Palo Duro CanyonState Park - Texas |
Palo Duro Canyon is a canyon system of the Caprock Escarpment located in the Texas Panhandle near the cities of Amarillo and Canyon. As the second-largest canyon in the United States, it is roughly 120 mi (190 km) long and has an average width of 6 mi (9.7 km), but reaches a width of 20 mi (32 km) at places. Its depth is around 820 ft (250 m), but in some locations, it increases to 1,000 ft (300 m). Palo Duro Canyon (from the Spanish meaning "hard wood" or, more exactly, "hard stick") has been named "The Grand Canyon of Texas" both for its size and for its dramatic geological features, including the multicolored layers of rock and steep mesa walls similar to those in the Grand Canyon.
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Trails Map of Palo Duro Canyon State Park (SP) in Texas. Published by Texas Parks & Wildlife.
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Official Texas State Parks Guide. Published by Texas Parks & Wildlife.
Official Texas State Parks Guide (español). Published by Texas Parks & Wildlife.
Palo Duro Canyon SP
https://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/palo-duro-canyon
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Palo_Duro_Canyon
Palo Duro Canyon is a canyon system of the Caprock Escarpment located in the Texas Panhandle near the cities of Amarillo and Canyon. As the second-largest canyon in the United States, it is roughly 120 mi (190 km) long and has an average width of 6 mi (9.7 km), but reaches a width of 20 mi (32 km) at places. Its depth is around 820 ft (250 m), but in some locations, it increases to 1,000 ft (300 m). Palo Duro Canyon (from the Spanish meaning "hard wood" or, more exactly, "hard stick") has been named "The Grand Canyon of Texas" both for its size and for its dramatic geological features, including the multicolored layers of rock and steep mesa walls similar to those in the Grand Canyon.
INTERPRETIVE GUIDE
Palo Duro Canyon is a place where erosion shapes the land,
four bioregions intersect, cultures have met and clashed and
change is the only constant. While experiencing the majestic
beauty, take time to appreciate the sights and sounds that have
been lost in most urban settings. Allow yourself to be enriched
by these natural wonders. While doing so:
WELCOME TO “THE GRAND CANYON
OF TEXAS,” THE SECOND LARGEST
CANYON IN NORTH AMERICA. PALO
DURO CANYON STATE PARK
CONSISTS OF 27,173 ACRES IN
RANDALL AND ARMSTRONG
COUNTIES.
THE ORIGINAL
PARKLAND WAS DEEDED BY PRIVATE
OWNERS IN 1933. THE CIVILIAN
CONSERVATION CORPS (CCC) SENT
SEVEN COMPANIES OF YOUNG MEN
Clean up litter to help ensure that this natural and cultural
resource continues. This helps prevent stream pollution, and
keeps the scenery beautiful for other visitors. Feeding wild
animals is prohibited at state parks. By not feeding the animals
you help them to stay on a healthy, natural diet while also
preventing animals from making contact with visitors and
from digging through camp sites looking for food.
Remember it is important not to disturb archeological and
paleontological sites because these artifacts help researchers
link us to our past. Don’t Pocket the Past.
Watch for postings by the Entrance Office to see if there is
a fire ban. Wildlife and resource management will help
preserve our heritage for future generations.
We are the stewards of these great lands and each have a part
to play.
AND MILITARY VETERANS TO PALO
FURTHER READING
DURO CANYON FROM 1933 UNTIL 1937
The Red River Wars by Bret Cruse
Ranald S. Mackenzie on the Texas Frontier by Ernest Wallace
The Story of Palo Duro Canyon by Duane Guy
Charles Goodnight: Pioneer Cowman by Sybil J. O’Rear
Charles Goodnight, Cowman and Plainsman by J. Evetts Haley
TO DEVELOP ROAD ACCESS TO THE
CANYON FLOOR AND CONSTRUCT
THE VISITOR CENTER, CABINS,
SHELTERS, BRIDGES, TRAILS AND
THE
PARK
HEADQUARTERS.
ALTHOUGH MUCH OF THE HARD
Palo Duro Canyon State Park
11450 Park Road 5, Canyon, Texas 79015
(806) 488-2227 • www.tpwd.texas.gov/palodurocanyon
WORK REMAINED TO BE DONE, PALO
DURO CANYON STATE PARK
OFFICIALLY OPENED ON JULY 4, 1934.
Proud Sponsor of Texas Parks
and Wildlife Programs
© 2018 TPWD. PWD BR P4506-0007K (7/18)
In accordance with Texas State Depository Law, this publication is available at
the Texas State Publications Clearinghouse and/or Texas Depository Libraries.
TPWD receives funds from the USFWS. TPWD prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, disability, age, and gender,
pursuant to state and federal law. To request an accommodation or obtain information in an alternative format, please contact TPWD on a Text Telephone
(TDD) at (512) 389-8915 or by Relay Texas at 7-1-1 or (800) 735-2989. If you believe you have been discriminated against by TPWD, please contact
TPWD or the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Office for Diversity and Workforce Management, 5275 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041.
Texas State Parks is a division of the
Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.
PALO DURO
CANYON
STATE PARK
D U R O
C A N Y O N
S T A T E
P A R K
FLORA AND FAUNA
P
alo Duro has a wide variety of
wildlife. The endangered Palo
Duro mouse is found in only
three counties in the Texas panhandle
and nowhere else. Park visitors may
meet mule deer, roadrunners, wild
turkey and cottontails. The threatened Texas
horned lizard is also found in this region. Other wildlife
in the park includes white-tailed deer, coyotes, Barbary
sheep (an introduced species), bobcats and raccoons. Bird
watching is a popular park activity. Golden-fronted
Woodpeckers, Canyon Towhees and Red-tailed Hawks
are a few of the many interesting birds living in the canyon.
