Texas Cabins Right On The Rim Of A Famous Canyon Promise The Best Views And Outstanding Luxury

The Texas Panhandle is a region that gets overlooked quite a bit by both tourists and residents alike. There aren't any big cities to speak of, and the miles and miles of flat plains can make a drive through the area feel like an eternity. But just 30 minutes south of Amarillo, the topography changes dramatically and suddenly the 'Grand Canyon of Texas' stretches out majestically as far as the eye can see. At 120 miles long, 20 miles wide, and 880 feet deep, Palo Duro Canyon is the second-largest canyon in the United States. It's situated in Palo Duro Canyon State Park, one of the best parks in Texas, with miles of trails and stunning scenery. At the newly opened Rustic Luxury Camp, guests can stay in style on the rim of the canyon in one of six chic, dog-friendly cabins boasting unparalleled views just minutes from the park entrance.

Opened in September of 2024, Rustic Luxury Camp offers guests a more plush experience than the traditional camping and simple cabin accommodations usually associated with a trip to state parks in America. Each of these luxury cabins is a spacious 740 square feet with a downstairs bedroom and an upstairs loft, both with sumptuous queen beds. Wake up to unobstructed canyon views from the large windows. Cook breakfast in the fully-equipped kitchen, and sip your coffee on the private patio while taking in the scenery. 

It's easy to embark on a full day of adventures in the canyon when you're just seven minutes from the park entrance. When you return, you can wash the day off in the roomy walk-in shower and heat up the electric grill on the patio while you enjoy the sunset followed by some epic stargazing. And if you manage to tear yourself away from the view, there's high-speed Wi-Fi, board games, and complimentary YouTube TV and Roku TV to entertain the family. Expect rates of around $200 per night.

Palo Duro Canyon State Park has over 30 miles of trails of all difficulty levels for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The most popular hiking trail is the Lighthouse Trail, which is a two-hour hike of moderate difficulty that takes you to the canyon's most famous sandstone rock formation (aptly named the Lighthouse). No matter which trail you choose, keep in mind that summertime temperatures can reach up to 115 degrees, so stay hydrated on a hike. 

There's nothing like seeing the canyon on horseback, so booking a one-hour guided trail ride with Old West Stables is an absolute must. If you look closely, you might even catch a glimpse of an endangered Texas horned lizard (aka "horny toad") during your ride. Entrance fees are just $8 per person, per day, with kids under 12 allowed in for free.

If you happen to visit during the summer, don't miss the family-friendly "TEXAS Outdoor Musical" at the Pioneer Amphitheater that performs several nights a week starting at 8 p.m. Watch as the actors tell the history of the Panhandle pioneers while incorporating the surrounding cliffs, landscape, and even fireworks into the show. Tickets start at $25 for adults, and admission for kids under five is free. Come early between 6:30 and 8 p.m. for the Chuck Wagon Texas BBQ Dinner, but be sure to reserve your spot by 4 p.m. the day before.