The Lyndon B. Johnson National Grassland dominates tent camping near Bowie, Texas, with over 20,000 acres of public land. Located approximately 25 miles northwest of Bowie, this mixed-grass prairie ecosystem sits at elevations ranging from 800-1,000 feet and experiences hot summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 95°F. Winter campers should prepare for occasional freezing nights with temperatures dropping into the 20s from December through February.
What to do
Horseback riding trails: Tadra Point Trailhead offers extensive riding paths through the grassland. "We enjoyed our overnight stay near the trailhead. We weren't sure about the accessibility to the trailhead road with our 23 foot travel trailer so we opted to stay off road 904, where the horse trailers park, since there were some nice flat spots," shares one camper at Tadra Point Trailhead & Campground.
Rock climbing: The unique rock formations at Lake Mineral Wells State Park provide opportunities for climbers of various skill levels. A visitor to Primitive Area — Lake Mineral Wells State Park notes, "You can spend the day exploring and climbing the rock formations, bring climbing gear if you plan to get to the top."
Fishing at multiple lakes: The area offers several fishing spots with varying amenities. "When I was younger we used to go over to this lake to ride bikes around during the spring. It was never very busy and mostly was just a few people wanting a weekend get away here and there or a person wanting to use the boat launch," explains a reviewer at Joe Benton Park - Lake Nocona.
What campers like
Seclusion in primitive areas: Many tent campers appreciate the quiet areas away from developed facilities. "This was the perfect place for my first solo hiking/camping trip! I was greeted by friendly, informative staff and paid the $7 day pass fee and $10 for the site. The hike to camp was 2.5 miles with a steep downhill grade the first quarter mile."
Water activities: Lakes in the region provide recreational opportunities beyond just camping. "LMWSP has tons of activities for the family. You can spend the day on the water, swimming on the beach, fishing from a pier or exploring the shoreline by kayak."
Wildlife encounters: The grassland ecosystem supports diverse wildlife. "I saw some wildlife- deer, an armadillo, and a rabbit. I was carrying a 50 lb pack and stopped often for pics, so it took me about an hour and a half to reach the primitive camping area."
What you should know
Limited facilities at many sites: Most camping areas offer minimal amenities. At Black Creek Lake NF Campground, "This site is tent only primitive camping with an honor system at the kiosk for payment. $2 per night includes a fire ring and picnic table at 14 official sites."
Seasonal considerations: The grasslands can become extremely dry during summer months. "It is hot in Texas right now to say the least! Because of this most of the grass and other vegetation is pretty dry. There were some signs posted about no burning in the area so a campfire would have been out of the question had I decided to stay."
Water availability: Water sources are limited or non-existent at many sites. "There is no drinking water here so you will need to bring some in," reports a visitor to Tadra Point Trailhead.
Tips for camping with families
Choose improved sites: For camping with children, select areas with basic facilities. "The campsites are really nice and include water, fire ring, picnic table, grill, parking for 2 vehicles, lots of trees. Campsites on the south side of the loop back up to the lake."
Be aware of group camping: Some areas get busy with organized groups. "The only negative: 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 properly for primitive sites: When tent camping near Bowie in more remote areas, bring all essentials. "At some point I heard some coyotes but other than that it was very quiet and secluded so I slept like a rock!"
Tips from RVers
Road condition awareness: Many roads in the grasslands aren't suitable for larger vehicles. At Lyndon B. Johnson National Grassland Dispersed Camping, one camper advises, "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)."
Consider site size limitations: RV campers should research site dimensions before arrival. "Once inside you could tell there'd been recent rain but the wet areas were easily avoided. Sites are spacious and we soon found a pretty great vista view from which the spectacular sunset was just a great bonus."
Weather preparedness: The open grassland offers little shelter from elements. "Will make a note to use this stop en route out of the central part of the state going west for future trips."