“Palo Duro” is Spanish for “hard wood” in reference to the
Rocky Mountain Juniper trees still seen in places in the
canyon. Other common tree species seen in the canyon
include mesquite, red berry juniper, one seed juniper,
cottonwood, willow, western soapberry and hackberry.
Wildflowers and grasses also dot the canyon walls and
floor. Most commonly seen are Tansy aster, Engleman
daisy, Indian blanket, paperflower, Blackfoot daisy,
common sunflower, sideoats gramma (official state grass),
buffalo grass, sand sage, yucca, and prickly pear cactus.
THE BATTLE OF
PALO DURO CANYON
Col. Ranald S. Mackenzie
CHARLES GOODNIGHT
The decisive battle of
the Red River War,
1874-1875, was the
final campaign against
the Southern Plains
Indians.
Charles Goodnight
Led by Colonel Ranald S. Mackenzie, the 4th U.S.
Cavalry descended a narrow zigzag trail down the south
wall into the canyon and attacked the first of five
encampments of Kiowa, Comanche and Cheyenne at
dawn, September 24, 1874.
As the warriors attempted to set
up a defense, the people fled up
the canyon taking only what they
could carry. The Cavalry pursued
them for a distance then returned
to the encampments and burned
the teepees and winter food sto
PARK ACTIVITIES
Park Museum/Museum Store: Visitors may
enjoy the wonderful park museum and store with
quality pottery, jewelry and gifts. Hard-to-find
books are also available. All proceeds benefit the
park. For information, call (806) 488-2506.
Texas Outdoor Musical: “Texas” is performed in
the Pioneer Amphitheater during the summer.
Dinner is available prior to the show, and visitors
may enter the park without paying an entrance
fee after 4 p.m. For more information or to
purchase tickets, please call (806) 655-2181.
Old West Stables: Experience Palo Duro
Canyon as the pioneers did, on horseback. Horse
rides are available. The stables also feature
souvenirs and a snack bar. You may reach the
stables at (806) 488-2180.
Palo Duro Trading Post: Stop by for hot meals
and cold drinks. Camping supplies, fuel and
groceries are also available. The trading post
also offers souvenirs. For information, call
(806) 488-2821.
Lone Star Interpretive Theater: Park programs
are presented throughout the year at the Lone
Star Interpretive Theater (near the Hackberry
Campground). Education tours may be reserved
by calling (806) 488-2227, ext. 2067.
For more information, visit
www.tpwd.texas.gov/palodurocanyon
or www.palodurocanyon.com
Palo Duro Canyon State Park
11450 Park Road 5
Canyon, Texas 79015
(806) 488-2227
© 2016 Texas Parks and Wildlife Department
PWD BR P4506-007L (8/16)
In accordance with Texas State Depository Law, this publication is available at
the Texas State Publications Clearinghouse and/or Texas Depository Libraries.
TPWD receives funds from the USFWS. TPWD prohibits discrimination on the basis
of race, color, religion, national origin, disability, age, and gender, pursuant to state
and federal law. To request an accommodation or obtain information in an alternative
format, please contact TPWD on a Text Telephone (TDD) at (512) 389-8915 or by
Relay Texas at 7-1-1 or (800) 735-2989. If you believe you have been discriminated
against by TPWD, please contact TPWD or the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Office for
Diversity and Workforce Management, 5275 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041.
INFORMATION GUIDE TO
PALO DURO
CANYON
S T A T E
P A R K
Welcome to the “Grand Canyon of Texas.”
Palo Duro Canyon State Park is a myriad of
recreational opportunities, rich history and
colorful geology. Visitors from all over the
world have visited Texas’ second-largest
park, which officially opened on July 4, 1934.
Palo Duro Canyon is 120 miles long and 800 feet
deep, and it is the second-largest canyon in the
United States. The canyon began forming less than
1 million years ago when the Prairie Dog Town
Fork of the Red River first carved its way through
the Southern High Plains. The rocks expose a geologic story which began approximately 250 million
years ago. Some of the oldest rock layers in the
canyon belong to the Quartermaster Formation.
These rocks, which are located at the bottom of the
canyon, are noted for their bright red claystone and
white gypsum. Next, the Tecovas Formation can be
seen with its yellow, gray and lavender mudstone.
The sandstone and coarse gravel of the Trujillo
Formation can be seen as you further ascend the
canyon. The next layer of rocks are from the Ogallala Formation with sand, silt, clay and caliche.
HISTORY
Prehistoric Native Americans made use of the
canyon for at least 12,000 years. Historic tribes in
the area included Kiowa, Comanche, Apache and
Cheyenne. In 1874, during the Red River Wars, Col.
R.S. Mackenzie was sent into the area to move the
Native Americans to Oklahoma. Col. Mackenzie
and the 4th Cavalry were able to capture over 1,400
horses belonging to the tribes. Cut off from their
transportation, the tribes later surrendered. In 1876,
Charles Goodnight entered the canyon and opened
the JA Ranch, which supported over 100,000 cattle.
