LBJ National Grasslands provides free camping near Denton, Texas with 22 identified primitive sites scattered throughout the area. Located in north-central Texas, this dispersed camping destination features a mix of rolling grasslands and wooded areas at elevations between 700-900 feet. Weather can be unpredictable, with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 95°F and occasional severe storms.
What to do
Hiking trails: Several paths wind through the grasslands for day hikes. "Remote dispersed. Great camping for north central Texas. Download maps before getting here. Cell is not the best. Great hiking," notes a visitor to LBJ National Grasslands.
Wildlife observation: Early mornings provide opportunities to see native species. "See deer, armadillos, hogs, and birds," reports one camper. Cattle grazing is common throughout the area, adding to the rural experience.
Stargazing: The remote location offers excellent night sky viewing away from city lights. A camper at Lyndon B. Johnson National Grassland Dispersed Camping suggests: "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
Quiet atmosphere: Many visitors appreciate the solitude. "Remote, quiet, simple beauty. Easy access, cool area. Worth checking out for a low profile weekender or hike," writes one camper about LBJ National Grasslands.
Well-spaced sites: The dispersed camping layout provides privacy. "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. We spotted 22 sites, there may be more," explains a visitor.
Scenic views: Several sites offer panoramic vistas. A visitor to Dead Pump Jack mentioned it was "Not too far off the beaten path but just far enough" and appreciated the location.
What you should know
Access conditions: Roads can become challenging after rainfall. "Though this is some room down there, if someone else is there, I would move on," warns a camper at Lyndon B. Johnson National Grassland Dispersed Camping, adding "I would NOT recommend taking any kind of trailer or motorhome down these roads and to this spot."
Pack-in requirements: No facilities means bringing all supplies. "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," advises a camper.
Site availability: No reservations means planning for alternatives. "We had the whole area to our selves on Sunday and Monday," notes one camper, suggesting weekdays offer better availability.
Tips for camping with families
Prepare for basics: Teach children about primitive camping expectations. "True Dispersed Camping with the added benefit of cell coverage. Only a mile drive to a pond for water for camp showers and putting out fires," explains a visitor to LBJ National Grasslands.
Weather precautions: Summer heat requires extra water and shade. "It did get rather windy but I was on top of the hill. Live and learn," shares a camper about site selection.
Wildlife awareness: Educate children about local animals. A camper at 5 Mile Camp Primitive Dispersed Camping describes it as having an "Amazing backcountry feel on Lake Texoma shores. 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."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Large rigs face significant challenges. "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," suggests one experienced RVer.
Scouting recommendation: Check sites before committing to a location. "If you have a tow vehicle, drop it just inside the gate, leave your RV and go scope out a suitable campsite, as turning around with a large rig is only practical in a couple of locations," advises a visitor.
Leveling challenges: Many sites require adjustment. "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. Once inside you could tell there'd been recent rain but the wet areas were easily avoided," reports a camper who found a "pretty great vista view."
