Palo Duro Canyon State Park, TX

PARK HUNT DATES:
The park is closed at the Old West Stables starting at 10PM on December 1 and will reopen at 7:30AM December 14.

The areas that buffer the back country will remain closed December 14 and will reopen at 7:30AM December 18. This includes the Equestrian area, Sponsored Youth Group Area, and Backcountry hiking and camping.

The Rim Cabins, Visitor Center, scenic overlook, Mack Dick Pavilion, Trading Post, Glamping, Sagebrush Camp Loop, and Old West Stables will all remain open during this time. The only trails accessible during this time will be the CCC/Triassic Trails.

The Park will return to normal operations at 8AM on December 18, 2025.

SUMMER TRAIL SAFETY:
Temperatures in the canyon are often 5-10 degrees hotter than on the rim. Outdoor activities during this time can be dangerous. Stay safe!
• Avoid hiking during the heat of the day.
• Stay on trails.
• Drink 1 liter of water per person, per mile.
• Hike with friends.

The following trails will close from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. on days when the National Weather Service issues a heat advisory. Please observe these closures for your safety.
* Lighthouse
* Comanche
* Givens, Spicer, Lowry (GSL)
* Rock Garden

See the forecast or contact the park for more information.

January 9, 2026 - The equestrian campsites and equestrian trail are closed for trail maintenance.

October 21, 2025 - Burn ban in effect until further notice. No ash-producing fires are allowed, including wood or charcoal. You may use containerized fuel stoves with a shut-off valve for cooking.

LATE ARRIVAL INSTRUCTIONS:
FOR RVS/TENTS/CAMPERS: All campers are required to check in at the Park Headquarters before occupying a site. If you arrive after 5:30 PM, please follow the directions below.

If you made your camping reservation before 4 PM, you will find an envelope with your last name on it in a yellow mailbox attached to the Headquarters building. Inside this envelope you will find your permit, maps, and other important park information. Please review your permit carefully. If your permit says "LATE ARRIVAL CAMPING PERMIT" you must come back to the Headquarters building before 9 AM the next morning to complete your check in.

FOR CABINS/PAVILION/GROUP HALL: If you have a reservation and will be arriving at the park after 5:30pm, call the park at 806-488-2227 ext. 220 prior to office closure for late arrival instructions.