The LBJ National Grasslands dominate the camping landscape around Alvord, Texas, with over 20,000 acres of public land at elevations ranging from 700-900 feet. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 95°F from June through August, while spring brings wildflower displays across the prairie landscape. Winter camping often features below-freezing overnight temperatures, requiring adequate insulation and cold-weather gear.
What to do
Hiking at multiple skill levels: The LBJ National Grasslands features interconnected trails suitable for day hikes. "Remote dispersed. Great camping for north central Texas... Downloadable hiking maps availability on other apps," notes Ronald S. about Forest Road 904 Dispersed Camping.
Wildlife observation: The grasslands support diverse wildlife viewing opportunities throughout the year. "True Dispersed Camping with the added benefit of cell coverage. Spots are very well spaced out... See deer, armadillos, hogs, and birds," explains Tim O. about his experience at Forest Road 904.
Boating and fishing: Lake Bridgeport provides recreational water activities near Alvord. "The lake is so pristine and the camping spots are fairly large and ours was right on the water. We could park right next to our spot and put our boat in with the boat ramp that we could see from our spot," reports Desiree G. about Wise County Park.
Trail riding: The grasslands provide designated areas for horseback riding. "This campground is great for hitching up a high line for your ponies and spending the weekend hitting the trails. You'll have to haul water to your site from the water trough," advises Emily T. about the LBJ National Grasslands.
What campers like
Waterfront access: Multiple camping spots near Alvord offer lakeside camping experiences. "The campground itself is fairly small. We showed up and I think there was about 6 other campsites. We set up about 10' from the water and had a great time. Woke up fished about then walked around the lake through a makeshift trail," shares Michael M. about Black Creek Lake Recreation Area.
Privacy between sites: The dispersed camping areas provide separation between campers. "Remote dispersed camping with fire rings and good views. Was in a roof top tent but had no problem with wind noise, good cell service," explains Abraham about Forest Road 904 Dispersed Camping.
Proximity to supplies: Despite the rural setting, necessary provisions remain accessible. "This was my first experience boondocking. Absolutely loved the location! Not too far from town if you need something. There is also a water dispensary in Decatur which is nice and convenient," notes Jennifer N. about dispersed camping options.
Family-friendly amenities: Some established campgrounds offer facilities for children. "The camp also has a small playground that our kids enjoyed. Nearby there are a few trails that follow the Black Creek," reports David K. about Black Creek Lake Recreation Area.
What you should know
Water availability varies: Many dispersed sites require bringing your own water. "No bathrooms but there are some at tadra and black creek. There is also water available at those campsite but it's not potable so pack water in or bring a filtration system," advises Mesha P. about Tadra Point Trailhead & Campground.
Navigation challenges: GPS reliability varies throughout the grasslands. "Download maps before getting here. Cell is not the best. No bathrooms, water, etc. Pack in/pack out. Downloadable hiking maps availability on other apps. Only saw 3 other cameras while we were here," suggests Ronald S.
Road conditions: Access roads require careful navigation in some areas. "The roads to the area are paved and fairly decent, though the stretch on CR 2461 is quite narrow. Forrest Road 904, where the dispersed camping is located, is hard packed gravel and in fairly good shape," explains Ray & Terri F.
Weather considerations: The North Texas climate requires preparation. "We arrived late December and it was chilly. Sites with full hook up are limited, but even with annuals are still possible," shares Robert M. about Bay Landing RV Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer designated play areas for children. "Great for kids - there's a playground and barefootable grassy areas. A few trees suitable for hammocking," notes LaRee S. about Black Creek Lake.
Swimming areas: Lake Bridgeport provides designated swimming zones. "There's bathrooms for those who prefer those amenities and a few playgrounds for the little ones. A roped off swim area is also provided," explains David K. about Wise County Park.
Animal viewing opportunities: The grasslands offer wildlife encounters that interest children. "Cattle roaming around and a lot of stocked ponds to fish in and some hiking through the different areas. Very peaceful and still close to the city if you forget anything," describes Kristi B.
Clean facilities: Some campgrounds maintain well-kept restrooms. "Super clean, nice wooded area and, of course, the lake--beautiful," reports MalibuDave42 L. about Black Creek Lake.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Ground conditions can affect RV stability. "Sites: most were level, grass or gravel. Some have a view of the lake. I sprained my knee and ankle at this park because our site was so unlevel and the mud sunk our jacks a little. Our rig weighs 16,000lbs so the Class As should be careful," warns Laura H. about Bay Landing RV Campground.
Site selection strategy: Forest Road 904 requires scouting before positioning large rigs. "We parked our 36' Class A on the side of FR 904, just inside the gate, unhooked our Cherokee and went to scope out the area... If you have a tow vehicle, drop it just inside the gate, leave your RV and go scope out a suitable campsite, as turning around with a large rig is only practical in a couple of locations," recommends Ray & Terri F.
Connectivity considerations: Cell service varies throughout camping spots near Alvord. "We were able to work and stream video easily with T-Mobile and AT&T," reports Laura H. about Bay Landing, while other areas may have limited coverage.
