Sanford Yake Campground
4.5857 reviewsSanford Yake Campground
$0.00 - $24.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$24.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Campsites are free for dry camping, and $24/night for sites with hookups. No fees for entrance, available showers, and restrooms.
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About this campground
Perched high on windswept bluffs above the sparkling waters of Lake Meredith, Sanford Yake Campground beckons adventurers with its 61 sites ranging from full-hookup RV spots to primitive tent camping areas. This elevated sanctuary offers 10 fully-equipped RV sites complete with electric, water, and sewer connections, alongside 51 spacious dry camping sites perfect for those seeking a more rustic experience. Modern amenities blend seamlessly with the raw beauty of the Texas Panhandle, featuring hot showers, clean flush toilets, and shaded picnic pavilions where families gather to watch the sun paint the sky in brilliant hues.
Sanford Yake Campground offers a mix of camping options, including RV sites with hookups and free primitive camping sites.
Weather and SeasonsThe constant companion here is the wind, sweeping across the high plains with a persistence that shapes both the landscape and the camping experience. Spring and fall bring ideal conditions with mild temperatures and wildflower blooms, while summer days warm the red rock formations and invite endless water activities on the lake below. Winter visitors discover a quieter campground where crisp, clear nights reveal stunning starscapes, though the faithful wind ensures you'll want to stake your tent securely and bring extra layers for evening campfires.
ElevationRising majestically above the surrounding landscape, the campground's bluff-top position creates a natural amphitheater for nature's daily performances. This elevated vantage point not only delivers cooling breezes and sweeping 360-degree vistas but also provides front-row seats to spectacular sunrises over the caprock canyons and golden sunsets that transform Lake Meredith into a mirror of molten copper.
Natural Features and SceneryFrom your clifftop perch, the panoramic views stretch endlessly across Lake Meredith's azure waters, framed by the ancient caprock formations that tell stories written in stone over millions of years. The sparse vegetation creates an honest, unfiltered connection with the elements, where golden grasslands ripple like inland seas and the vast Texas sky dominates the landscape. Evening brings a magical transformation as the setting sun ignites the red rock cliffs in fiery brilliance, while morning light reveals hidden canyons and distant mesas emerging from purple shadows.
Geological RegionSet within the dramatic caprock escarpment that defines the Texas Panhandle, this geological wonderland showcases nature's architectural prowess through towering cliffs, layered sedimentary formations, and expansive mesas. The ancient seabed-turned-plateau creates a striking contrast where the High Plains abruptly give way to carved canyons and the man-made oasis of Lake Meredith, offering visitors a front-row seat to millions of years of Earth's history written in colorful bands of rock and the endless dance between water and stone.
Campsite details
AccessibilitySpecific information about accessibility features is not provided, but reviews suggest the campground is well-maintained and user-friendly.
Sites SizeSites are described as roomy, with some featuring large concrete pads. A user mentioned, '45 ft long level cement pad with electricity, water, and a shaded picnic table nearby.'
Sites PrivacySites are spaced out, providing privacy. One review highlighted, 'The sites are spread far apart from each other, giving much privacy, despite very few trees.'
Total Campsites61 campsites
Recommended CampsitesDry camping sites are noted for charm and views, while reservable sites offer proximity to facilities.
Best CampsitesSites with covered picnic tables and shade shelters are highly reviewed. Dry camping sites offer better charm and views.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
14 days free stay limit
Groups
There is no specific information about group sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made by calling 806-865-3131.
Walk-in Availability51 non-reservable campsites available on a first-come first-served basis.
Cancellation PolicyLate cancellations incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's fees. No-show customers are assessed a $20 fee and forfeit the first night's fees or entire day-use fees.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Sanford Yake Campground provides a variety of activities, including opportunities for fishing, wildlife viewing, and enjoying the scenic views of Lake Meredith. Visitors can also engage in boating and other water-related activities.
Fishing
Fishing is noted as a popular activity in and around the campground. One user stated, 'Fishing was good.'Swimming
Swimming is an available activity, with users mentioning wading in the water and enjoying the lake.Boating
Boating is a key activity at the campground. One review mentioned 'a lake for boating,' and others highlight easy access to launch boats.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is highlighted as an activity, with mentions of the natural surroundings and the scenic lake views.Winter Activities
No winter activities are mentioned in the sources.Water Sports
Visitors engage in various water-related activities, including fishing, boating, and swimming, but specific details about non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding are not provided.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire pits available but some have been noted as dirty or littered.
Hazards
General hazardsWind is consistently noted as a hazard. Mosquitoes and burs also mentioned in user reviews.
Weather forecast
68
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 91%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 14.7 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
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
Good to know
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are conveniently located throughout the campground. Reviews frequently mention trash receptacles and dumpsters being available close to campsites.
Proximity to water featuresOverlooks Lake Meredith. No direct access to the lake from campground but close proximity to marina and docks.
Common complaintsWind issues, cleanliness of fire pits and bathrooms could be improved, some noted the challenges of finding the marina.
HostReview mentions Alyssa at the marina being polite and efficient in assisting with reservations.
Campground Map
Driving directionsDriving directions for Sanford Yake Campground are available at https://www.nps.gov/lamr/planyourvisit/camping.htm
Camper Reviews
4.6
57 reviews
Sanford Yake Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, campers appreciate the scenic views, cleanliness, and free camping options at Sanford Yake Campground. Many reviews praise the well-maintained facilities, friendly staff, and spacious sites.
Review Summaries
Based on 57 reviews
What Campers Love
- Free primitive camping
- RV sites with hookups
- Clean showers and restrooms
- Beautiful views of Lake Meredith
- Well-spaced sites for privacy
- Friendly and helpful staff
Based on 57 reviewsCommon Concerns
- Strong winds frequently mentioned
- Some bathrooms and showers require maintenance (e.g., locks, drainage)
- Flies and mosquitoes can be an issue
- Confusing reservation and payment system for RV...
Based on 57 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
- Bring mosquito repellent
- Book RV sites with electricity in advance
- Use trash receptacles to maintain cleanliness
- Ideal for star gazing due to lack of ambient light
Based on 57 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews suggest that spring and fall are popular due to moderate temperatures, but winds can be strong year-round. Summer may bring more mosquitoes, and winter can be chilly but still accessible.
Based on 57 reviewsCamper Quotes
- 'Great FREE camping spot! Clean restrooms with flush toilets and SHOWERS!'
- 'The sites are spread far apart from each other, giving much privacy.'
- 'Very windy, but the views of the lake are...
Based on 57 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
- RV sites: '45 ft long level cement pad with electricity, water, and a shaded picnic table nearby.'
- Primitive sites: 'Free dry camp sites, many with charm.'
- Sites with views: 'Best spots for...
Based on 57 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Limited information on accessibility, but users highlight well-maintained sites and clean facilities.
Based on 57 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but users advise caution due to wildlife such as skunks. One review noted, 'Make sure your dog is on a leash.'
Based on 57 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025