3 Great Weekend Getaways in Driving Distance of Odessa, TX

Take the road from Odessa, TX for unforgettable weekend getaways in a Kia Seltos, Sportage, or Telluride. Explore rugged wind and water-carved canyons, observe wildlife in the short grass prairies, and experience Texas hospitality on an upscale ranch.

3 Great Weekend Getaways in Driving Distance of Odessa, TX

1. Palo Duro Canyon State Park

Go on an outdoor adventure in the heart of the Texas Panhandle at Duro Canyon State Park at 11450 Park Road 5 in Canyon, about three and a half hours from Odessa. The impressive chasm, the second largest in the country, is 800 feet deep and spans an astonishing 120 miles. The unique landscape was formed over millions of years by water and wind erosion from the West Texas wind and the Prairie Dog Town Fork of the Red River.

Drive down to the canyon floor for a 16-mile scenic ride or explore the rugged terrain on foot or in the saddle to catch glimpses of wild turkeys, deer, bobcats, coyotes, and roadrunners. Pitch your tent at a comfortable full hookup campsite in the Mesquite, Sagebrush, or Juniper areas, or enjoy peaceful and secluded camping in the Cactus and Fortress Cliff areas. You can also hike 1.2 miles to camping spots tucked away deep in the canyon.

2. Buffalo Lake National Wildlife Refuge

Find your next adventure in the Buffalo Lake National Wildlife Refuge, just under four hours away on F.M. 168, roughly three miles south of Umbarger. Explore an incredible 7,664 acres covering a diverse landscape of water-carved canyons, shallow marches, and rich riparian habitats where bird and animal life thrive. The 175 acres of shortgrass prairies are one of America’s finest examples and have been designated a National Natural Landmark.

Observe a greater variety of wildlife on the auto tour routes from the comfort of your vehicle by taking a slow, leisurely drive through the refuge early in the morning. Black-tailed prairie dogs run across the prairie, while 300 species of migratory birds, such as sparrows, tanagers, orioles, flycatchers, and warblers, are abundant. Bald and golden eagles are usually spotted during the fall and winter months.

3. Wildcatter Ranch and Resort

Take a four-hour drive to experience the true essence of Texas by spending a few days at Wildcatter Ranch at 6062 Highway16 South in Graham. The 1,500-acre ranch is in the heart of the beautiful North Texas Hill Country and overlooks the Brazos River. Indulge in all the comforts of the upscale western accommodations and spend your days going on daily trail rides along 25 miles of trails with knowledgeable cowboys.

Test your skills in clay shooting and your aim in archery and tomahawk throwing. Go on wagon rides into the fields to feed the longhorn cattle, take roping lessons, and dine on hand-cut Mesquite grilled steaks at Wildcatter Steakhouse. 


Take a break and discover diverse Texas landscapes and native wildlife behind the wheel of a Kia. Before you go off on an adventure, swing by Kelly Grimsley Kia and take a new 2023 SUV for a test drive.

Posted in Local Odessa | No Comments »