Dispersed camping options surround Pilot Point, Texas, with most situated within the Lyndon B. Johnson National Grasslands. This 20,250-acre public land features rolling prairie terrain mixed with oak mottes and seasonal streams at elevations between 700-900 feet. Free camping near Pilot Point typically experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 95°F, while winter nights can drop below freezing.
What to do
Hiking trails: The Cross Timbers Trail offers a challenging 14-mile point-to-point route along Lake Texoma's shoreline. "Cross Timber's Trail is technical for the region and is a great place to do a gear shake down and train for those longer through hikes in more mountainous regions," notes one Eagle's Roost Campsite visitor.
Wildlife watching: Early morning and dusk provide optimal wildlife viewing times. "See deer, armadillos, hogs, and birds," reports a camper at LBJ National Grasslands Forest Road 904 Dispersed Camping. Bring binoculars and maintain distance from grazing cattle that share the grasslands.
Night sky observation: Light pollution is minimal in certain areas of the grasslands. One visitor at Lyndon B. Johnson National Grassland mentions, "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." Summer months provide clearest viewing conditions.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: The dispersed nature of camping areas allows for secluded experiences. "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," according to a recent visitor to LBJ National Grasslands Forest Road 904.
Natural fire rings: Many established sites come with basic amenities. "Most areas have rock campfires setups that people have made," reports one camper at Lyndon B. Johnson National Grassland Dispersed Camping. These fire rings help contain campfires and reduce environmental impact.
Elevated camping spots: Higher terrain offers advantages beyond views. "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," shares one camper describing their experience at Forest Road 904 Dispersed Camping. Weekday visitors consistently report lower occupancy rates.
What you should know
Water availability: There are no potable water sources at most dispersed camping areas. "No bathrooms but there are some at tadra and black creek. There is also water available at those campsite but it's not potable so pack water in or bring a filtration system," advises a camper at Forest Road 904.
Navigation challenges: Forest service roads can be confusing without preparation. "Download maps before getting here. Cell is not the best," recommends a visitor to LBJ National Grasslands. Offline maps applications are essential as service fluctuates throughout the area.
Private property boundaries: Some access points may appear restricted. A visitor to 5 Mile Camp Primitive Dispersed Camping notes, "The coordinates bring you to what looks like a driveway that has signs for no trespassing and beware of dogs." Verify current access information before traveling.
Tips for camping with families
Vehicle selection: Standard passenger vehicles may struggle on forest roads. A camper at Dead Pump Jack advises, "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." High clearance vehicles perform best after rain events.
Supply runs: Decatur provides the closest full services. "About a half hour to town with all amenities," reports a camper at LBJ National Grasslands. Plan accordingly for ice, groceries, and fuel needs during longer stays.
Site selection: Exposure to elements varies by location. "It did get rather windy but I was on top of the hill. Live and learn," shares one camper at Forest Road 904, indicating that sites in valleys or with natural windbreaks offer more protection during weather events.
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: RV camping requires careful planning due to road conditions. "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," explains one RV camper at LBJ National Grasslands Forest Road 904. Scouting ahead prevents difficult turnaround situations.
Boondocking preparation: Without hookups, self-contained capabilities are essential. "This was my first experience boondocking. There is also a water dispensary in Decatur which is nice and convenient!" notes a Forest Road 904 visitor. Filling water tanks prior to arrival is recommended, with Decatur serving as the nearest water resupply point approximately 30 minutes away.