PLANTS
Palo Duro is Spanish for “hard wood,” in reference
to the Rocky Mountain juniper trees found in the
canyon. Other common tree species seen in the
canyon include mesquite, cottonwood, willow,
western soap-berry and hackberry. Wildflower
and grass species also dot the canyon walls and
floor. Most commonly seen are Indian blanket,
star thistle, sunflower, paperflower, blackfoot
daisy, tansy aster, sideoats grama, buffalograss,
sage brush, yucca and prickly pear cactus.
WILDLIFE
Palo Duro Canyon has a wide variety of
wildlife. Park visitors may encounter mule deer,
roadrunners, wild turkey and cottontails. Other
wildlife in the park includes coyotes, barbary
sheep, bobcats and western diamondback rattlesnakes. Bird-watching is a popular activity in the
park. Painted buntings, canyon wrens and redtailed hawks are a few of the many interesting
birds living in the canyon.
» DO NOT FEED THE ANIMALS.
PARK SAFETY
Flash Flooding: During rains, Palo Duro Canyon
can flood over a short period of time. Please
observe the following:
• Monitor the depth gauges at the water crossings.
If the water exceeds six inches, DO NOT CROSS.
• Never try to
Palo Duro Canyon
#TxStateParks
State Park
#BetterOutside
@TPWDparks
@texasparkswildlife
/texasparksandwildlife
TexasStateParks.org/App
LEGEND
Texas State Parks Store
Headquarters
Books, jewelry, art, collectibles
and memorabilia for sale in the
Visitor Center.
Park Store
Restrooms
Showers
Fortress Cliff
Camp Area
ALTERNATE
PARK
ROAD
5
Wolfberry
Day Use Area
Youth
Camp
Wolfberry Day Use Area
Juniper
Camp Area
Partners in Palo Duro Canyon
Foundation
Primitive Campsites
To find out more, ask at the Visitor
Center or call (806) 488-2506
or write
Partners in Palo Duro Canyon
11450 Park Road 5
Canyon, TX 79015
Equestrian Sites
Water and Electric Sites
Cabin (with bathroom)
Cabin (without bathroom)
Group Camp
N
5
4
1
Tasajillo
Pavilion
3
2
4
2
3
Soapberry
Day Use Area
Visitor
Center/Store
Cow Camp
Cabins
Headquarters/
Entrance Gate
4
1
• CHECK OUT for all cabins is 11 a.m. CHECK OUT time for
campers is 2 p.m. or renew permit by 9 a.m. (pending site availability).
Old West
Stables
3
2
• Public consumption or display of any alcoholic beverage is prohibited.
• A maximum of eight people permitted per campsite. Day use visitors must
leave the park by 10 p.m. Quiet time is from 10 p.m. – 6 a.m.
1
Cow Camp Cabins
Lone Star
Interpretive
Theater
Pioneer
Amphitheater
L
S
• GRAY WATER AND BLACK WATER MUST BE DISCHARGED ONLY AT DUMP STATIONS.
• Only one unit per site is permitted to hook up to utilities.
• Pets must be on 6-foot leash. You must pick up after them. No pets allowed in buildings.
Group Pavilion
Group Hall
Amphitheater
G
Scenic Overlook
Historic Marker
Hackberry
Camp Area
SPEED
LIMIT
(30 amp service)
30
• Excess parking fee is required at campsites with more than two vehicles (including trailers).
• Campsite must be kept clean; all trash must be picked up before you leave.
Trash dumpsters are conveniently located in all camping loops.
Picnic Area
Riding Stable
Rim Cabins
PLEASE NOTE
Dump Station
TEXAS
Visitor Interpretive Center
Flash flooding conditions
may exist at the six river
crossings on Park Road.
Cactus
Camp Area
(30/50 amp service)
217
Juniper
Camp Area
WARNING:
Mesquite
Camp Area
Water Spigot
To Canyon
and Amarillo
6
Wildlife Viewing
Wheelchair Accessible
MPH
Wildlife
Viewing
Blind
PARK
ROAD
Trading
Post
• Valid permit is required on windshield of each vehicle in park.
All vehicles are to remain on pavement.
Mack Dick
Group Pavilion
Sagebrush
Camp Area
• Horses prohibited in campgrounds and on roadways.
(30/50 amp service)
• Feeding wildlife is prohibited.
• Collection of plants, firewood and rocks is prohibited.
5
11450 Park Road 5
Canyon, TX 79015
(806) 488-2227
Seasonal hours – check with park.
TPWD receives funds from the USFWS. TPWD prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, disability, age, and gender, pursuant to state and federal law. To request an
accommodation or obtain information in an alternative format, please contact TPWD on a Text Telephone (TDD) at (512) 389-8915 or by Relay Texas at 7-1-1 or (800) 735-2989. If you believe you
have been discriminated against by TPWD, please contact TPWD or the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Office for Diversity and Workforce Management, 5275 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041.
© 2019 TPWD PWD MP P4506-007G (2/19)
Texas State Parks is a division of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.
PARK RESERVATIONS
TexasStateParks.org ParquesDeTexas.org
(512) 389-8900
Proud Sponsor of Texas State Parks
Palo Duro Canyon State Park Trails Map
Park safety emergency number:
(806) 488-2227
Sheriff’s dispatch number:
(806) 468-5800
1
3400
5
0.23
341 1 '
0
340
31 00
320
0
4
LEGEND
Triassic Trail
0.2 miles
(Hiking Only)
Pioneer Nature Trail
0.5 mi.
