Palo Duro Canyon State Park Camping
in December
Booking Palo Duro Canyon State Park in December
December is a very low-crowd month at Palo Duro Canyon State Park. Harsh winter conditions. Texas state parks open reservations exactly 5 months in advance — for December dates, that window opens in July. Walk-up availability is often possible this month, but setting an alert guarantees you get the best site.
What to Expect in December
Temperatures run 25-48°F at Palo Duro Canyon State Park in December. 25-48°F_ADVICE
Best activities: hiking, wildlife viewing, stargazing.
Park Highlights
- ✓Second-largest canyon in the United States
- ✓Lighthouse Trail — 5.75-mile round trip to the park's iconic rock formation
- ✓TEXAS Outdoor Musical (summer) — performed in the Pioneer Amphitheatre since 1966
Tips for December
- →The drive down into the canyon is steep and winding — take it slow, especially with a trailer
- →The Lighthouse Trail is a must-do but exposed — start early in summer and bring a lot of water
Common Questions
Is Palo Duro Canyon State Park crowded in December?
December sees very low crowds at Palo Duro Canyon State Park. Harsh winter conditions.
When do reservations open for December?
Texas state parks open reservations 5 months in advance. For December, the booking window opens in July. Set a Camp.land alert to catch cancellations any time.
What should I pack for December camping?
For December at Palo Duro Canyon State Park (25-48°F): 25-48°F_ADVICE
Get Notified
Set a December Alert
We scan Palo Duro Canyon State Park every 5 minutes and email you the moment a site opens.
Set Free Alert →Free first alert · no credit card
December at a Glance
- Weather
- 25-48°F
- Crowds
- Very Low
- Campsites
- 122
- Activities
- hiking