Texas Towns to Love: Dumas

When most people think of west Texas, they picture endless plains with rolling tumbleweeds and cowboys on horseback. Some will picture the oilfields rich with liquid gold and oil tycoons. But Dumas, Texas, located less than 70 miles from the Texas/Oklahoma border, is more than just a halfway point between Denver and Dallas. This panhandle town provides visitors with a unique glimpse into Texas’ storied history.

Dumas’ roots can be traced back to the 19th Century, and the town was officially called Dumas beginning in 1891, getting its name from the town’s founder, Louis Dumas. Today, Dumas has a population hovering around 15,000 people and boasts several parks, museums and entertainment options for visitors and locals alike. The next time you decide to head out to the Texas panhandle, make it a plan to stop in Dumas and check out all this town has to offer.

Four fun activities you don’t want to miss in Dumas, Texas

Window on the Plains Museum– This free museum allows visitors to glimpse what life was like in Dumas in the late 19th and early 20th Centuries. Enjoy learning about ranch and farm life for early Dumas settlers as well as learning about family life and dynamics in the area during the 20th Century. Don’t miss the adjoining art center, which hosts regular classes to help you hone your art skills. 

Lake Meredith Recreation Area– Enjoy some time with Mother Nature hiking, fishing and more at this natural area located along the Canadian River. Hunt, off-road and explore at this stunning natural area, where the Canadian River has carved spectacular 200-foot canyons, called breaks. Guests will enjoy the sweeping views and plethora of activities available at this spot.  

Fun yearly activities: Dogie Days, Cowboy Classic Rodeo & Texas Tumbleweed 100. 

Dogie Days is an annual festival in Dumas taking place in early summer. This family-friendly event includes food, carnival rides, a parade and a town barbecue. Plan your vacation to Dumas in August and you can catch family-friendly rodeo action with some great ropers, barrel racers and more. Bikers will want to visit Dumas in September to catch the Tumbleweed 100, where they can race 100 miles for a chance at bragging rights (and maybe a medal!). 

Evelyn Theater– Remodeled and restored for the modern era, the Evelyn Theater is now the place to go in Dumas to catch live entertainment as well as movies. Grab a snack, sit back and enjoy a show at this historic theater located right in the heart of downtown Dumas. 

Dumas-area lodging

If your travels bring you to the charming town of Dumas, consider a stay in nearby Amarillo, where you can find everything you need for a fun and relaxing getaway, solo, with a partner or even a whole group. For comfortable lodging in the Amarillo area, check out Big Texan RV Ranch, Amarillo’s premier RV resort. You’ll get great prices, a convenient location, loads of on-site entertainment for the family, free coffee and bagels in the morning- and the list goes on! This is one RV park in Texas you definitely don’t want to miss.