Lyndon B. Johnson National Grasslands offers free rustic camping near Corinth, Texas, with numerous unmarked dispersed sites accessible from multiple entry points. Sites along forest roads provide solitude across the 20,250-acre grassland, with unobstructed views of North Texas prairie landscape. During spring months, seasonal ponds and wildflowers create temporary habitats for migratory birds throughout the camping areas.
What to do
Hiking through varied terrain: The grasslands feature multiple trail systems suitable for day hikes. One regular visitor mentions, "Great hiking. We spotted 22 sites, there may be more. Download maps before getting here" while camping at LBJ National Grasslands Forest Road 904 Dispersed Camping.
Wildlife observation: Dawn and dusk provide prime wildlife viewing opportunities. A camper at LBJ National Grasslands Forest Road 904 Dispersed Camping reports, "See deer, armadillos, hogs, and birds. Bring a shovel and TP! About a half hour to town with all amenities."
Stargazing: Light pollution is minimal in most camping areas. According to one visitor at Lyndon B. Johnson National Grassland Dispersed Camping, "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
Secluded camping spots: The wide spacing between established sites provides privacy rarely found in designated campgrounds. One camper notes, "Remote, quiet, simple beauty. Easy access, cool area. Worth checking out for a low profile weekender or hike."
Cell service with solitude: Unlike many backcountry experiences, communication remains possible. As one visitor reports, "True Dispersed Camping with the added benefit of cell coverage. Spots are very well spaced out."
Convenient water access: Some areas provide non-potable water that can be filtered or used for non-consumption purposes. A camper explains, "Only a mile drive to a pond for water for camp showers and putting out fires."
Quick access from major routes: Dead Pump Jack camping area works well for travelers needing an overnight stop. According to a camper: "Not to far off the beaten path but just far enough. I wouldn't bring anything towed or longer than a B van since there are some major ruts."
What you should know
Water requirements: No potable water exists on site. One camper at 5 Mile Camp Primitive Dispersed Camping advises, "Come prepared it's fully primitive but there are spots all up and down the Cross Timbers Trail you can either boat or backpack too."
Weather considerations: Exposed sites can experience significant wind. A camper reports, "It did get rather windy but I was on top of the hill. Live and learn."
Road conditions vary: Road quality deteriorates quickly after rain. A visitor advises, "The coordinates bring you to what looks like a driveway that has signs for no trespassing and beware of dogs."
Pack out trash: Previous visitors sometimes leave debris. One camper observed, "Great area that was remote, but easy to get to with few others around. Found a site with beautiful views, but previous visitors left behind debris - if you use, please practice pack in/out principals!"
Tips for camping with families
Visit nearby water sources: While main camping areas lack facilities, nearby sites offer basic amenities. One camper mentions, "No bathrooms but there are some at tadra and black creek. There is also water available at those campsite but it's not potable so pack water in or bring a filtration system."
Plan for livestock encounters: Children should understand proper behavior around grazing animals. A camper shares, "We stumbled upon this dispersed camping area after driving forest service roads for a while. I would NOT recommend taking any kind of trailer or motorhome down these roads and to this spot."
Prepare for primitive camping: Families need to bring all essentials. A visitor notes, "Very remote dispersed. Great camping for north central Texas. The sites are a good distance between them. You can drive along the roads and look for them."
Tips from RVers
Scout before committing: Large rigs should verify site suitability before entering. One RVer recommends, "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). Once inside you could tell there'd been recent rain but the wet areas were easily avoided."
Consider boondocking preparation: The lack of hookups requires self-sufficiency. According to a camper, "This was my first experience boondocking. Absolutely loved the location! Not too far from town if you need something. There is also a water dispensary in Decatur which is nice and convenient!"
Select level sites carefully: Most areas have uneven terrain. A visitor advises, "Sites are spacious and we soon found a pretty great vista view from which the spectacular sunset was just a great bonus."
