Dispersed camping opportunities near Bowie, Texas include sites at the Lyndon B. Johnson National Grassland where primitive camping is available at no cost. This North Texas camping region sits at approximately 1,100 feet elevation and experiences hot summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 95°F from June through September. Winter nights can drop below freezing, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons.
What to do
Stargazing sessions: The dark skies at Lyndon B. Johnson National Grassland create perfect conditions for viewing stars and constellations. According to one visitor, "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." Weeknights typically offer the darkest skies with fewer fellow campers.
Historic fort tours: Visit Fort Richardson State Park to explore restored military buildings and learn about frontier history. A camper noted, "The fort is very interesting. I was there on a re-enactment weekend and really enjoyed talking to all the re-enacters. A lot of great history." The self-guided tours require approximately 60-90 minutes to complete all buildings.
Fishing excursions: Multiple lakes around Bowie provide excellent fishing opportunities. At Lake Arrowhead State Park, one visitor observed it's "known for the prairie dog colonies which are fun to watch!" while mentioning the park "has a stocked fishing lake and equipment for loan." Most lake fishing spots are accessible without special permits beyond a standard Texas fishing license.
What campers like
Private waterfront camping: Lake Godstone offers secluded sites with lake access. A camper mentioned, "We stayed at the Group campground at the top of the dam, and it was a very nice, level site for our tents. It has a wind-break on one side that we were thankful for when the windstorms rolled through." The sites provide easy access to docks for fishing.
Wildlife encounters: Many campgrounds in the area feature resident wildlife. At Lake Arrowhead State Park, a visitor noted that "this area is the most populated by the Prairie Dogs and will make for some of the most lasting memories of the park." Wildlife viewing is typically best during early morning or evening hours when animals are most active.
Spacious campsites: Thousand Trails Bay Landing offers generously sized sites. One camper stated: "Nice wide open campground and great lake. Easy to access, even for larger rigs. We stayed in 39 foot 5th wheel. Plenty of pull thru spots, full hookups, regularly spaced bathroom/showers."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Summer heat makes spring and fall the preferred camping seasons. At Johnson Branch Campsites, a visitor reported, "While this one was almost at capacity, we did not feel crowded. We took a self guided tour of the grounds and visited the hospital, morgue, bakery, bridge, officer quarters and the nature center."
Site selection tips: Many campgrounds offer various site types with different amenities and privacy levels. At Wichita Falls RV Park, a camper advised, "We were in back-in site 20, which was level, shaded and plenty wide and long enough for our 35' MH and tow car. The pads are gravel with a paved pad for picnic table."
Sound carries at lakefront sites: Be aware that noise travels across water. At Lake Godstone, a reviewer warned, "One thing to note if you are camping around the lake - sound travels. If there are guests at the lodge, you WILL hear them." This is important to consider when selecting a glamping site in Bowie, Texas if you prefer quiet surroundings.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park offers extensive amenities for children. A visitor shared, "This park has a lot to offer. Multiple pools (including a nice splash pad type area for the little kids), jumping pillows, maze, nice playground, animals, blow up obstacle course, and scheduled activities like hayrides, bubbles, candy bingo, etc."
Educational opportunities: Fort Richardson provides learning experiences through historical buildings. One camper mentioned, "If you have kids, the fort buildings are always a hit. They have restored the old hospital building & the officers' living quarters." Allow 2-3 hours for families to explore the complete fort complex.
Playground access: Consider campsites near play areas for families with young children. At Lake Arrowhead State Park, a visitor noted, "The other nice thing from our site was that we were about 1/4 mile from a little playground for the kids. The playground wasn't anything grand, but it broke up the days for the kids some, which as all parents know is a gift."
Tips from RVers
Accessibility factors: Most luxury glamping sites near Bowie, Texas accommodate larger rigs, but access varies by location. At Bay Landing RV Campground, a reviewer cautioned, "You pick your own site which is nice but most of the full hook up sites are occupied by long term residents or annual site holders."
Water and hookup availability: Premium RV spots with sewer connections fill quickly at peak times. A visitor to Wichita Falls RV Park shared, "They have FHU, great cable and very decent WiFi. Verizon cell service was 4G 4 bars. The fulltime and long-term folks are over in a different section."
Weather considerations: Be prepared for sudden weather changes. One camper at Lake Godstone mentioned, "When the windstorms rolled through" they were "thankful for" a windbreak at their site. For luxury glamping near Bowie, having proper shelter and equipment is essential during spring and fall when storms are more common.
