Tent campsites near Aledo, Texas range from secluded lakeside spots to wooded grassland areas, with elevations between 700-1,000 feet. Summer temperatures frequently exceed 95°F from June through September, making spring and fall the preferred camping seasons. Most primitive sites don't offer potable water, requiring campers to bring their own supply for overnight stays.
What to do
Rock climbing adventures: Lake Mineral Wells State Park Primitive Area offers unique rock climbing opportunities for beginners and experienced climbers. "The rock climbing is so fun to watch! Really unique rocks for Texas. Worth going to this park just to check that out," notes visitor Emily M. Another camper shared, "My husband loves to climb and there are many opportunities to do different types of climbing here. You can repel or boulder at the Penitentiary Hollow trail."
Paddling and fishing: De Cordova Bend provides access to excellent fishing spots on the Brazos River. "Decordova bend park is managed by the Bravos River Authority. Has several picnic tables, grills and a public boat ramp. Free to camp with a 10 day max," reports Jason. At Lake Mineral Wells, "kayaking on the lake with a little creek to paddle up at the far back left side" creates another water recreation option.
Wildlife watching: The grasslands and lakes host diverse wildlife throughout camping areas. Charly S. reported at Lake Mineral Wells primitive sites: "I saw some wildlife- deer, an armadillo, and a rabbit." Jason at De Cordova Bend mentioned, "It was very clean and there were many deer in the area all night."
What campers like
Weekday solitude: Mid-week camping offers a more peaceful experience at many Aledo-area campgrounds. At Black Creek Lake NF Campground, one visitor noted, "Last time I went was mid-week. The temperature was soaring but a nice breeze off the lake coupled with the shady trees made for a very nice experience." The campground offers tent-only primitive camping with fire rings and picnic tables at 14 official sites for $2 per night.
Affordable options: Several campgrounds provide budget-friendly camping. At Sycamore Bend Park, sites cost $20 per night with a maximum 3-night stay. The park has "nice fire rings, flag pole, and calm park" according to Taylin B. For completely free camping, check the Lyndon B. Johnson National Grassland dispersed areas.
Scenic views: Many campsites offer lakeside views or woodland settings. At LBJ Grasslands, Michele A. found "a pretty great vista view from which the spectacular sunset was just a great bonus." Alan H. at Black Creek Lake enjoyed how "a nice breeze off the lake coupled with the shady trees made for a very nice experience."
What you should know
Site accessibility varies: Some campgrounds have challenging access conditions. At Lyndon B. Johnson National Grassland Tadra Point Campground, a visitor noted, "We weren't sure about the accessibility to the trailhead road with our 23 foot travel trailer so we opted to stay off road 904, where the horse trailers park, since there were some nice flat spots."
Bathroom conditions: Facilities range from well-maintained to primitive. Taylin B. mentioned at Sycamore Bend Park, "The restrooms really stink, but are always clean and stocked in my experience." At Tadra Point Campground, there are "two non flushing restroom[s]" according to Mesha P.
Water availability: Most primitive sites require bringing your own water. Mesha P. noted about Tadra Point, "There is no drinking water here so you will need to bring some in." At the LBJ National Grassland, Michelle T. advises, "I would NOT recommend taking any kind of trailer or motorhome down these roads and to this spot."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Meadowmere Park & Campground offers amenities suitable for families with children. Melanie G. described it as a "Hidden Gem! We really enjoyed this camp space. Peaceful, open, spacious and super nice management and staff." The campground features clean facilities and organized camping areas.
Best family activities: Lake Mineral Wells provides multiple recreation options. Jamey W. notes, "LMWSP has tons of activities for the family. You can spend the day exploring and climbing the rock formations, bring climbing gear if you plan to get to the top. You can also spend your day on the water, swimming on the beach, fishing from a pier or exploring the shoreline by kayak."
Scout-friendly areas: Some campgrounds regularly host scout groups. At Sycamore Bend Park, Chris K. mentioned, "This camp site is very popular with the boy and cub scout troops in the North Dallas Metroplex area. So if you looking for a nice quite place to commune with nature this may not be your cup of tea."
Tips from RVers
Secure camping options: For RVers seeking security, Northside RV Resort offers a gated entrance. Iris A. reports, "The park was very clean with four bathroom/shower rooms and laundry room as well. We visited in November and it was quiet with a nice view of the water. The park also has a gate with a code needed to enter."
Seasonal considerations: Weather significantly impacts camping comfort. Marilea G. noted at Northside RV Resort, "We stayed here in November so didn't have any bug problems. It is a new park and very well laid out. The sites are large and easy to pull in and out." Summer visits often require bug spray and heat management strategies.
Utility access: Various campgrounds offer different hookup options. The LBJ National Grassland dispersed camping areas allow free camping with minimal facilities, while places like Northside RV Resort provide more amenities. Angela R. mentioned, "Each shower has its own toilet and vanity behind a lockable door. Our campsite (532) was a little awkward to get in because of the corner and the speed bumps, but not impossible."
