Cedar Canyon Campground
4.4913 reviewsP.O. Box 1460, Fritch, TX, 79036, USA
Cedar Canyon Campground
$3.00 - $8.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Recreation use fees range from $3 to $8 depending on the specific activity and method of reservation, as outlined under Recreation.gov policies.
About this campground
Escape to Cedar Canyon Campground, where endless sandy beaches meet the sparkling waters of Lake Meredith. This primitive camping paradise invites adventurers to claim their perfect spot along the shoreline, with no designated sites limiting your choices. As you venture off the pavement onto sandy trails, you'll discover a true back-to-basics experience where the landscape shifts with the seasons—firm and welcoming in dry weather, yet demanding respect and caution when rain transforms the terrain into challenging soft sand.
The campground caters to beach and primitive camping experiences. It does not have designated campsites, and the environment is more suited for those seeking a rugged, open-air camping experience.
Historical SignificanceWhile Cedar Canyon's recorded history may be sparse, its story is written in the timeless rhythms of wind, water, and sand that have shaped this landscape for millennia.
Weather and SeasonsMother Nature paints Cedar Canyon with dramatic brushstrokes throughout the year. The valley's natural architecture channels powerful winds that sweep across the landscape, creating an ever-changing atmosphere. Summer transforms this desert oasis into a furnace, with temperatures soaring to an incredible 116°F—perfect for those who crave the intensity of true desert camping. When rare rains grace the area, the sandy ground transforms, reminding visitors to tread carefully as the terrain becomes notably softer and more challenging to navigate.
ElevationThe campground's elevation remains one of its mysteries, adding to the sense of discovery that awaits each visitor to this lakeside retreat.
Natural Features and SceneryNestled in an intimate cove between the legendary Fritch Fortress and Sanford-Yake campgrounds, Cedar Canyon unfolds like a hidden treasure along Lake Meredith's shores. Sandy beaches stretch invitingly toward the freshwater expanse, creating a natural playground for swimming, fishing, and lakeside relaxation. The generous open spaces beckon groups to spread out and claim their own piece of paradise, whether for peaceful solitude or lively gatherings under the vast Texas sky.
Geological RegionCedar Canyon showcases the stunning interplay between desert and water that defines Lake Meredith National Recreation Area. This protected cove features pristine sandy beaches that gently slope into the freshwater lake, creating a unique ecosystem where the arid landscape meets aquatic abundance. The geological story here speaks of ancient rivers, wind-carved formations, and the human ingenuity that created this remarkable reservoir in the heart of the Texas Panhandle.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly detailed for this campground.
Sites SizeCamping sites are open and located on the beach. There are no individual campsites, and space availability may vary.
Sites PrivacyThe campground does not have individual campsites, leading to minimal privacy as campers share the open beach area.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid bringing large rigs to the sandy beach area due to potential difficulty navigating soft terrain. Select areas closer to potable water and restrooms for convenience.
Best CampsitesNo individual campsites; camping occurs on sandy beaches.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
No designated check-in times due to first-come, first-served policy.
Check-out
No designated check-out times due to first-come, first-served policy.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Primitive beach camping allows flexible group arrangements
- no specific guest limits mentioned.
Groups
No designated group camping areas are mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutPrimitive beach camping without individual designated sites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservations; first-come, first-served.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served as there are no individual designated campsites.
Cancellation PolicyThis campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis and does not accept reservations, so standard cancellation policies related to reservations do not apply.
Amenities available
Potable water
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground is situated in a scenic bay-like area with lake access, making it a good spot for outdoor activities such as camping, boating, fishing, and swimming. User reviews frequently describe the area as ideal for families and activities on the water.
Fishing
Fishing is mentioned as being a popular activity at the lake, with one user review noting it was good when the lake water level was high.Swimming
Swimming is highlighted as a frequent activity, with the lake being described as a 'beautiful beach' and a 'perfect spot for the family.' However, high temperatures can make it difficult to wade into cool water on very hot days.Boating
Boating is a popular activity at the lake, and there are nearby boat docks and places to pull boats up to shore.Beach activities
The campground's beach setting is ideal for activities such as camping, sunbathing, and playing on the sand. User reviews note the large open space and scenic views.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not mentioned as part of the offerings at this campground.Water Sports
Activities such as swimming, kayaking, and potentially paddleboarding are implied based on the lake's setting, though specific details are not provided.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed, as noted in user reviews, but visitors should exercise caution and ensure fires are safely extinguished.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly mentioned; visitors are encouraged to maintain respect for other campers.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include soft sandy terrain during rainy periods, high winds in the valley, and occasional theft as reported by user reviews.
Active alertsNo current warnings or advisories reported.
Weather forecast
70
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 85%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 12.5 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
The nearest emergency services are located in Fritch, TX, which houses local police, fire stations, and small medical facilities. For emergencies beyond basic care, Amarillo (40 miles away) offers full hospital facilities.
Good to know
Peak season datesNot explicitly defined; presumed summer months for peak usage.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned for this campground.
Proximity to water featuresDirect access to Lake Meredith for swimming, fishing, boating, and paddling.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include messy restrooms, theft incidents, disruptive neighbors, and challenges with the 100-foot RV/camper rule limiting proximity to water.
HostNo host services mentioned.
Campground Map
P.O. Box 1460, Fritch, TX, 79036, USA
Driving directionsThere are several different ways to get to Lake Meredith. If you are coming from Amarillo, exit Loop 335 North, then exit Hwy 136 North to Fritch. Headquarters is located at 419 E. Broadway in Fritch. If coming from the North you can take 1913 from the Dumas Highway or 1913 from US 287.
The campground requires caution when leaving paved roads, particularly during rainy conditions as the area can become soft. Roads are sandy and hard packed, but visitors are advised not to bring large rigs down to the sandy beach area.Nearby places
Amarillo: Approximately 40 miles north (about 45 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies, including groceries, camping essentials, and fuel, are available in Fritch, which is approximately a 10-minute drive from the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.5
13 reviews
Cedar Canyon Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are mixed, with positive feedback regarding the scenic views, open spaces, and access to the lake. However, there are concerns about messy bathrooms and occasional disturbances from other campers, such as noise or theft.
Review Summaries
Based on 13 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciate the scenic lake views, the open beach area for camping, and the opportunity for a variety of water-based activities. One review describes it as a 'beautiful beach, perfect for the...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Frequent complaints include messy bathroom conditions and issues with noise from other campers. Some users also mention theft incidents and overcrowding when campers set up too close.
Based on 13 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers suggest locking up valuables due to theft concerns and being cautious when driving off paved roads, especially in wet conditions. One user advises against bringing large rigs to the sandy...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews highlight the popularity of water-based activities but note that high temperatures can make it difficult to access cool water. Spring and fall appear to be more temperate times to...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
'Bathrooms were messy, but plenty of space for camping and a very scenic view on the lake!' - Dan Brownsword. 'Nice campground overall.' - Various users. 'Great for camping if you’re fine with...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
There are no specific site numbers since the campground features open beach camping.
Based on 13 reviewsAccessibility Features
No accessibility reviews or feedback are explicitly noted.
Based on 13 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
There are no specific mentions of pets in the user reviews, though one user notes it as being 'perfect for the family, dogs.'
Based on 13 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025