Best Dispersed Camping near Fort Worth, TX

Fort Worth has several dispersed camping areas for a basic outdoor experience. The City Park Campground and Area State Park both allow backcountry camping with no facilities. You'll need to bring everything you need and follow Leave No Trace practices while camping. All sites must be at least 100 feet from water and roads. You can stay up to 14 days in one spot. Many of these camping areas have rough roads that require trucks or SUVs with good clearance. Pack in all your supplies and be prepared to carry out your trash when you leave. Fire bans are common in dry weather, so check current rules before planning to have a campfire. Bears and other wildlife may be around, so store food properly. The Fort Worth Recreation Area gives you a real wilderness camping feel with few neighbors. When you camp in these spots, you're going without amenities - that's the point of the experience.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Fort Worth, Texas (5)

    1. LBJ National Grasslands Forest Road 904 Dispersed Camping

    11 Reviews
    Alvord, TX
    42 miles
    Website
    +1 (940) 627-5475

    "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."

    2. Hunter Park

    4 Reviews
    Granbury, TX
    36 miles
    Website
    +1 (817) 573-3212

    "Free camping near the water. Can't beat that with a stick. We came in February and it was cold that night. The restrooms were closed but they had some porta potties out there."

    "Lots of people seemed to know about it, there were around 15 people who camped there last night and ten or so cars that came through for the fishing pier. If you’re a fisher, this is the place to be!"

    3. Lyndon B. Johnson National Grassland Dispersed Camping

    3 Reviews
    Alvord, TX
    40 miles
    Website

    "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."

    4. Dead Pump Jack

    1 Review
    Alvord, TX
    41 miles

    "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"

    5. Chisholm Trail Park

    2 Reviews
    Whitney Lake, TX
    46 miles
    Website
    +1 (254) 694-3189

    "$10/night honor system dropbox at entrance. No reservations or anything, just pull up and find a spot."

    "Secluded primitive camping is nice. Also good fishing right on the river. Amazing place if you enjoy anything from fishing, hiking, picnics, volleyball and nature."

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Fort Worth, TX

19 Reviews of 5 Fort Worth Campgrounds



Guide to Fort Worth

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Fort Worth, Texas, where nature lovers can enjoy free camping experiences away from the crowds. These spots offer a chance to connect with the outdoors while indulging in activities like fishing, hiking, and simply relaxing in serene surroundings.

Dispersed campers should check out Hunter Park

  • Located in Granbury, Hunter Park offers free camping right by the water, making it a perfect spot for fishing and boating enthusiasts.
  • This area allows campfires and pets, providing a relaxed atmosphere for families and friends to enjoy nature together.
  • With no designated sites, campers can choose their own spot, ensuring a unique experience each time you visit.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Fort Worth, Texas

  • When visiting LBJ National Grasslands Forest Road 904 Dispersed Camping, be prepared for a remote experience with no amenities; pack in everything you need and practice Leave No Trace principles.
  • Download maps before heading out, as cell service can be spotty in the area, especially when exploring the many dispersed sites available.
  • Keep an eye out for wildlife while camping; the area is known for its natural beauty and diverse animal sightings.

Great activities while free camping near Fort Worth

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find free dispersed camping areas near Fort Worth?

Several free dispersed camping options exist near Fort Worth. Hunter Park offers free waterfront camping with no designated sites (first-come, first-served). The park features picnic tables, a pier, and portable toilets when permanent facilities are closed. Another option is LBJ National Grasslands Forest Road 904 Dispersed Camping, offering remote dispersed camping with established sites along well-maintained gravel roads. This area provides fire rings and scenic views but no facilities, so be prepared for true pack-in/pack-out camping. Both locations are relatively close to Fort Worth and offer peaceful natural settings for cost-free camping experiences.

Are dogs allowed at free camping sites around Fort Worth?

Dogs are generally permitted at free camping areas around Fort Worth, but specific rules may apply. At Lyndon B. Johnson National Grassland Dispersed Camping, dogs are allowed but should be kept on leash or under voice control as cattle roam the property. The grasslands offer a pet-friendly environment with open spaces for dogs to enjoy. When camping with pets in dispersed areas, always follow Leave No Trace principles by picking up waste and keeping dogs from disturbing wildlife or other campers. Remember that even at free sites, responsible pet ownership is essential, especially in shared natural spaces without designated pet areas or waste facilities.

Is public land available for free camping around Fort Worth?

Yes, public land is available for free camping around Fort Worth, primarily on federally managed lands. The LBJ National Grasslands offer extensive public land for dispersed camping. This USDA Forest Service managed area provides multiple sites along forest service roads where camping is permitted without fees. The grasslands feature beautiful natural surroundings with reasonable privacy between sites. While accessible, some roads may be challenging for large RVs or trailers - high-clearance vehicles are recommended for certain areas. When camping on public lands, always follow dispersed camping regulations including pack-in/pack-out principles and observing fire restrictions. The grasslands are located approximately 60 miles northwest of Fort Worth near Decatur.

What primitive tent camping options exist in the Fort Worth area?

The Fort Worth area offers several primitive tent camping options for those seeking a more rustic experience. Chisholm Trail Park provides secluded primitive camping for just $10/night using an honor system dropbox at the entrance. The park features flat tent spots, trees suitable for hammock camping, and excellent fishing opportunities right on the river. You'll fall asleep to the sounds of nature including crickets and occasional coyote howls. Each spot has its own character, making it ideal for tent campers looking for a natural experience. No reservations are needed; simply arrive and find an available spot. The park balances primitive camping with just enough amenities to stay comfortable.