Primitive camping near Newark, Texas offers backcountry opportunities within 20,000 acres of LBJ National Grasslands. Summer temperatures frequently exceed 95°F, with winter lows occasionally dropping below freezing. Despite proximity to Fort Worth, these dispersed sites provide isolation in prairie terrain punctuated by rolling hills and scattered ponds.
What to do
Fishing at nearby ponds: The grasslands contain numerous small lakes accessible from camping areas. According to one Hunter Park visitor, "The lake is gorgeous... The fish are active" and multiple anglers frequently visit the pier throughout the day.
Wildlife viewing: Cattle grazing is common throughout the grasslands, creating unique photography opportunities. A camper at LBJ National Grasslands Forest Road 904 Dispersed Camping reports, "Lots of steers grazing around the area and right up to the RV most mornings."
Night sky observation: The distance from urban centers creates excellent stargazing conditions during clear nights. One Forest Road 904 visitor advises, "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."
What campers like
Site separation: Unlike many crowded campgrounds, these dispersed areas offer substantial privacy. A recent visitor to Lyndon B. Johnson National Grassland Dispersed Camping noted the "Sites are spacious and we soon found a pretty great vista view from which the spectacular sunset was just a great bonus."
Extended stays: The remote setting and free camping make the area suitable for longer visits. According to one camper at Forest Road 904, it offers "True Dispersed Camping with the added benefit of cell coverage. Spots are very well spaced out. Only a mile drive to a pond for water for camp showers and putting out fires."
Minimal light pollution: The darkness allows for exceptional night sky viewing. A camper mentioned Forest Road 904 has "Remote, quiet, simple beauty. Easy access, cool area. Worth checking out for a low profile weekender or hike."
What you should know
Water availability: No potable water exists at grassland sites. One Forest Road 904 camper advises, "Bring a shovel and TP! About a half hour to town with all amenities."
Variable road conditions: Access varies significantly between sites. A visitor to Dead Pump Jack warns, "I wouldn't bring anything towed or longer than a B van since there are some major ruts no trespassing signs."
Seasonal facilities: Some locations have seasonal bathroom access. At Hunter Park, a camper noted, "The bathrooms were closed but they supplied a porta potty and the nearest gas station is only about two minutes away."
Tips for camping with families
Proximity to civilization: Some sites balance wilderness experience with nearby conveniences. A visitor to Hunter Park commented, "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."
Shade considerations: Tree cover varies significantly between sites. A Hunter Park camper cautions, "If you are car camping or tent camping, be wary about the fact that there will be little to no shade."
Wildlife encounters: Children may enjoy spotting various animals. A Forest Road 904 camper reported, "See deer, armadillos, hogs, and birds."
Tips from RVers
Scout before parking: Large rigs require careful site selection. One camper at LBJ National Grasslands advised, "We parked our 36' Class A on the side of FR 904, just inside the gate, unhooked our Cherokee and went to scope out the area."
Cell service quality: Connectivity varies by location and carrier. One visitor reported, "AT&T coverage was fairly good here, generally varying between 1-3 Bars of LTE service, with speeds up to 4.5 MB/s."
Navigation preparation: GPS reliability can be spotty. A camper suggests, "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."