(Hiking Only)
3200
6
Upper
2890'
Comanche
Trail
3.3 mi.
31
00
34
00
Kiowa Trail
1.4 mi.
Contour intervals 10 feet. No claims are made to the accuracy of the data or its
suitability to a particular use. Map compiled by Texas State Parks staff.
31 00
00
33
2.46
2900
00
32
Roadrunner
00
POINTS OF INTEREST
(GPS coordinates shown in degrees, minutes, seconds)
0.1
4
7
0.8
32
00
29
00
3283'
32
00
34
00
0.1
6
31
00
3200
0.0
5
Cactus Camp Area
0.2
2
31 00
3200
0.08
3200
0.5
8
Mesquite Camp Area
6
WILDLIFE VIEWING BLIND
34° 58' 25.320" N 101° 40' 35.148" W
Relax and watch some of the park’s natural residents.
7
DUGOUT 34° 57' 49.392" N 101° 40' 16.752" W
Take a peek into the life of a 19th-century cowboy.
8
LIGHTHOUSE 34° 56' 11.220" N 101° 41' 48.264" W
The symbol of Palo Duro Canyon State Park.
9
ROCK GARDEN 34° 56' 25.476" N 101° 39' 6.408" W
Take a hike through an ancient landslide.
10
THE BIG CAVE 34° 56' 2.544" N 101° 38' 40.704" W
There are no outlaws in this hole in the wall.
30
00
3356'
3200
0.
37
2800
Equestrian Camp Area
3300
0.03
0.1
7
3300
3400
3400
CCC FIREPLACE 34° 59' 5.208" N 101° 41' 29.832" W
Visit the lone sentinel from a once-thriving CCC camp.
3285'
3000
31 00
3200
10
00
34
5
2841 '
331 5'
WolfberryMulti-Use Area
00
33
320
0
330
0
3200
31 00
Trail
1.1 mi.
0.21
0.39
33
00
3000
0.57
4
3300
3371 '
9 Juniper/Riverside
0.0
3308'
32
00
2842'
0.07
Juniper/Cliffside Trail
2.9 mi.
(Multi-use Trail)
3300
Tub Springs
Draw Spur
0.5 mi.
3200
Sunflower Trail
1.2 mi.
3295'
3269'
BRIDGES ON UPPER CCC TRAIL
34° 58' 52.320" N 101° 41' 32.100" W
Inspect the handiwork of the CCC craftsmen.
0.7
00
30
4
3403'
Duck Pond Spur
0.2 mi.
3200
2.7
3
EL CORONADO LODGE
34° 58' 45.192" N 101° 41' 29.436" W
Learn a little history of the park and maybe do
some shopping.
3200
3200
0.16
0.38
0.19
8
Rock Garden
Trail
Fortress Cliff Camp Area
2.4 miles
4
0.9
31 63'
32
00
00
31
280
0
3000
00
31
Lighthouse Trail
2.72 miles
(Multi-use Trail)
00
32
0.0
2
3200
331 9'
1.39
1.9
0
340
1.16
3200
Capitol Peak Trail
3.5 miles
(Biking Only)
32
00
1.0
3
0.43
3000
3474'
0.15
Rojo Grande Trail
1.2 mi.
2880'
0.08
1
0.5
8
0.8
3
3300
2830'
3400
1.0
0.4
3
0.7
CCC OVERLOOK AT VISITOR CENTER
34° 58' 48.684" N 101° 41' 27.672" W
Marvel at a grand view of the park before descending
into the canyon.
0.1
9
0.23
30
00
6
29
00
30
00
3300
0
290
3400
2.1
Rylander Fortress
Cliff Trail
3.7 mi.
Fortress 0.
62
Rim
Spur
0.61
0.2 mi.
Scrub Oak Spur
0.23 miles
3400
0.08
0.51
32
00
0.3
1
0.27
0
290
0.1
3
3000
00
30
3422'
Lower
Comanche
Trail
4.4 mi.
2
0.46
30
00
2889'
5
1. 3
31 58'
00
29
00
29
00
29
31 00
Paseo
del Rio
Trail
1.0 mi.
1.02
Soapberry Day
Use Area
29
00
3452'
0.2
6
Soapberry Spur
0.3 miles
2871 '
0.9
6
3300
0.33
9
3200
4
340
0
Fractures in
the Rock Spur
0.3 mi.
0.64
3400
0.0
2.6
LONGHORN PASTURE
34° 59’ 04.380”N 101° 42’ 04.572”W
Look for longhorns from Texas’ Official Longhorn Herd.
0.0
0.43
3209'
1
3400
32
00
Little Fox
Canyon Trail
1.4 mi.
0.04
3000
7
2950'
2900
0.23
31
00
31 0
0
3400
3200
3265'
Givens, Spicer, Lowry Trail
3.1 mi.
3200
00
30
8
0.0
Hackberry Camp Area
0.16
320
0
340
0
0.6
0.8
1
3391 '
In accordance with Texas State Depository Law, this publication is available at the Texas State Publications Clearinghouse and/or Texas Depository
Libraries.
3445'
© 2018 Texas Parks and Wildlife Department PWD MP P4506-0007P (7/18)
2800
2900
3469'
2800
0.4
2800
0.2
3462'
1.4
2
Equestrian Trail
1.6 miles
(Equestrian Only)
2900
29
00
31
00
3456'
00
33
Texas State Parks is a division of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.
