Dispersed camping options surrounding Colleyville, Texas concentrate primarily in the LBJ National Grasslands, approximately 40 miles northwest of the city. This federally managed land spans over 20,000 acres of mixed prairie and woodland terrain at elevations ranging from 700-900 feet. Weather patterns feature hot summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 95°F and mild winters, with occasional freezing temperatures between December and February. Seasonal cattle grazing operations occur throughout the grasslands, with ranchers rotating livestock between designated sections.
What to do
Wildlife observation opportunities: The LBJ National Grasslands provide habitat for diverse wildlife. One visitor noted, "See deer, armadillos, hogs, and birds" while camping in the LBJ National Grasslands Forest Road 904 Dispersed Camping.
Fishing access: Hunter Park offers convenient water access for anglers. A reviewer mentioned, "The fish are active" and another noted it's "a very nice park, free camping not designated camp sites. Just first come first served camp where you want. Good fishing and kinda quiet for being a campsite."
Hiking trails: The grasslands feature established hiking routes through varied terrain. A camper commented about Forest Road 904, "Great hiking. Downloadable hiking maps availability on other apps." Trails range from short 1-mile loops to more extensive 5+ mile networks connecting various sections of the grasslands.
Stargazing sessions: Light pollution levels decrease significantly in parts of the grasslands compared to the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. One visitor hinted at celestial viewing opportunities: "If you come here in the right time of the year, stay out late and turn off your lights- you'll get a night surprise."
What campers like
Peaceful surroundings: The dispersed areas offer significant separation between sites. A camper reported, "Very remote dispersed. Great camping for north central Texas. The sites are a good distance between them." Another mentioned, "Very quiet you won't hear anyone besides the wildlife at night!"
Established fire rings: Despite being primitive camping, many sites feature stone fire rings constructed by previous visitors. One reviewer stated, "Most areas have rock campfires setups that people have made," making it easier to contain campfires safely.
Cell service availability: Unlike many remote camping areas, portions of the grasslands maintain reasonable connectivity. A visitor to Lyndon B. Johnson National Grassland Dispersed Camping highlighted this unexpected benefit: "True Dispersed Camping with the added benefit of cell coverage."
Scenic landscapes: The rolling grassland terrain provides visual appeal without requiring mountain travel. One camper described it as "Remote, quiet, simple beauty. Easy access, cool area. Worth checking out for a low profile weekender or hike."
What you should know
Water availability concerns: No potable water exists directly at dispersed sites. A camper advised, "There is also a water dispensary in Decatur which is nice and convenient!" referring to the town approximately 30 minutes from most camping areas.
Variable site conditions: Not all areas within the grasslands are equally accessible. For the Dead Pump Jack area, a visitor warned, "I wouldn't bring anything towed or longer than a B van since there are some major ruts."
Leave-no-trace importance: Several reviewers mentioned cleanliness issues at some sites. One noted, "Found a site with beautiful views, but previous visitors left behind debris - if you use, please practice pack in/out principals!"
Bathroom alternatives: While most dispersed sites lack facilities, nearby developed areas provide options. A camper shared, "Bring a shovel and TP! About a half hour to town with all amenities."
Safety considerations: One negative report indicated potential security issues, stating, "DO NOT COME HERE ALOT OF HARASSMENT ALOT OF PEOPLE MESSING WITH U TERRIBLE EXPERIENCE DONT GO." This appears isolated, as most reviews mention peaceful experiences.
Tips for camping with families
Hunter Park advantages: For camping with children, Hunter Park offers more structured facilities. A visitor described it as "A cute little park with lots of picnic tables, a pier, and a huge field. The bathrooms were closed but they supplied a porta potty and the nearest gas station is only about two minutes away."
Weather preparedness: The open terrain leaves campers exposed to elements. Pack accordingly for temperature fluctuations, as one camper experienced: "We came in February and it was cold that night."
Wildlife education opportunities: The visible wildlife provides learning experiences. A camper noted seeing "cattle on the property which was really nice to watch!" These encounters offer natural science learning moments for children.
Shade limitations: Several areas lack natural cover. One visitor cautioned about Hunter Park, "If you are car camping or tent camping, be wary about the fact that there will be little to no shade."
Tips from RVers
Scouting recommendation: For larger vehicles, preliminary site inspection helps prevent access problems. One RV owner advised, "We parked our 36' Class A on the side of FR 904, just inside the gate, unhooked our Cherokee and went to scope out the area."
Road condition awareness: Access roads vary significantly in quality. A camper reported, "The roads to the area are paved and fairly decent, though the stretch on CR 2461 is quite narrow. Forrest Road 904, where the dispersed camping is located, is hard packed gravel and in fairly good shape."
Overnight transit option: Free camping near Colleyville provides convenient stopovers for travelers. One RVer shared, "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."
Loop configuration benefit: Hunter Park's layout facilitates easier maneuvering. A reviewer noted, "Plenty of space for a big rig, and the whole thing is designed in a loop, so no backing out necessary! Plus all driving areas to and from the campsite, as well as in it, are paved."
