Tent campsites near Denton, Texas range from free dispersed sites to established campgrounds with basic amenities. The LBJ National Grassland, located northwest of Denton, covers over 20,000 acres of mixed prairie and woodland terrain with elevation changes of 600-1100 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 95-100°F, while spring and fall camping offers more moderate 60-85°F daytime conditions.
What to do
Hiking and mountain biking trails: At Erwin Park in McKinney, campers can access approximately 9 miles of well-maintained trails. According to James_TrueZoneCoaching, "The trail network is about 9 miles and maintained by DORBA, these trails flood easily after rain so check the DORBA website before making the trip. The trails are straight forward and not super technical."
Horseback riding: Tadra Point Trailhead & Campground in the LBJ National Grassland provides equestrian facilities. "Plenty of poles for tying horses and there is water trofts for them but the water looked pretty disgusting. May want to think about bringing several gallons of water," notes Mesha P.
Kayaking and paddleboarding: Take advantage of lakeside camping at Sycamore Bend Park, which sits directly on Lake Lewisville. Hannah F. describes it as "Really nice park right on the lake... Great for hammocking, kayaking, paddle boarding etc."
What campers like
Accessibility from urban areas: Many camping spots near Denton provide quick escapes from city life. One camper at Meadowmere Park & Campground called it a "Hidden Gem!" noting "We really enjoyed this camp space. Peaceful, open, spacious and super nice management and staff."
Privacy between sites: Several campgrounds offer well-spaced sites. At Erwin Park, Jimbo E. observed that "It was a well kept secret with spacious tent sites, picnic areas and hiking trails."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The natural grassland setting allows for wildlife encounters. Riley W. described Erwin Park's soundscape: "The only sound other than bird song is the occasional moo and some coyote yips in the distance."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Summer camping requires preparation for heat and insects. At Black Creek Lake Campground, Crystal C. advises, "Bug Spray is a must!! For some reason there are HUGE mosquitos so make sure to remember your spray otherwise you will itching all night."
Bathroom facilities vary widely: Many primitive sites have minimal or no facilities. At Little Elm Park, Joshua O. notes: "Electric hookups for RV generally a small area first come first serve.... 5 dollars per tent....restrooms and park lights.... stores nearby..... no showers."
Payment systems: Most camping areas use self-registration. Crystal C. explains that Black Creek Lake is a "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." She adds, "Bring cash because the kiosk does not accept cards it is a cash only system with no ATM within 10 miles."
Tips for camping with families
Look for playgrounds and open space: Some campgrounds offer family-friendly amenities. Chris K. notes that Sycamore Bend "has a good pavilion with a basketball hoop and good playground equipment" and is "very popular with the boy and cub scout troops."
Consider walk-in distance: Many tent sites require carrying gear from parking areas. Hannah F. mentions at Sycamore Bend Park: "No access to drive to the actual site so I couldn't use my RTT but it's a short walk from where you park."
Safety precautions: Be aware of local wildlife and terrain challenges. Crystal C. advises at Black Creek Lake NF Campground: "During summer rattlesnakes are around in taller grass so avoid unmaintained areas. Most areas are well kept however there are outlying areas and some primitive trails which I would avoid during these times."
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: Many camping areas near Denton have restrictions for larger RVs. At Lyndon B. Johnson National Grassland Dispersed Camping, Michelle T. cautions: "I would NOT recommend taking any kind of trailer or motorhome down these roads and to this spot. To give you an idea- we drove a Toyota 4Runner and a small utility trailer with a roof top tent on it."
Overnight transit options: For those passing through, Michele A. recommends LBJ Grasslands: "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."
Limited hookups and amenities: Even campgrounds that allow RVs often have minimal services. Taylin B. observes that Sycamore Bend Park offers "no electricity, water, or showers" despite the $20 nightly fee.
