Tent camping near Graford, Texas centers around both the western edge of the Cross Timbers ecoregion and eastern portions of the Rolling Plains. The terrain features a mix of oak woodlands, limestone outcrops, and prairie grasslands, with elevations ranging from 800 to 1,100 feet. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 95°F with high humidity, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons.
What to do
Kayaking access points: Black Creek Lake offers calm waters ideal for paddling, with a public boat launch that accommodates small watercraft. "I would NOT recommend taking any kind of trailer or motorhome down these roads and to this spot," notes a visitor to Lyndon B. Johnson National Grassland Dispersed Camping, where local fishing spots are accessible from primitive roads.
Hiking across varied terrain: The LBJ Grassland trail system connects multiple camping areas with routes suitable for day hikes. "We enjoyed a nice hike in the morning before we headed out," reports a visitor to Tadra Point Trailhead & Campground, where marked trails accommodate both hikers and horseback riders.
Wildlife observation: Early morning and evening hours offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities near camping areas. "I saw some wildlife- deer, an armadillo, and a rabbit," writes a camper about their experience at Lake Mineral Wells State Park, noting these sightings during a 2.5-mile hike to the primitive camping area.
What campers like
Scenic sunset viewpoints: Several dispersed camping areas provide unobstructed views of Texas sunsets. "We soon found a pretty great vista view from which the spectacular sunset was just a great bonus," writes a visitor to Lyndon B. Johnson National Grassland Dispersed Camping.
Quiet weekday stays: Mid-week camping offers a more solitary experience at many campgrounds near Graford. A visitor to Black Creek Lake NF Campground reported, "Last time I went was mid-week. The temperature was soaring but a nice breeze off the lake coupled with the shady trees made for a very nice experience."
Well-maintained facilities: Despite their rustic nature, several campgrounds receive regular maintenance. At Tadra Point, a camper noted the area is "Well maintained. There is no drinking water here so you will need to bring some in."
What you should know
Limited cell service: Connectivity is spotty throughout the camping areas near Graford. At Tadra Point, a camper reported, "Our hot spot on our cell phone was slow since we only had a couple bars, but we were able to get our work done."
Water requirements: Most primitive camping areas require bringing all drinking water. "There is no drinking water here so you will need to bring some in," notes a camper at Tadra Point Trailhead & Campground.
Payment systems: Many campgrounds operate on self-service payment systems. "This is 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," explains a camper about Black Creek Lake.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer basic play equipment for children. Black Creek Lake includes "a small playground and picnic tables at this site as well as a public boat launch."
Wildlife safety: Local wildlife requires proper food storage and awareness. "During summer rattlesnakes are around in taller grass so avoid unmaintained areas," advises a visitor to Black Creek Lake NF Campground.
Tarp necessity: Ground conditions can affect comfort for tent campers. "Pack A Tarp - during certain times of year small burrs can be out in this area and a tarp can keep these from poking into your tent base and make for a more comfortable stay," recommends a camper at Black Creek Lake.
Tips from RVers
Road access limitations: Many primitive camping areas have restricted vehicle access. "I would NOT recommend taking any kind of trailer or motorhome down these roads and to this spot," cautions a camper about certain areas in LBJ Grassland.
Overnight transit stops: The grasslands provide convenient camping for those traveling through the area. "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," writes an RV camper about their experience at LBJ Grassland.
Trailer accessibility: Some campgrounds have better road access than others. A camper noted about Tadra Point, "We weren't sure about the accessibility to the trailhead road with our 23 foot travel trailer so we opted to stay off road 904, where the horse trailers park, since there were some nice flat spots."