34
00
TPWD receives funds from the USFWS. TPWD prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, disability, age, and gender, pursuant to state and federal law. To request an accommodation or obtain information in an alternative format, please contact TPWD on a Text
3462'
3468'
Telephone (TDD) at (512) 389-8915 or by Relay Texas at 7-1-1 or (800) 735-2989. If you believe you have been discriminated
against by TPWD, please contact TPWD or the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Office for Diversity and Workforce Management, 5275 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041.
2922'
29
00
28
00
341 0'
0
300
000
0
Parking
Wildlife Viewing
Campground
Amphitheater
Scenic Overlook
All trails are hiking and biking unless otherwise indicated by icons.
0
300
00
34
3385'
Sagebrush Camp Area
0.13
3394'
0.16
0.25
Goodnight Peak
Scenic Loop
0.4 mi.
(Hiking Only)
0.49
2941 '
00
34
2900
0.33
0
0.0 .05
2
4
0.0
4
0.2
0
330
3
34
00
2 C
.3
PALO DURO CANYON STATE PARK
Lighthouse
Trail
Welcome to the Lighthouse Trail, the most popular trail
in the park. Learn as you hike. Use this guide to make
your own discoveries at the trail markers.
Study the signs of DEHYDRATION
and HEAT EXHAUSTION from
brochure in yellow mailbox.
Both can lead to death. It is not a joke!
•
•
•
•
•
•
Thermometer 80 or higher, don’t start
Take 1 gallon of water per person and pet
Pace yourself
Rest at benches and shade shelters
Check pets regularly for signs of stress
Drink, drink, drink
ACCESSIBLE TRAIL INFORMATION
USER GROUPS
Trail Length: 5.5 miles round-trip
Elevation Change: 176.5 feet
GRADE
WIDTH
Maximum: 18.6%
Minimum: 4 feet
SURFACE
OTHER HAZARDS
Loose Rock
Steep Slopes
Natural (dirt)
PWD BR P4506-0007Q (8/14)
Mile marker. Straight ahead is Capitol Peak. A small
pinnacle sits on the end. Do you think it resembles an
Indian sitting with a blanket wrapped around himself?
Do you have a suggestion for a name? The peak sits
atop the layer known as the Spanish Skirts due to the
colors of lavender, amber and red. Can you see why
they are called the Spanish Skirts? Do they look like
the dancing skirt a Spanish dancer might have worn?
The first rest stop and shade shelter is a short walk
ahead. When you get there, drink water.
.4
At this point you will begin to see small “caves” forming
in the lower red layer. They are caused by water drainage
and are not true caves. They are unstable, difficult to
reach and not suitable for entering.
.8
Rest stop. How is your hydration going? Drink, drink,
drink. What about your pet?
1.0
Straight ahead is the eroded upper red layer. Many
common names abound, but there is no official name.
What would you name it?
1.2
Shade shelter and rest stop. Take advantage of it and
rest a while. Check your water supply.
1.3
The eroded rock sitting atop the Spanish Skirts on your
left is sometimes called Tugboat Rock. Does it look like
a tugboat to you?
1.4
View Point. Do you see the Lighthouse? Wow, what a
sight! Does it look 312 feet tall? Have you walked far
enough? Check your water supply.
Start back now if you or your pet are tired.
1.7
Short walk to rest stop bench. You are almost halfway.
Check your pet. Heavy panting is a sign of heat stress.
High temperatures and the hot ground are deadly for
you and your pet.
2.0
Look straight ahead at the sandstone rock layer.
How would you describe it? Would you want to give
it a name?
2.2
Short distance to rest stop. From the rest stop you can
see Castle Peak, sitting to the left of the Lighthouse.
Do you think it resembles a castle?
2.4
With a beautiful view of Castle Peak on the left look at
the unusual rock formation on its right. Do you see the
layered boulders that slid down over the years due to
erosion? Wouldn’t it be impressive to actually watch
one of those come down?
Continue to the end of the trail where you will find
a picnic table. If you have to see the Lighthouse up
close and personal, take the route that goes up to your
left. You will find it very steep in places and has loose
rocks and dirt. Be very cautious; many accidents occur
during this scramble. It can take two hours or more for
a rescue team to get you out safely.
After you have rested start your trek back. Remember
to stop at the benches along the way and continue
drinking your water. Was it worth the hike?
TEXAS PARKS AND WILDLIFE
BIRDS
OF
PALO DURO CANYON
STATE PA RK
A FIELD CHECKLIST
2012
In 1983, the Texas Legislature created the Special Nongame
and Endangered Species Conservation Fund. This fund may be
used for nongame wildlife and endangered species research
and conservation, habitat acquisition and development and
dissemination of information pertaining to nongame management. Money for this fund is obtained through private donations
and sale of nongame wildlife art prints and stamps. This fund
now gives Texans a unique opportunity to help support this
state’s valuable and sensitive nongame resources. Your individual
contributions and purchases of nongame art prints and stamps
will help determine the level of nongame conservation activities
in Texas. For more information call toll-free (1-800-792-1112) or
contact: Nongame and Endangered Species Program, Texas
Parks and Wildlife Department, 4200 Smith School Road,
Austin, Texas 78744.
citation
Seyffert, Kenneth and Mark Hassell. March 2012. Birds of Palo Duro
Canyon State Park: a field checklist. Natural Resource Program, Texas
Parks and Wildlife, Austin, Texas.
Cover: Illustration of Mississippi Kite by Rob Fleming.
