Dispersed camping near Azle, Texas provides a unique backcountry experience in the cross-timbers ecological region, where prairies and oak woodlands create diverse habitats. This transition zone between eastern forests and western plains supports distinctive wildlife communities not found elsewhere in Texas. Winter temperatures typically range from 30-60°F while summer averages 75-95°F with high humidity, requiring campers to prepare for seasonal variations.
What to do
Wildlife observation opportunities: At LBJ National Grasslands, campers regularly spot armadillos, deer, and birds of prey. One visitor at LBJ National Grasslands Forest Road 904 Dispersed Camping reported, "See deer, armadillos, hogs, and birds. Bring a shovel and TP! About a half hour to town with all amenities."
Fishing access: Hunter Park offers shore fishing without requiring lengthy hikes or special equipment. A regular visitor noted, "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."
Sunset viewing: The elevated terrain at some dispersed sites provides excellent sunset viewing opportunities. A traveler at Lyndon B. Johnson National Grassland Dispersed Camping shared, "Once inside you could tell there'd been recent rain but the wet areas were easily avoided. Sites are spacious and we soon found a pretty great vista view from which the spectacular sunset was just a great bonus."
What campers like
Relative solitude: Despite proximity to the Dallas-Fort Worth area, many sites offer genuine seclusion. At LBJ National Grasslands Forest Road 904, a camper explained, "Very 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."
Ease of access: Most dispersed sites require minimal specialized equipment or vehicles. A camper mentioned, "Roads to campsite are well maintained gravel, fire rings, and good views. Was in a roof top tent but had no problem with wind noise, good cell service."
Cattle grazing encounters: Free-range cattle add to the authentic grasslands experience. One RVer observed, "Lots of steers grazing around the area and right up to the RV most mornings. AT&T coverage was fairly good here, generally varying between 1-3 Bars of LTE service, with speeds up to 4.5 MB/s."
What you should know
Water availability: No potable water exists at most sites, requiring advance planning. A visitor to Hunter Park advised, "No electricity or water. Bring your own stuff and come prepared. If you forget something then no worries you are close to the city."
Vehicle access limitations: Some sites have specific vehicle restrictions. At Dead Pump Jack, a camper warned, "I wouldn't bring anything towed or longer than a B van since there are some major ruts no trespassing signs."
Fluctuating privacy levels: Traffic patterns vary by season and day of week. One camper observed, "Only saw 3 other cameras while we were here. Great hiking," while another noted increased weekend occupancy: "There were a number of established and very widely spaced campsites along the FR, each with a fire pit, though all but a few were occupied on the weekend."
Tips for camping with families
Download maps beforehand: Cell service can be unreliable for navigation. A visitor recommended, "Download maps before getting here. Cell is not the best. No bathrooms, water, etc. Pack in/pack out. Downloadable hiking maps availability on other apps."
Safety considerations: Isolated sites might not be suitable for all families. One negative experience was reported: "DO NOT COME HERE ALOT OF HARASSMENT ALOT OF PEOPLE MESSING WITH U TERRIBLE EXPERIENCE DONT GO."
Weather preparedness: Open grassland sites offer limited natural protection. A camper noted, "It did get rather windy but I was on top of the hill. Live and learn."
Tips from RVers
Scouting recommendation: Larger rigs should scout before committing to sites. An experienced RVer at LBJ National Grasslands Forest Road 904 Dispersed Camping advised, "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."
Water resupply options: Nearby towns offer water resupply opportunities. A boondocker shared, "This was my first experience boondocking. Absolutely loved the location! Not too far from town if you need something. There is also a water dispensary in Decatur which is nice and convenient!"
Site selection strategy: Look for pull-through options with adequate clearance. An RVer with a 36-foot Class A reported, "Several sites were even pull-throughs. We did find a nice pull-through, overlooking the valley to the NW. We had the whole area to our selves on Sunday and Monday."
