Day Trips from Amarillo
← All Amarillo day tripsDay Trips from Amarillo: State Parks & Natural Areas
The best state parks and natural areas within driving distance of Amarillo, TX. Hiking, camping, swimming, and stunning scenery without the national park crowds. Real drive times, ratings, and visitor info included.
12 state parks near Amarillo
Sandy Sanders State Wildlife Management Area North Entrance
OK 73645, USA
Just 1 hr 59 min from Amarillo, rated 4.9 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Caprock Canyons State Park & Trailway
Quitaque, TX 79255
Just 1 hr 40 min from Amarillo, rated 4.8 stars by 2,460 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Palo Duro Canyon State Park
TX 79015, USA
Just 29 min from Amarillo, rated 4.8 stars by 10,808 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Copper Breaks State Park
Quanah, TX 79252
Just 2 hrs 26 min from Amarillo, rated 4.7 stars by 880 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
The Big Cave at Palo Duro Canyon State Park
Canyon, TX 79015
Just 49 min from Amarillo, rated 4.7 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Clayton Lake State Park and Dinosaur Trackways
Clayton, NM 88415
Just 2 hrs 21 min from Amarillo, rated 4.6 stars by 657 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Buffalo Lake National Wildlife Refuge
TX 79015, USA
Just 34 min from Amarillo, rated 4.6 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Lake Meredith National Recreation Area Headquarters
Fritch, TX 79036
Just 39 min from Amarillo, rated 4.6 stars by 435 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Black Mesa State Park & Nature Preserve
Kenton, OK 73946
Just 2 hrs 24 min from Amarillo, rated 4.6 stars by 773 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Quartz Mountain State Park
Lone Wolf, OK 73655
Just 2 hrs 27 min from Amarillo, rated 4.6 stars by 1,658 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Muleshoe National Wildlife Refuge
Muleshoe, TX 79347
Just 2 hrs 1 min from Amarillo, rated 4.4 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Rita Blanca National Grasslands
Clayton, NM 88415
Just 1 hr 42 min from Amarillo, rated 4.4 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About State Parks Day Trips from Amarillo
What are the best state parks near Amarillo, TX?
The best state parks near Amarillo offer hiking, camping, swimming, fishing, and scenic overlooks. Check the cards above for top-rated parks with drive times, ratings, and budget estimates.
How much does it cost to visit state parks near Amarillo?
Most state parks near Amarillo charge a vehicle entry fee of $5-$15 per day. Annual passes are usually available for $25-$50 and pay for themselves in 2-3 visits. Camping fees are separate and vary by site type.
Which state parks near Amarillo are best for camping?
Several state parks within driving distance of Amarillo offer campgrounds ranging from primitive tent sites to full-hookup RV sites with showers. Book early for summer weekends, as popular parks fill up months in advance.
What is the best time to visit state parks near Amarillo?
Spring and fall offer the best weather and smallest crowds at state parks near Amarillo. Summer is great for swimming and camping but parks are busiest. Winter visits are peaceful and many parks stay open year-round for hiking.
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