Lyndon B. Johnson National Grasslands offers primitive dispersed camping opportunities approximately 30 miles northwest of Lewisville Lake. The terrain consists of mixed-grass prairie interspersed with oak forests covering nearly 20,000 acres of public land. Summer temperatures typically exceed 95°F from June through September, while winter nights can drop below freezing from November through February.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Several small ponds throughout the grasslands provide fishing spots for campers seeking freshwater recreation. Recent visitors note the convenient proximity to water sources. "Only a mile drive to a pond for water for camp showers and putting out fires," reports a camper at LBJ National Grasslands Forest Road 904 Dispersed Camping.
Wildlife observation: The grasslands support diverse wildlife including deer, armadillos, wild hogs, and numerous bird species. One camper described their experience: "Great hiking. See deer, armadillos, hogs, and birds." Morning hours provide the best wildlife viewing opportunities when animals are most active.
Stargazing sessions: Light pollution is minimal throughout the grasslands, creating ideal conditions for night sky viewing. "If you are there in the right time of the year, stay out late and turn off your lights - you'll get a night surprise," mentions a visitor at Lyndon B. Johnson National Grassland Dispersed Camping.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Sites are positioned far from each other, providing privacy and a sense of isolation. "Spots are very well spaced out," notes one camper. Another visitor mentions: "Remote dispersed. Great camping for north central Texas. The sites are a good distance between them. We spotted 22 sites, there may be more."
Cell service availability: Despite the remote setting, cellular coverage remains accessible in many areas. A camper reports, "True Dispersed Camping with the added benefit of cell coverage," while another visitor confirms "good cell service" throughout their stay.
Scenic vistas: The rolling grassland landscape offers elevated viewpoints for sunrise and sunset viewing. "We soon found a pretty great vista view from which the spectacular sunset was just a great bonus," shares a camper at Dead Pump Jack. Another visitor describes their experience as having "beautiful views" throughout their stay.
What you should know
Road conditions vary: Access roads can become challenging after rainfall events. "We drove a Toyota 4Runner and a small utility trailer with a roof top tent on it. Though there is some room down there, if someone else is there, I would move on," cautions one visitor. Another warns: "I wouldn't bring anything towed or longer than a B van since there are some major ruts."
Complete self-sufficiency required: No facilities exist in the dispersed areas. As one camper advises: "No bathrooms but there are some at Tadra and Black Creek. There is also water available at those campsites but it's not potable so pack water in or bring a filtration system."
Local information helpful: Downloading maps before arrival helps with navigation. "Download maps before getting here. Cell is not the best," recommends a camper at LBJ Grasslands. Most visitors suggest bringing printed maps as backup for wayfinding.
Tips for camping with families
Early week visits: Weekends can draw more visitors while weekdays offer more solitude. "We had the whole area to ourselves on Sunday and Monday," shares one family, indicating less crowded conditions during early weekdays.
Educational opportunities: The grassland ecosystem provides natural learning experiences for children. Families can explore prairie plant identification, weather patterns, and livestock grazing practices visible throughout the area.
Safety considerations: Grazing livestock frequently approach camping areas. "Lots of steers grazing around the area and right up to the RV most mornings," notes a family camping at LBJ National Grasslands Forest Road 904 Dispersed Camping. Keep food secured and maintain safe distances from all animals.
Tips from RVers
Scouting recommendation: RVers should scout potential sites before driving large vehicles down forest roads. "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," advises one experienced RVer.
Supply planning: Nearest supplies are available in Decatur, requiring advance planning. "Not too far from town if you need something. There is also a water dispensary in Decatur which is nice and convenient!" notes an RV camper, confirming that basic supplies remain accessible with proper planning.
Wind exposure awareness: Open grassland areas can experience significant wind. "It did get rather windy but I was on top of the hill. Live and learn," shares one camper, suggesting positioning RVs in more sheltered locations when possible.
