Dispersed camping opportunities near Argyle, Texas extend beyond the main Forest Road 904 area in the LBJ National Grasslands. The terrain consists primarily of rolling prairie interspersed with oak mottes and small lakes, creating diverse camping environments. Summer temperatures often exceed 100°F, while spring and fall offer milder conditions with occasional thunderstorms. These public lands contain numerous unofficial campsites accessible via forest service roads throughout the 20,250-acre grasslands area.
What to do
Fishing at small ponds: Several small fishing spots exist throughout the grasslands where campers can catch bass and other freshwater species. "We drove a Toyota 4Runner and a small utility trailer with a roof top tent on it. Though this is some room down there, if someone else is there, I would move on," notes one visitor to Lyndon B. Johnson National Grassland Dispersed Camping.
Wildlife observation: The grasslands host diverse wildlife viewing opportunities, particularly at dawn and dusk. A camper at LBJ National Grasslands Forest Road 904 Dispersed Camping mentioned, "See deer, armadillos, hogs, and birds. Bring a shovel and TP! About a half hour to town with all amenities."
Night sky viewing: The area's limited light pollution creates excellent stargazing conditions. "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," shares one visitor, hinting at potentially spectacular celestial views.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: The considerable distance between established sites allows for genuine solitude. "Spots are very well spaced out. Only a mile drive to a pond for water for camp showers and putting out fires," notes a camper describing the dispersed camping experience.
Accessibility with seclusion: Despite being relatively accessible, the camping areas maintain a remote feel. "Not too 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," explains a camper at Dead Pump Jack.
Scenic vistas: Many sites feature elevated positions with views across the grasslands. One camper describes finding "a pretty great vista view from which the spectacular sunset was just a great bonus" at the LBJ Grasslands.
What you should know
Water availability: No potable water exists at the dispersed sites, requiring advance planning. "There is also a water dispensary in Decatur which is nice and convenient!" mentions one visitor, while another notes: "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."
Road conditions vary: Access roads can become challenging after rainfall. "Roads to campsite are well maintained gravel, fire rings, and good views," reports one camper, while others note difficult conditions on some routes.
Pack out all waste: Free camping near Argyle requires strict adherence to Leave No Trace principles. Some visitors report finding debris left by previous campers, emphasizing the need for responsible practices.
Tips for camping with families
Cattle encounters: Prepare children for livestock encounters as cattle graze throughout the area. "Lots of steers grazing around the area and right up to the RV most mornings," reports one camper at LBJ National Grasslands.
Navigation preparation: Cell service can be unreliable for navigation. "Download maps before getting here. Cell is not the best," advises a visitor, suggesting families should prepare offline maps and coordinates in advance.
Supply runs: The nearest full services are in Decatur, approximately 30 minutes away. "Was transiting between central Texas toward Colorado in an off-grid TT and didn't want to venture far off 287 for a comfortable, quiet & safe place to stay for the night. 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)."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Larger RVs face significant challenges on many forest roads. One experienced RVer advises: "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."
Wind exposure: Some elevated sites experience significant wind. "This was my first experience boondocking. Absolutely loved the location! Not too far from town if you need something. It did get rather windy but I was on top of the hill. Live and learn."
Cell connectivity: Coverage varies throughout the grasslands, important for remote workers. "AT&T coverage was fairly good here, generally varying between 1-3 Bars of LTE service, with speeds up to 4.5 MB/s."
