Dispersed camping near Alvord, Texas primarily centers around the Lyndon B. Johnson National Grasslands, a 20,250-acre public land area managed by the U.S. Forest Service. The grasslands feature rolling terrain with elevations ranging between 700-900 feet and a mix of prairie grasslands interspersed with oak motts. Winter temperatures typically range from 30-60°F while summer months regularly exceed 95°F with high humidity.
What to do
Wildlife watching: The grasslands support diverse wildlife including deer, armadillos, wild hogs, and numerous bird species. "See deer, armadillos, hogs, and birds," notes one visitor to LBJ National Grasslands Forest Road 904 Dispersed Camping.
Fishing opportunities: Several small ponds throughout the grasslands provide fishing spots. A camper at Lyndon B. Johnson National Grassland Dispersed Camping mentions: "There were some locals who came through and talked to us for a while when they were fishing in the lake. They said that they had been coming to this spot for 30+ years and rarely saw anyone else there."
Stargazing: Light pollution is minimal in certain areas, creating excellent night sky viewing. "If you are there in the right time of the year, stay out late and turn off your lights—you'll get a night surprise," advises a camper about the darker sections of the grasslands.
What campers like
Solitude and spacing: Campsites throughout the grasslands are well-separated. "The sites are a good distance between them. You can drive along the roads and look for them. We spotted 22 sites, there may be more," reports a visitor to Forest Road 904.
Natural beauty: The open prairie vistas offer unique landscape views. "First trip here last week, early April. Remote, quiet, simple beauty. Easy access, cool area. Worth checking out for a low profile weekender or hike," writes one camper.
Cell service: Unlike many remote camping areas, certain sections maintain usable coverage. "True Dispersed Camping with the added benefit of cell coverage. Spots are very well spaced out," notes a camper at Dead Pump Jack, though coverage varies by location.
What you should know
Water planning: No potable water exists on-site. "There is also a water dispensary in Decatur which is nice and convenient!" shares one camper, referencing the nearest town with reliable water access.
Road conditions vary: Some roads require higher-clearance vehicles, especially after rain. "Not to far off the beaten path but just far enough. I wouldn't bring anything towed or longer than a B van since there are some major ruts," warns a visitor about certain access roads.
Supply run distance: "About a half hour to town with all amenities," notes a camper, highlighting the importance of bringing all necessary supplies as return trips can be time-consuming.
Tips for camping with families
Safety preparations: With no facilities or staff nearby, families should bring complete first aid kits and emergency communication devices. "Download maps before getting here. Cell is not the best. No bathrooms, water, etc. Pack in/pack out," advises a camper at Forest Road 904.
Wildlife education: Turn wildlife viewing into learning opportunities. "Lots of steers grazing around the area and right up to the RV most mornings," shares one camper, noting that children should understand safe distances from all animals, including the sometimes-present cattle.
Leave no trace teaching: Several campers note issues with previous visitors leaving trash. "Great area that was remote, but easy to get to with few others around. Found a site with beautiful views, but previous visitors left behind debris—if you use, please practice pack in/out principals!" urges a visitor to LBJ National Grasslands Forest Road 904 Dispersed Camping.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Larger rigs have limited options for sites that can accommodate them. "Taking the Trinity exit north off the loop around Decatur and using the navigation to the LBJ Grasslands to Park Rd 904 access was easy (& scenic). Once inside you could tell there'd been recent rain but the wet areas were easily avoided," notes an RVer with a travel trailer.
Scouting recommendation: RVers should scout potential sites before attempting access with their 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," shares one experienced camper.
Wind exposure: Higher elevation sites experience stronger winds. "It did get rather windy but I was on top of the hill. Live and learn," mentions a camper who discovered this aspect through experience.
