to offer, so it&rsquo;s best to pick out the things you definitely want to see and do ahead of time. Read on for a comprehensive list of the top attractions in Palo Duro Canyon State Park. It&rsquo;s also worth stopping by the visitor center upon arrival to pick up your trail maps.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Top Hiking and Biking Trails in Palo Duro Canyon</h2>
<p dir="ltr">With over 30 miles of trails, Palo Duro Canyon has something for everyone. From easy flat trails with scenic views to more rugged hikes winding up and down the canyon walls, these are our favorite hiking trails in Palo Duro Canyon:</p>
<h4 dir="ltr">1 - The Lighthouse Trail</h4>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Difficulty: </strong>Moderate</p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Length: </strong>5.9 mi</p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Estimated Time: </strong>2h 14m</p>
<p dir="ltr">The Lighthouse is undeniably the most famous rock formation in Palo Duro Canyon and is an absolute must-see. This moderately challenging trail winds through a sandy environment decorated with colorful cliffs and pristine views, leading up to the Lighthouse itself.</p>
<h4 dir="ltr">2 - Palo Duro Caves Trail</h4>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Difficulty: </strong>Easy</p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Length: </strong>0.9 mi</p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Estimated Time: </strong>20m</p>
<p dir="ltr">Palo Duro Canyon is full of incredible caves with endless nooks and crannies to explore, but the Big Cave is the unrivaled crown jewel of them all. The Cave Trail is a quick and easy 0.9 out-and-back trail that winds around a large number of caves including the Big Cave, offering endless opportunities for exploration.</p>
<h4 dir="ltr">3 - Givens, Spicer, &amp; Lowry Trail</h4>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Difficulty: </strong>Moderate</p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Length: </strong>3.2 mi</p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Estimated Time: </strong>2h 7m</p>
<p dir="ltr">One of the most popular hikes in the park, this trail is jam-packed with stellar views and enjoyable hiking. You can hike it out and back to the Lighthouse formation, or continue on the Lighthouse Trail to link up with even more trails.</p>
<h4 dir="ltr">4 - Rock Garden Trail</h4>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Difficulty: </strong>Hard</p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Length: </strong>5.0 mi</p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Estimated Time:</strong> 2h 14m</p>
<p dir="ltr">This challenging trail is great for experienced hikers, climbing a field of boulders at the bottom of the canyon and climbing up to the canyon rim, offering beautiful viewpoints all along the way. You can also extend your hike by a couple of miles to make a stop at the iconic Tub Spring Draw Point.</p>
<h4 dir="ltr">5 - Juniper Cliffside Trail and Juniper Riverside Trail Loop</h4>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Difficulty:</strong> Easy</p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Length: </strong>2.0 mi</p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Estimated Time: </strong>45m</p>
<p dir="ltr">This route forms a loop from Wolfberry Campground by combining two trails, running parallel to Park Road 5 Alternate. Despite its proximity to the road, the trail offers much to see along a flat, sandy path that leads to the Juniper Cliffside Trail, where a spur trail takes you to a scenic overlook.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Horseback Riding Adventures</h2>
<p dir="ltr">What&rsquo;s a trip to a Texas state park without a proper horseback ride? Palo Duro Canyon is an excellent destination for riding with several miles of horse-friendly trails open to riders, including the Lighthouse Trail, the Givens, Spicer, and Lowry Running Trail, Juniper/Cliffside Trail, the Little Fox Canyon Trail, Capitol Peak Mountain Bike Trail, and the aptly named Equestrian Trail. So saddle up and get ready for the ride of a lifetime.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Wildlife and Bird watching</h2>
<p dir="ltr">With a diverse ecosystem, the canyon is home to numerous species including mule deer, wild turkeys, coyotes, roadrunners, cottontails, barbary sheep, and even bobcats and diamondback rattlesnakes.&nbsp; As an added bonus, a portion of the Official State of Texas Longhorn herd lives within the park!</p>
<p dir="ltr">Palo Duro Canyon is also a renowned birdwatching zone, with a diverse population including several species of hawk, sparrows, woodpeckers, kingfishers, and many more. Check out the <span style="color: #169179;"><a style="color: #169179;" href="https://tpwd.texas.gov/publications/pwdpubs/media/pwd_cd_p4506_0007r.pdf">Palo Duro Canyon State Park Bird Checklist</a></span>, created by Texas Parks and Wildlife for a comprehensive list of all the birds you have a chance of seeing in the canyon.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Scenic Drives</h2>
