Dispersed camping near Benbrook Lake offers rustic outdoor experiences within 30 miles of Fort Worth. The grasslands and lakefront areas provide tent and vehicle camping options with varied terrain throughout the year. Seasonal considerations impact water levels and ground conditions, with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 95°F and winter overnight lows sometimes dropping below freezing.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Anglers visiting Chisholm Trail Park can access prime spots directly on the river. One visitor noted, "Secluded primitive camping is nice. Also good fishing right on the river. Amazing place if you enjoy anything from fishing, hiking, picnics, volleyball and nature."
Wildlife observation: Early mornings and evenings at LBJ National Grassland provide opportunities to spot local wildlife. Campers should maintain quiet hours from sunset to sunrise for optimal viewing conditions. A camper at LBJ National Grassland shared, "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."
Sunset viewing: Several dispersed camping areas offer unobstructed western views for sunset observation. A visitor at LBJ National Grassland mentioned, "We soon found a pretty great vista view from which the spectacular sunset was just a great bonus."
What campers like
Water proximity: Sites directly adjacent to water bodies provide both recreational access and natural ambiance. A camper at Chisholm Trail Park shared, "Fall asleep to the sound of crickets and jumping fish, occasional coyote howls. Each spot has its own Ramada and picnic table."
Accessibility with seclusion: Many campsites balance convenient access with relative isolation from other campers. According to one review at Hunter Park, "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."
Cell service availability: Certain dispersed camping areas maintain usable cellular connections despite rural settings. A Chisholm Trail Park visitor reported, "2 bars with Verizon! Wrote this from my hammock!"
What you should know
Weather preparation: Summer heat and winter cold require appropriate gear and planning. One camper at Hunter Park advised, "We came in February and it was cold that night. The restrooms were closed but they had some porta potties out there."
Road conditions: Access roads to some dispersed sites may present challenges for certain vehicles. A visitor to Dead Pump Jack cautioned, "I wouldn't bring anything towed or longer than a B van since there are some major ruts."
Proximity to civilization: While offering natural settings, many dispersed sites maintain connections to nearby services. As one Hunter Park camper noted, "Very connected to civilization and it was very well kept. The nearest gas station is only about two minutes away."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection strategy: Families should arrive early to secure locations with adequate space between neighbors. A Hunter Park visitor observed, "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."
Shade availability: Limited tree cover at some sites requires additional sun protection measures. According to one review at Hunter Park, "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."
Activity options: Multiple recreation possibilities help maintain children's interest throughout stays. A Chisholm Trail Park reviewer highlighted, "Amazing place if you enjoy anything from fishing, hiking, picnics, volleyball and nature."
Tips from RVers
Space considerations: RV campers should assess site dimensions before committing, particularly at more popular locations. One Hunter Park visitor noted, "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."
Surface conditions: Recent precipitation can impact site accessibility and stability. A camper at LBJ National Grassland mentioned, "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. Once inside you could tell there'd been recent rain but the wet areas were easily avoided."
Off-grid preparation: Limited services require self-sufficiency. According to one Hunter Park visitor, "No electricity or water. Bring your own stuff and come prepared. If you forget something then no worries you are close to the city."