INTRODUCTION
P
alo Duro Canyon State Park, in Randall and Armstrong
counties, is located on the eastern edge of the Texas
High Plains (Llano Estacado). The Prairie Dog Town
Fork of the Red River carved the rugged and scenic Palo Duro
Canyon within which developed an amazing variety of habitats.
Avian habitats of special interest to birders include: RIPARIAN
WOODLANDS along the Prairie Dog Town Fork of the Red
River, where the Golden-fronted Woodpecker is in constant
noisy attendance the entire year and where Mississippi Kite
and Bullock’s Oriole regale the visitor with their grace and
color in summer; GRASSLANDS and BRUSHLANDS with their
superb songsters, such as the Northern Cardinal and Bewick’s
Wren, and the most colorful of birds, the Painted Bunting;
small stands of EMERGENT VEGETATION or PONDS along the
wettest portions of the creek, where many different species
come to drink and bathe both in summer and winter; the open
WOODED SCARPS and header drainages of Palo Duro Canyon,
where Canyon and Rock Wrens are to be found along with
Cliff Swallows with their earthen nests tucked away under the
rocky outcroppings; and the MESQUITE/GRASSLANDS of the
upper levels, with their melodious Western Meadowlarks and
Lark Sparrows. The park offers a haven to a diverse spectrum
of species in winter, ranging from the Bald Eagle to the most
elegant of birds, the Mountain Bluebird.
This checklist, compiled by Kenneth Seyffert, includes only
those species which have been observed either within the park
boundaries or have been observed flying overhead. Nomenclature
and organization follow the A.O.U. Checklist of North American
Birds (7th edition, 1998) as currently supplemented.
Please report new sightings to the Natural Resource
Program, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, 4200 Smith
School Road, Austin, Texas 78744.
1
Please help us protect the natural avian communities in our parks
by refraining from using playback tapes of bird songs. Frequent
use of these tapes disrupts essential territorial behavior and may
lead to nest failure. Thank you for your cooperation.
LEGEND
Seasons
Sp = spring (March – May)
S = summer (June – August)
F = fall (September – November)
W = winter (December – February)
Abundance
A = Abundant, always present and observed, expect large numbers
in proper habitat and season
C = Common, always encountered in proper habitat and season,
numbers may vary from low to high
U = Uncommon, usually present in proper habitat and season but
may be overlooked, never common or abundant
R = Rare, seldom recorded, not expected each season as designated,
may not be recorded every year
IT = irregular Transient, not every year or day but may occur in
numbers, usually flying overhead
I = Irruptive/Irregular, invasion species which may be absent
some seasons/years, abundant others
V = May be observed only once in five years or more, not expected
X = Accidental, not be expected, but recorded at least once
* nests — nests or newly fledged young with adults observed
+ probably nests — needs confirmation
2
CHECKLIST
Sp
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
S
F
W
Snow Goose.................................................... IT IT IT
Ross’s Goose................................................... IT IT IT
Cackling Goose.............................................. IT IT IT
Canada Goose................................................ IT IT IT
Wood Duck...................................................... I V V
Gadwall............................................................ I I
American Wigeon.......................................... I I
Mallard........................
TE X A S P A R K S A N D W I L DL IF E
Junior Naturalist
Program
PALO DURO CANYON STATE PARK
SPR ING, SUMME R AN D FA LL
Junior Naturalist Program
5- to 7-year-olds must complete four activities out of seven.
8- to 12-year-olds must complete all seven.
ACTIVITIES
1. Visit the Interpretive Center and name three animals that
currently live in Palo Duro Canyon.
1) ___________________________________________________
2) ___________________________________________________
3) ___________________________________________________
2. While in the Interpretive Center, locate and name the four
geologic layers in Palo Duro Canyon.
1) ___________________________________________________
2) ___________________________________________________
3) ___________________________________________________
4) ___________________________________________________
3. Take a hike on any trail and name four interesting things you
saw on your hike.
Name of trail: __________________________________________
1) ___________________________________________________
2) ___________________________________________________
3) ___________________________________________________
4) ___________________________________________________
4. Name the river that runs through the canyon and is believed
to have aided in the formation of the canyon.
______________________________________________________
5. Harvester ants (red ants) live underground in circular-shaped
beds that are found throughout the park. They are the main
food of a small, threatened lizard. For this reason, we do not
destroy their homes. See if you can discover the name of
this lizard.
______________________________________________________
6. There are three historical markers in the park. One is close to
the entrance, another at the Visitor Center and another at the
end of the park at the turn-around. Pick one and tell what it
is about.
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
7. Name the famous natural landmark that everyone wants to
see in Palo Duro Canyon State Park.
______________________________________________________
We hope you have enjoyed your adventure in becoming a
Junior Naturalist at Palo Duro Canyon State Park. Now that
your tasks have been completed, find any ranger and have
your paper checked and signed.
Ranger Signature
___________________________________________
Have your booklet checked by a staff member and receive a
sleeve patch. They may be picked up at the Visitor Center or
the Entrance Office.
Texas Tracks
Do you know them?
4200 Smith School Road • Austin, Texas 78744
www.tpwd.texas.gov
Dispersal of this publication conforms with Texas State Documents Depository Law, and it is
available at Texas State Publications Clearinghouse and/or Texas Depository Libraries.
