Tent camping near Azle, Texas offers several options within 30 miles of town in the Cross Timbers ecological region. The area sits at approximately 800 feet elevation with a humid subtropical climate that brings hot summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 95°F in July and August. Fall and spring offer milder temperatures in the 60-80°F range, making them the preferred camping seasons for most tent campers.
What to do
Rock climbing at Lake Mineral Wells State Park: The park features unique rock formations that draw climbers from across the region. "Very unique rock climbing area. Fun to watch the climbers go up and down," notes Emily M. about the Lake Mineral Wells State Park Primitive Area.
Kayaking on area lakes: Several campgrounds offer water access for paddling enthusiasts. "LMWSP has tons of activities for the family. You can spend the day exploring and climbing the rock formations... or exploring the shoreline by kayak," according to Jamey W.
Wildlife viewing: The natural areas around Azle support diverse wildlife. At Black Creek Lake NF Campground, "There are birds, squirrels, raccoons and opossums which roam the grounds so I would advise against leaving food within reach at night," advises Crystal C.
Hiking Cross Timbers trails: The region offers several trail systems with varied terrain. One camper at Lake Mineral Wells noted, "We took the designated 'primitive campsites' trail hiking in. The trails were well marked, but pretty overgrown at parts with a TON of spider webs. The next morning we took the Cross Timbers trail back, which despite being a little longer was faster because of how much better maintained it was."
What campers like
Seclusion and privacy: Many campers appreciate the relative isolation at some sites. At Lyndon B. Johnson National Grassland Dispersed Camping, visitors noted, "They said that they had been coming to this spot for 30+ years and rarely saw anyone else there."
Lakefront sites: Shoreline camping is available at several locations. At De Cordova Bend, a camper shared, "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. It was very clean and there were many deer in the area all night."
Affordable options: Many sites offer low-cost camping. Black Creek Lake NF Campground uses "an honor system at the kiosk for payment. $2 per night includes a fire ring and picnic table at 14 official sites."
Clean facilities: Some campgrounds maintain well-kept amenities. At Meadowmere Park & Campground, "Porta potties were incredibly clean and a main bathroom area featured showers and very clean as well," according to Melanie G.
What you should know
Trail conditions vary significantly: Some trails require preparation. Alice M. reported about Lake Mineral Wells: "The trails were well marked, but pretty overgrown at parts with a TON of spider webs."
Rattlesnake awareness needed: Be alert during summer months. "During summer rattlesnakes are around in taller grass so avoid unmaintained areas," warns a reviewer at Black Creek Lake.
Camp selection timing matters: Popular sites fill quickly on weekends. A visitor to Sycamore Bend Park advised, "Really nice park right on the lake, but it does get a bit crowded. We arrived on a Saturday around noon and took what seemed to be the last spot."
Cash payment required: Many campgrounds use honor system payment boxes. "Bring cash because the kiosk does not accept cards it is a cash only system with no ATM within 10 miles," notes Crystal C. about Black Creek Lake.
Tips for camping with families
Bring shade structures: Summer heat requires protection. "Lots of sun and just a little shade, arrive early for a treed spot or bring shade awnings," recommends Sean B. at De Cordova Bend.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Kids can spot various animals. "We saw some wildlife- deer, an armadillo, and a rabbit," reported Charly S. about hiking to the primitive camping area at Lake Mineral Wells.
Plan for noise at scout-popular sites: Be aware that some campgrounds are frequented by youth groups. Janna R. shared about Lake Mineral Wells: "The Boy Scouts love this campground! Late into our first night, 4 Boy Scout troops rolled in. We were awakened the next morning to lots of kids yelling and 1 even playing a bugle."
Pack extra water: Drinking water isn't available at all sites. At Tadra Point Trailhead & Campground, Mesha P. advises, "There is no drinking water here so you will need to bring some in."
Tips from RVers
Access limitations for larger vehicles: Some roads aren't suitable for all RVs. When visiting LBJ National Grassland, one camper warned, "I would NOT recommend taking any kind of trailer or motorhome down these roads and to this spot."
Consider mid-week visits: Weekdays offer better availability. At De Cordova Bend, a visitor noted, "Return early July and find that this is a mid week haven... The park is busy with boating swimming, fishing, and boating is busy with day use traffic but only 3 or 4 campsites are occupied with tents or rv."
Check actual site locations: Some campgrounds have unexpected layouts. At Sycamore Bend Park, Hannah F. reported, "No access to drive to the actual site so I couldn't use my RTT but it's a short walk from where you park."
