Best Tent Camping near Fritch, TX
Free tent camping near Fritch, Texas is available at McBride Canyon and Mullinaw Creek Camp within Lake Meredith National Recreation Area. These primitive tent sites are approximately 10 miles southwest of town and offer basic amenities suitable for tent campers seeking a no-frills outdoor experience. Fortress Cliff Primitive in Palo Duro Canyon State Park, located further south, provides additional tent camping options with more developed facilities.
Tent sites at McBride Canyon feature picnic tables with shelters, fire rings, and access to pit toilets. Most areas lack drinking water, so campers must bring their own supply. The 14-day stay limit applies during regular seasons, extending to 30 days during hunting season. The access road is paved until reaching the campground, where it transitions to sand and loose gravel. Terrain is generally flat with cottonwood trees providing shade along the perimeter. Visitors should be prepared for limited cell reception and potentially dusty conditions, especially during dry periods.
The tent camping experience at these locations offers seclusion and natural surroundings. McBride Canyon provides access to the Mullinaw Trails System for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, though off-road vehicles are prohibited. Sites are spread apart to enhance privacy and provide space for multiple tents. Weather conditions vary significantly by season, with summer bringing intense heat and significant insect activity, particularly mosquitoes. The area is known for its stargazing opportunities due to minimal light pollution. A recent review noted, "This is a pretty good campground especially since it is free. You have picnic tables with shelters for the tables, fire ring, trash and a pit toilet. You have a lot of shade around the perimeter of the campground which makes it nice."