© 2013 TPWD
PWD BK P4506-007M (11/13)
TPWD receives federal assistance from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and other federal agencies and is subject to Title VI of the
Civil Rights Act of 1964, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, the Age
Discrimination Act of 1975, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, and state anti-discrimination laws which prohibit discrimination the basis of race, color, national origin, age, sex or disability. If you believe that you have been discriminated against in any TPWD
program, activity or facility, or need more information, please contact Civil Rights Coordinator for Public Access, U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service, 4401 N. Fairfax Drive, Mail Stop: MBSP-4020, Arlington, VA 22203.
-Official-
FACILITIES
Get the Mobile App:
MAPS
ACTIVITIES
TexasStateParks.org/app
T O Y O T A
T U N D R A
The Toyota Tundra is built to explore the great outdoors.
No matter what the weekend throws at you, your Tundra
takes it on with ease. | toyota.com/tundra
Official Vehicle of
the Texas Parks &
Wildlife Foundation
CONTENTS
4 100 Years of Texas Parks
6 Parks Near You
8
90 Checklist
DIRECTORY
TEXAS PARKS AND WILDLIFE DEPARTMENT
52
68
20
38
60
30
84
68
David Yoskowitz, Ph.D. Executive Director
Rodney Franklin State Parks Director
Mischelle Diaz Communications Director
TPW COMMISSION
Arch “Beaver” Aplin, III, Chairman
Lake Jackson
Dick Scott, Vice-Chairman Wimberley
James E. Abell Kilgore
Oliver J. Bell Cleveland
Paul L. Foster El Paso
Anna B. Galo Laredo
Jeffery D. Hildebrand Houston
Robert L. “Bobby” Patton, Jr. Fort Worth
Travis B. “Blake” Rowling Dallas
T. Dan Friedkin, Chairman-Emeritus Houston
Lee Marshall Bass, Chairman-Emeritus Fort Worth
52 Panhandle
Plains
48 State Parks Map
Special thanks to Toyota and advertisers, whose
generous support made this guide possible.
Texas State Parks is a division of the Texas Parks
and Wildlife Department.
Cover illustration: Brad Woodard, bravethewoods.com
Texas State Parks Official Guide, Nineteenth Edition © TPWD PWD BK P4000-000A (3/23)
TPWD receives funds from DHS and USFWS. TPWD prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, national origin (including limited English
proficiency), disability, age, and gender, pursuant to state and federal law. If you believe you have been discriminated against by TPWD, visit tpwd.texas.
gov/nondiscrimination or call (512) 389-4800 for information on filing a complaint. To obtain information in an alternative format, contact TPWD on a Text
Telephone (TTY) at (512) 389-8915, by Relay Texas at 7-1-1, (800) 735-2989, or by email at accessibility@tpwd.texas.gov. If you speak a language other than
English and need assistance, email lep@tpwd.texas.gov. You can also contact Department of the Interior Office of Diversity, Inclusion, and Civil Rights, 1849 C
Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20240, and/or U.S. Department of Homeland Security Office for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties (CRCL), Mail Stop #0190 2707,
Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave., S.E. Washington, D.C. 20528.
In accordance with Texas State Depository Law, this publication is available at the Texas State Publications Clearinghouse and/or Texas
Depository Libraries.
WELCOME
from Rodney Franklin, State Parks Director
This year is very special for Texas State Parks: We are
celebrating our 100-year anniversary in 2023. More and
more Texans are discovering the beauty of State Parks and
exploring the outdoors in new and adventurous ways. Our
teams across the state are incredibly excited to welcome
outdoor enthusiasts, especially those who have yet to
discover what our parks have to offer. The variety of Texas’ lands is unmatched; from
the mountains of west Texas to the Gulf shores, the Texas State Park system celebrates
and preserves the natural and cultural treasures that make Texas such a special place.
The 640,000-plus acres that make up the state park system are nearly as diverse as
the people of Texas. Since 1923, our mission has been to help connect our visitors with
the outdoors. As we honor those who have come before us, I invite a new generation to
be a part of the story of the lands that connect us all.
There is more to enjoy in our parks than you know, so please join us in our celebrations
and activities. Every day we look for new and better ways to ensure your state parks are
welcoming to every Texan, regardless of their background or experience being outside.
I hope you’ll visit soon and often, while bringing
your friends and family along. YOU are a natural and
we’re looking forward to celebrating the 100-year
anniversary of state parks with you!
WHAT’S NEW IN STATE PARKS
Galveston Island State Park reopened the
beachside of the park with a new headquarters,
campsites, restrooms, and more.
Bastrop State Park unveiled an extensive new
group of trails, the “Tree Army Trails,” many of
which are ADA-accessible.
Improvements and major repairs are planned for
Indian Lodge, Tyler, Inks Lake, Cedar Hill, South
Llano River, Eisenhower and several other state parks
All-terrain “GRIT” wheelchairs are now available at 10 parks with more adaptive
equipment on the way to help people of all abilities experience Texas State
Parks. Learn more about our accessibility efforts, page 14.
More information: TexasStateParks.org/whatsnew
100 Years of Texas Parks
The crown jewels of
Texas road trips started
as an unfunded wish list
before the Depression.
Back in 1923, Governor Pat Neff realized
rising numbers of new car travelers
needed places to camp overnight on
multi-day trips. Neff convinced the state
legislature to create a six-member State
Parks Board, half men, half women.
Isabella, the Governor’s mother, and her
family donated acreage on the Leon
Guía de
Parques
INSTALACIONES
Descarga la
Aplicacíon Móvil
MAPAS
ACTIVIDADES
texasstateparks.org/app
¡Los niños
entran gratis!
