Tent camping opportunities near Bedford, Texas extend beyond established campgrounds to include dispersed sites within the Lyndon B. Johnson National Grassland, approximately 45 miles northwest of Bedford. The region sits at an average elevation of 600 feet above sea level with mild winters and hot summers where temperatures regularly exceed 95°F in July and August. Fall camping offers the most comfortable conditions with daytime temperatures in the 70s-80s and cooler overnight lows.
What to do
Mountain biking and hiking trails: Erwin Park in McKinney features 9 miles of trails maintained by Dallas Off-Road Bicycle Association. A camper noted, "Erwin Park is a great place to visit if you're looking to spend a few days running or biking trails. Campsites are far enough apart that you have privacy yet close enough that you don't feel alone" (Erwin Park).
Fishing opportunities: De Cordova Bend Park provides access to Lake Granbury for fishing enthusiasts. "Fishing, swimming, camping, and a boat launch. Park is often very clean... Far enough away from town to be a peaceful quick getaway," according to a camper who has visited for over 10 years (De Cordova Bend).
Paddling and water activities: Black Creek Lake NF Campground offers boat ramp access for paddlers. "During spring, I have noticed a lot of small john boats launching. There are birds, squirrels, raccoons and opossums which roam the grounds," notes a visitor who recommends securing food at night to avoid wildlife encounters.
Stargazing: Lyndon B. Johnson National Grassland provides dark sky viewing opportunities. A camper recommends: "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."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Sycamore Bend Park offers secluded tent camping areas. A camper described it as "a really nice, secluded campground for being so close to suburbs. Great for hammocking, kayaking, paddle boarding etc."
Lake access: Little Elm Park provides direct access to water for recreation. "Electric hookups for RV generally a small area first come first serve.... 5 dollars per tent....restrooms and park lights.... stores nearby..... no showers," notes a visitor who appreciated the convenience (Little Elm Park).
Clean facilities: Northside RV Resort maintains well-kept shower facilities. "Each shower has its own toilet and vanity behind a lockable door," reports a November visitor who appreciated the cleanliness despite rainy conditions (Northside RV Resort).
Free camping options: De Cordova Bend offers no-cost camping with a 10-day maximum stay. A camper shared, "It was very clean and there were many deer in the area all night."
What you should know
Bathroom considerations: Facilities vary dramatically between campgrounds. At Erwin Park, a visitor cautions, "The only thing I would change is the bathroom facilities, there are no doors at all!"
Trail traffic on weekends: Popular areas get crowded during peak times. A long-time visitor to Erwin Park explains, "It has become a popular spot with mountain bikers. That can create issues on the weekend when the trails are teeming with cyclists... Hiking also isn't as safe."
Wildlife precautions: Campers at Black Creek Lake NF Campground advise bringing bug spray. "For some reason there are HUGE mosquitos so make sure to remember your spray otherwise you will be itching all night." The same reviewer also warns about rattlesnakes during summer months in tall grass areas (Black Creek Lake NF Campground).
Weather considerations: The best tent camping near Bedford, Texas occurs during spring and fall. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 95°F, making overnight comfort challenging without shade or breeze.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. Northside RV Resort includes "two dog parks and one small playground for kids," making it suitable for families with both children and pets.
Swimming spots: The best tent camping spots for families include those with lake access. De Cordova Bend offers swimming areas and is "well lit at night," providing security for family outings.
Site selection for shade: When camping during warmer months, arrive early to secure shaded sites. At De Cordova Bend, a camper advises, "Lots of sun and just a little shade, arrive early for a treed spot or bring shade awnings."
Budget-friendly options: For families watching costs, consider Little Elm Park where tent sites cost $5 per night with basic amenities including restrooms and nearby stores for supplies.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Lyndon B. Johnson National Grassland offers free dispersed camping, but access requires preparation. A visitor with a Toyota 4Runner pulling a small trailer advises: "I would NOT recommend taking any kind of trailer or motorhome down these roads and to this spot" (Lyndon B. Johnson National Grassland).
Security features: RVers appreciate Northside RV Resort's gated entry system. "The park itself is gated and secure," notes a visitor who stayed during November, highlighting safety features important to overnight guests.
Off-season visits: For less crowded conditions at the best tent camping near Bedford, Texas, consider weekday or off-season trips. A visitor to Northside RV Resort found "this is a mid-week haven" with only a few occupied sites despite busy day-use areas.