<p dir="ltr">Palo Duro Canyon State Park features a scenic 16-mile loop road that takes you down to the canyon floor and offers top-tier views throughout. Many locals, however, might recommend a different route with views that rival, and maybe even surpass those of the park loop. The 48-mile stretch of TX-207 between Claude and Silverton is a beautiful quiet drive that offers stunning views of the surrounding area, as well as some of the very best views of the canyon itself.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Stargazing</h2>
<p dir="ltr">The park's remote location offers dark skies perfect for stargazing, especially on new moon nights. The park regularly facilitates star parties and moonlight hikes with astronomy binoculars and multiple telescopes, giving visitors the chance to see far beyond the well-known constellations.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">TEXAS Outdoor Musical</h2>
<p dir="ltr">If you&rsquo;re planning to visit Palo Duro Canyon around the 4th of July, you&rsquo;re in luck! The TEXAS Outdoor Musical, staged annually in Palo Duro Canyon State Park, is a celebrated theatrical event that narrates the history of the Texas Panhandle in the 1800s. Set in the natural amphitheater of the canyon, the production blends music and dance to tell the stories of early settlers, including cowboys and Native Americans. Featuring professional performances, special effects like fireworks, and dramatic lighting, this musical not only entertains but educates audiences about Texas' cultural heritage and pioneer spirit.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">The Canyon Gallery</h2>
<p dir="ltr">Built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) and located inside the Palo Duro Canyon State Park Visitor Center, The Canyon Gallery features an impressive collection of historical video productions, archaeological and nature displays, and Southwest art available for purchase. The collection includes handmade Native American pottery, Navajo, Zuni, and Santo Domingo silver and turquoise jewelry, handmade hunting knives, and a unique assortment of regional tools that are beaded by the Comanche and Kiowa tribes. It&rsquo;s here that you&rsquo;ll pick up your t-shirt, hat, and other merchandise to commemorate your trip to Palo Duro Canyon.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Dining at the Trading Post</h2>
<p dir="ltr">Conveniently located inside of Palo Duro Canyon State Park, The Trading Post offers a convenient shop to gear up for your day of adventures as well as a delicious, authentic Texas restaurant serving up world-class burgers made fresh daily.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Top Area Attraction Near Palo Duro Canyon State Park</h2>
<p dir="ltr">While the canyon itself is plenty to plan a whole trip around, there are some other attractions nearby that can take your Texas Panhandle vacation to the next level.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Located in Canyon, Texas, this is the largest history museum in Texas. It offers extensive exhibits on the cultural and natural history of the Panhandle-Plains region, including art, paleontology, petroleum, and pioneers.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">Amarillo Botanical Gardens</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Situated in nearby Amarillo, these renowned gardens showcase beautiful seasonal blooms and thematic areas like the Japanese garden, making it a peaceful retreat and a learning center about local flora.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">Cadillac Ranch</h3>
<p dir="ltr">An iconic public art installation and sculpture in Amarillo, featuring ten Cadillac cars half-buried nose-first in the ground. It's a popular spot for graffiti and photo ops. Don&rsquo;t forget to grab a can of spray paint to add your unique touch to the murals.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">Amarillo Zoo</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Located in Thompson Park in Amarillo, the zoo is home to over 60 species of animals and offers a variety of educational programs, making it a fun visit for families.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Plan Your Palo Duro Adventure With Spot2nite</h2>
<p dir="ltr">Ready to start planning your Palo Duro Canyon road trip? Take advantage of Spot2Nite&rsquo;s <span style="color: #169179;"><a style="color: #169179;" href="http://spot2nite.com/">easy-to-use, interactive booking platform</a></span> that makes planning any camping trip a breeze. Browse a huge selection of sites including RV and tent sites, cabins and vacation rentals, and unique glamping accommodations across the USA and Canada. Tailor your search with custom filters, book multiple stays in one easy transaction, and find the perfect getaway near your destination with Spot2Nite!</p>