La entrada es gratis para los niños de
12 años y menores.
Encuentra un parque:
parquesdetexas.org
Contenido
Estero Llano Grande SP
2 Actividades y Programas
4 Parques Cercanos
6 Lugares para Quedarse
8 Tarifas y Pases
9 Directorio
10 Mapa de Parques
18 Instalaciones y Actividades
BIENVENIDO
Rodney Franklin, Director de Parques
Texas tiene algunas de las tierras públicas más diversas del país, con una
gran riqueza natural y cultural. La vida silvestre está por todas partes,
los paisajes florecen con belleza, y la historia es abundante. Sus parques
estatales son parte del legado que nos enorgullece. La gente de Texas ayuda a asegurar ese
legado para las generaciones futuras al visitar y ser voluntarios. ¡Gracias!
Estos más de 630,000 acres exhiben algunos de los grandes tesoros del estado. Los parques
nos ayudan a crear recuerdos con la familia y a encontrar consuelo en la naturaleza. Los
parques fortalecen las economías locales y unen a las comunidades. Sobre todo, los parques
nos permiten pasar tiempo al aire libre para recargar energías, estar saludables y relajarnos a
nuestra manera.
Les invito a disfrutar de sus parques estatales,
explorando lo mejor de Texas con amigos y familia. Los
parques están aquí para todos. Nos pertenecen a todos.
¡Visítelos, diviértase y ayude a protegerlos para siempre!
Foto de portada: Estero Llano State Park, Chase Fountain
© 2021 TPWD PWD BK P4000-000A (5/21)
TPWD recibe fondos del Servicio de Pesca y Vida Silvestre de EE.UU. (USFWS
por sus siglas en ingles). TPWD prohíbe la discriminación por raza, color, religión,
nacionalidad de origen, discapacidad, edad y género, conforme la ley estatal y
federal. Para solicitar un acomodo especial u obtener información en un formato
alternativo, por favor contacte a TPWD en un Teléfono de Texto (TTY) al (512) 3898915 ó por medio de “Relay Texas” al 7-1-1 ó (800) 735-2989 ó por email a accessibility@tpwd.texas.gov. Si usted cree que TPWD ha discriminado en su contra, favor
de comunicarse con TPWD, 4200 Smith School Road, Austin, TX 78744, o con el
Servicio de Pesca y Vida Silvestre de EE.UU., Office for Diversity and Workforce
Management, 5275 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041.
De acuerdo con la Ley de Depósito del Estado de Texas, esta publicación está disponible en el centro de Distribución de Publicaciones del Estado de Texas y/o las
Bibliotecas de Depósito de Texas.
ACTIVIDADES Y PROGRAMAS
¿Qué puedo hacer en
los parques estatales?
¡Disfruta de un día de campo, visita un sitio histórico
o elige entre muchas otras opciones!
Bicicletas
Pedalea a lo largo de los
parques a cualquier velocidad,
en cualquier estilo, con cualquier grupo. Elige las rutas, el
tipo de terreno y las distancias que cumplan con tu zona
de confort.
Caminatas
Empieza con un circuito más
corto, avanza a terrenos más
difíciles o únete a una caminata guiada.
Pescar
Puedes pescar sin licencia en
tantos como 70 parques estatales. Muchos parques ofrecen
equipo para pescar a manera
de préstamo y eventos especiales para aprender a pescar.
Barcos
Renta canoas y kayacs y
explora uno de los senderos
acuáticos en Texas.
Nadar
Animales Silvestres
Acampar
Descubre aves, mamíferos y
plantas que tienen su hogar en
Texas. Muchos parques tienen
señalamientos y listados que
te ayudan a aprender más.
Encuentra un lugar que cumpla
con lo que quieres. Prueba
nuevas recetas, comparte historias favoritas y disfruta de
las estrellas.
2
Más información y reservaciones: parquesdetexas.org
Escape del calor en arroyos,
ríos, lagos, manantiales, piletas
y playas del mar.
Tu seguridad en el agua
es muy importante. Lleva
el chaleco salvavidas.
Aprende a nadar. Guarda
a los niños.
(512) 389-8900
¡Pregunta en tu parque cuáles
están disponibles!
Los niños
de 12 años
y menores
entran
GRATIS
Cielos Estrellados
Escapa de las luces de la ciudad y goza de
maravillosas vistas del cielo que no encontrarás
en ninguna otra parte. Ven a una fiesta de
estrellas o toma una excursión de constelaciones auto-guiada.
Familias en la Naturaleza
Elige un taller o diseña tu propia aventura. ¡Monta
una tienda de campaña, cocina al exterior, prende
una fogata y juega al exterior! Nosotros te
Toma una publicación gratuita de actividades o
pregunta por los paquetes gratuitos con los parques proporcionamos todo el equipo. No es necesario
tener experiencia.
participantes. Usa los binoculares, lupas, libros de
bosquejos y libros de guías para explorar el parque.
Mochilas para Exploradores
Soldados Búfalo de Texas
Descubre la historia con cuentos, vestuarios y
herramientas. Sigue la pista de un animal, pesca con
caña, cocina sobre una fogata, visita los fuertes y más.
Adéntrate en las historias de vida de aquellos que
sirvieron valientemente en los primeros regimientos
Áfrico-Americanos de las Fuerzas Armadas.
!
Seguridad en el Parque
Ten cuidado con el agua
Pre