Primitive camping near Euless, Texas primarily centers on the Lyndon B. Johnson National Grasslands, located in Wise County approximately 45 miles northwest. The grasslands encompass over 20,000 acres of mixed prairie and woodland terrain with elevations ranging from 700-950 feet. Summer temperatures typically exceed 90°F, while winter nights can drop below freezing, with spring and fall offering milder camping conditions between 60-80°F.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Hunter Park in Granbury provides accessible shoreline fishing with active fish populations. According to a visitor, "This is 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."
Wildlife observation: The LBJ National Grasslands support diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. One camper noted, "See deer, armadillos, hogs, and birds. Bring a shovel and TP! About a half hour to town with all amenities."
Hiking trails: LBJ National Grasslands Forest Road 904 Dispersed Camping offers multiple hiking trails throughout the property. A recent visitor shared, "Downloadable hiking maps availability on other apps. Only saw 3 other cameras while we were here. Great hiking."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: The dispersed camping areas offer substantial space between sites. At Lyndon B. Johnson National Grassland Dispersed Camping, campers appreciate the seclusion: "We stumbled upon this dispersed camping area after driving forest service roads for a while... Though this is some room down there, if someone else is there, I would move on."
Quiet surroundings: The remote nature creates a peaceful camping experience. One visitor to LBJ National Grasslands noted, "Remote, quiet, simple beauty. Easy access, cool area. Worth checking out for a low profile weekender or hike."
Scenic vistas: Many campsites feature panoramic views. A recent visitor to Dead Pump Jack reported, "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 availability: No potable water exists at dispersed sites. A camper at LBJ National Grasslands advised, "There is also water available at those campsite but it's not potable so pack water in or bring a filtration system."
Cell service: Connectivity varies throughout the grasslands. As one camper reported, "True 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."
Road conditions: Access roads range from paved to rough dirt tracks. One camper at Hunter Park noted, "Plus all driving areas to and from the campsite, as well as in it, are paved."
Bathroom facilities: Most dispersed sites lack toilets. A recent visitor shared, "The bathrooms were closed but they supplied a porta potty and the nearest gas station is only about two minutes away."
Tips for camping with families
Prepare for wildlife encounters: Cattle and wildlife roam freely. A camper observed, "Lots of steers grazing around the area and right up to the RV most mornings."
Pack adequate water: With no reliable water sources, families need to bring sufficient supplies. One visitor shared, "There is also a water dispensary in Decatur which is nice and convenient!"
Download maps beforehand: Signal can be unreliable for navigation. A recent visitor to LBJ Grasslands advised, "Download maps before getting here. Cell is not the best. No bathrooms, water, etc. Pack in/pack out."
Tips from RVers
Scout before parking: Larger rigs should identify suitable spots before committing. An RVer recommended, "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."
Consider rig size limitations: Many dispersed areas have constraints. A visitor cautioned, "I would NOT recommend taking any kind of trailer or motorhome down these roads and to this spot."
Look for level sites: The terrain can be uneven. One RVer noted, "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."
