The Boy Behind Palo Duro Canyon’s Mystery Journal Has Been Found

A journal sat on a picnic table in Palo Duro Canyon for weeks. The journal had been left behind by Benjamin near the Hackberry Trail restrooms. Many visitors to the area started writing their own words inside the journal.

One person took to Facebook and left a post on the Palo Duro Canyon page looking for Benjamin. The story spread, and people wondered if the owner would ever be found.

Read More: This Forgotten Journal In Palo Duro Canyon Has a Story

The Mystery of Benjamin’s Journal

Yes, the owner was found. Benjamin had been hiking with a friend in Palo Duro Canyon when he misplaced his journal.

Meet the Boy Behind the Journal

We were able to connect with Benjamin's mother, Jayce, and she told us that Benjamin is an avid reader, writer, and artist.

During the hike, he lost his book. The book contained pictures that he had drawn of the things he saw, and he was planning to use those drawings to write a story about his adventure.

Now that the owner has been found, what are the plans for Benjamin's Book?

What Benjamin Wants to Happen Next

Now that so many people have shared their messages in the book, Benjamin and his parents have decided to leave it right where it is. They want to know what other stories will find their way to the pages of this special book.

Update 3/11/2026: After this article was published, we were made aware that Benjamin's book would no longer be available in Palo Duro Canyon and will soon be returned to Benjamin.

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Benjamin's Book possibly started a movement to gather stories from visitors who stop in Palo Duro Canyon.  So the next time you're in Palo Duro Canyon, think about Benjamin's Book, take your own journal, write your own stories of PDC, draw pictures, save those memories.  But remember, always leave the canyon better than you found it.