Photo: David Vessels
Photo: Tiffani Skye
Photo: H3LL0K1TTYFOU
Thompson Memorial Park
★4.4(544 reviews)FreePark
🕑 2-4 hours👶 Best for all ages. Toddlers enjoy feeding ducks at the lake and exploring nature, while elementary-aged kids love fishing and hiking the trails. The open spaces are perfect for tweens to bike or play frisbee, making it genuinely enjoyable for multi-age family outings.🧡 Saved by 50+ families
About
Thompson Memorial Park is Amarillo's go-to destination for outdoor family fun, offering 142 acres of natural beauty and recreational activities. With its scenic fishing lake, extensive walking trails, and spacious picnic areas, this park provides the perfect setting for everything from active adventures to relaxing afternoon picnics with stunning Texas Panhandle views.
Highlights
- ✓Scenic fishing lake stocked with catfish and bass,perfect for beginner anglers
- ✓Miles of walking and biking trails with varying difficulty levels
- ✓Multiple playground areas scattered throughout the park
- ✓Wide open spaces ideal for kite flying, picnicking, and outdoor games
- ✓Duck feeding spots along the lake shore (bring appropriate bird-safe food)
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive early morning (around 6-7 AM) for the best wildlife spotting and cooler temperatures, especially during summer months
- 2.Bring fishing poles and bait,the lake is stocked and kids love catching their first fish here (Texas fishing license required for adults)
- 3.Pack a wagon or stroller-friendly setup; the trails are mostly paved and perfect for younger kids who tire easily
- 4.The west side of the park has the best shaded picnic spots and is closest to the lake for easy access
- 5.Download a bird identification app before visiting,the park is home to numerous species that fascinate young nature enthusiasts
Best Time to Visit
Visit during spring (March-May) or fall (September-November) for the most comfortable weather and beautiful scenery. Weekday mornings offer peaceful exploration, while weekend afternoons bring a lively community atmosphere. Avoid midday summer visits when temperatures soar above 95°F.
What to Know
The park is free to enter with ample parking available throughout. While there are restroom facilities on-site, no food concessions are available, so pack snacks and plenty of water for your visit.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round with activities available in all seasons. Spring wildflowers create beautiful photo opportunities, while fall foliage adds gorgeous color. Summer requires sun protection and hydration. Winter visits are peaceful but dress warmly for chilly Panhandle winds.
Nearby Eats
Calico County Restaurant (family-style comfort food with a kids menu) is just 5 minutes away, or grab quick bites at Whataburger on Dumas Drive for a true Texas experience the kids will love.
More Activities Near Amarillo
Park
Randall County
Free
Randall County offers families an abundance of outdoor space perfect for letting kids run wild and burn off energy. With well-maintained playgrounds, shaded picnic areas, and spacious pavilions, it's an ideal spot for everything from casual weekend outings to organized birthday celebrations and pickup sports games.
Park
Spring Canyon
★4.7Free❤️21
Spring Canyon offers families a peaceful escape into nature with plenty of space for kids to explore and play. This scenic park features fishing spots perfect for teaching little ones to cast their first line, gentle walking paths ideal for stroller hikes or bike rides, and beautiful natural landscapes that make for memorable family picnics and outdoor adventures.
Restaurant
Big Moose Lodge
$$
Big Moose Lodge in Amarillo is a parent's dream for a stress-free dining experience. This casual family restaurant combines hearty comfort food with built-in entertainment, featuring an indoor playground and arcade games that keep kids happily occupied. It's the perfect spot where parents can actually enjoy their meal while children burn off energy in a safe, supervised environment.
Activity
Amarillo Parks and Recreation Splash Pads
Free
Amarillo's free splash pads scattered throughout city parks are a budget-friendly oasis for families during hot Texas summers. These safe, interactive water play areas feature ground-level sprays, fountains, and jets that keep little ones entertained for hours without the depth concerns of traditional pools. With multiple locations across the city, there's likely a convenient splash pad near wherever you're staying or exploring in Amarillo.