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LBJ National Grasslands offers free dispersed camping on Forest Road 904 approximately 30 miles northwest of Denton, Texas. The area features widely spaced primitive sites with established fire rings but no facilities, water, or trash service. Roads are primarily hard-packed gravel, generally accessible for most vehicles, though some sections may become difficult after rain. Visitors should bring all necessary supplies and follow pack-in, pack-out principles.
Multiple campsites are scattered throughout the grasslands, providing privacy and natural settings. A visitor noted, "Spots are very well spaced out. Only a mile drive to a pond for water for camp showers and putting out fires." The area supports tent and RV camping, though larger rigs should exercise caution on narrower sections. Wildlife sightings are common, including deer, armadillos, and grazing cattle. Cell service is generally available but varies in strength throughout the area. Fire restrictions may apply seasonally, so checking current regulations before arrival is advised.
"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."
"Remote, quiet, simple beauty. Easy access, cool area. Worth checking out for a low profile weekender or hike."
"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. "
"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."
"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 no no trespassing signs"
"There are lots of open areas that are flat for you to camp out overnight. The road coming in is gravel, but in great shape. We parked in the shade and it’s quite pleasant outside."
"I stayed in my hammock and buddy in his tent back in Nov 2019. Stopped just before a cold front with rain hit and built a fire."
"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."
"Cross Timber’s Trail is technical for the region and is a 14 mile point to point trail along the shore of Lake Texoma."
ScoutIts beautiful. The bathrooms were closed, due to being out of order. The camp sites and view were fantastic. Management reimbursed me for our stay due to the bathrooms.
ScoutIt is private property. There is not a way down to the lake. It’s fenced off and security cameras on the grounds.
ScoutIt is private property. It is fenced off and no way to the lake. Also, security cameras on the grounds.
GuideWas 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). 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. Will make a note to use this stop en route out of the central part of the state going west for future trips.
TravelerThe coordinates bring you to what looks like a driveway that has signs for no trespassing and beware of dogs. After looking at the map, it looks like that’s the only way to get back there, so I’m assuming the homeowner who shares that road put those signs to keep people away.
ScoutRemote 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. Download maps before getting here. Cell is not the best. No bathrooms, water, etc. Pack in/pack out. Downloadable hiking maps availability on other apps. Only saw 3 other cameras while we were here. Great hiking.
TravelerDO NOT COME HERE ALOT OF HARASSMENT ALOT OF PEOPLE MESSING WITH U TERRIBLE EXPERIENCE DONT GO
GuideThis 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! There are cattle on the property which was really nice to watch! It did get rather windy but I was on top of the hill. Live and learn.
TravelerTrue Dispersed Camping with the added benefit of cell coverage. Spots are very well spaced out. Only a mile drive to a pond for water for camp showers and putting out fires. See deer, armadillos, hogs, and birds. Bring a shovel and TP! About a half hour to town with all amenities.
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.
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."
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.
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.
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."
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."
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find boondocking sites around Denton?
LBJ National Grasslands Forest Road 904 Dispersed Camping offers excellent boondocking opportunities near Denton. This area features well-maintained gravel roads with multiple established sites spread out for privacy. There are approximately 22 identified sites along the roads, each with fire rings and scenic views. The location offers a good balance of remoteness while remaining relatively close to Decatur for supplies, including a convenient water dispensary. Cell service is generally available but can be spotty. The area accommodates various camping setups from tents to some RVs, though downloading maps beforehand is recommended as navigation can be challenging without cell coverage.
Are there secluded tent camping spots in Denton?
For secluded tent camping near Denton, 5 Mile Camp Primitive Dispersed Camping offers a genuine backcountry experience along the shores of Lake Texoma. This primitive area is accessible via the Cross Timbers Trail, making it ideal for backpackers seeking solitude. The location provides numerous secluded spots perfect for hammock or tent camping with beautiful lake views. Be prepared for a fully primitive experience with no facilities, requiring complete self-sufficiency. Note that access can be tricky - follow official maps carefully as some nearby private properties have no trespassing signs. This is true wilderness camping that rewards those willing to hike in with stunning natural surroundings.
Is there free dispersed camping near Denton?
Yes, free dispersed camping is available near Denton at Lyndon B. Johnson National Grassland Dispersed Camping. This area offers primitive camping with no facilities, following pack-in/pack-out principles. The grassland provides multiple spots accessible via forest service roads, though high-clearance vehicles are recommended as roads can be challenging for trailers and motorhomes. Located a reasonable drive from Denton, this public land offers true dispersed camping experience with no fees. Remember to follow dispersed camping regulations, staying in established sites and practicing Leave No Trace principles.
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