Best Dispersed Camping near Newark, TX

Dispersed camping opportunities near Newark, Texas include several free primitive sites within the LBJ National Grasslands. Forest Road 904 provides access to approximately 22 established dispersed sites with existing fire rings and spacious separation between campsites. The Lyndon B. Johnson National Grassland Dispersed Camping area features true boondocking with no facilities but excellent privacy. Hunter Park, located near Granbury, offers free waterfront camping with picnic tables, trash collection, and vault toilets or portable facilities depending on the season.

These primitive camping areas require self-sufficiency. No potable water exists at the grassland sites, though non-potable water is available at Tadra and Black Creek campgrounds for fire management. Cell service varies throughout the region, with generally reliable coverage at most sites. According to reviews, cattle frequently graze throughout the grasslands, and wildlife sightings include deer, armadillos, hogs, and numerous bird species. Several campers noted the exceptional quiet, with one stating, "You won't hear anyone besides the wildlife at night."

Road conditions vary significantly between locations. Forest Road 904 features well-maintained gravel roads suitable for most vehicles. Larger rigs should scout sites before committing, as turning around can be difficult in some areas. The Dead Pump Jack site has significant ruts and is not recommended for trailers or vehicles longer than a small van. Hunter Park provides paved access and a convenient loop design that eliminates the need for backing. Pack-in/pack-out principles apply at all sites, and visitors should prepare for primitive conditions with no hookups, no drinking water, and limited facilities. Fire restrictions may apply seasonally.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Newark, Texas (4)

    1. LBJ National Grasslands Forest Road 904 Dispersed Camping

    11 Reviews
    Alvord, TX
    26 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. Lyndon B. Johnson National Grassland Dispersed Camping

    3 Reviews
    Alvord, TX
    24 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."

    3. Dead Pump Jack

    1 Review
    Alvord, TX
    24 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"

    4. Hunter Park

    4 Reviews
    Granbury, TX
    41 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!"

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Newark, TX

17 Reviews of 4 Newark Campgrounds


  • Jesse P.
    Feb. 13, 2022

    Hunter Park

    Great spot for fishing / boating

    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. Plenty of light, maybe to much if you're a dark sky's person but there are nice spots with trees. No electricity or water. Bring your own stuff and come prepared. If you forget something then no worries you are close to the city.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 2, 2021

    Lyndon B. Johnson National Grassland Dispersed Camping

    Local area we stumbled upon- TREAT IT WELL

    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. 

    To give you an idea- we drove a Toyota 4Runner and a small utility trailer with a roof top tent on it. Though this is some room down there, if someone else is there, I would move on. 

    There were some locals who came through and talked to us for a while when they were fishing in the lake. They said that they had been coming to this spot for 30+ years and rarely saw anyone else there. So this is my plea- if you come here, be respectful and clean up after yourself. 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.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 8, 2025

    Lyndon B. Johnson National Grassland Dispersed Camping

    Worked Well for Overnight

    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. Taking the Trinity exit north off the loop around Decatur and using the navigation to the LBJ Grasslands to Park Rd 904 access was easy (& scenic). 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. Will make a note to use this stop en route out of the central part of the state going west for future trips.

  • sThe Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 24, 2024

    Hunter Park

    Pretty!

    A cute little park with lots of picnic tables, a pier, and a huge field. The bathrooms were closed but they supplied a porta potty and the nearest gas station is only about two minutes away. Very connected to civilization and it was very well kept. 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! The fish are active. The lake is gorgeous, but if you are car camping or tent camping, be wary about the fact that there will be little to no shade. Plenty of space for a big rig, and the whole thing is designed in a loop, so no backing out necessary! Plus all driving areas to and from the campsite, as well as in it, are paved.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    May. 2, 2024

    LBJ National Grasslands Forest Road 904 Dispersed Camping

    Very remote

    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. 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. Only saw 3 other cameras while we were here. Great hiking.

  • Alejandro G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 4, 2021

    Hunter Park

    Been coming here for years!

    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.

  • Jennifer N.
    Jan. 9, 2023

    LBJ National Grasslands Forest Road 904 Dispersed Camping

    Nice boondocking!

    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! There are cattle on the property which was really nice to watch! It did get rather windy but I was on top of the hill. Live and learn.


Guide to Newark

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Newark, Texas, where you can immerse yourself in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. Enjoy the freedom of choosing your own spot while taking in the serene landscapes.

Unique Wildlife Encounters for Dispersed Campers

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Newark, Texas

Fishing and Boating Adventures While Free Camping Near Newark

  • For those who enjoy water activities, Hunter Park offers free camping near the water, making it an ideal spot for fishing and boating enthusiasts looking to unwind by the lake.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Newark, TX?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Newark, TX is LBJ National Grasslands Forest Road 904 Dispersed Camping with a 4.1-star rating from 11 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Newark, TX?

TheDyrt.com has all 4 dispersed camping locations near Newark, TX, with real photos and reviews from campers.