Tent camping near River Oaks, Texas can be found within the LBJ National Grasslands region, where elevation ranges from 700-1000 feet and summer temperatures regularly exceed 95°F. Most backcountry sites lack shade structures, making early morning and evening activities essential during peak heat months. Weekday arrivals at these dispersed camping locations typically find significantly fewer campers than weekend periods.
What to do
Rock climbing opportunities: Lake Mineral Wells State Park features unique rock formations for climbing enthusiasts. A camper notes, "Very unique rock climbing area. Fun to watch the climbers go up and down. Kayaking on the lake with a little creek to paddle up at the far back left side."
Wildlife observation: The grasslands and lakes provide habitat for diverse Texas wildlife. At Lake Mineral Wells State Park Primitive, one visitor reported, "I saw some wildlife- deer, an armadillo, and a rabbit. I was carrying a 50 lb pack and stopped often for pics, so it took me about an hour and a half to reach the primitive camping area."
Kayaking and water sports: Multiple lakes near River Oaks offer paddling opportunities. According to reviews at Sycamore Bend Park, the location is "Really nice park right on the lake, but it does get a bit crowded. We arrived on a Saturday around noon and took what seemed to be the last spot. Really nice, secluded campground for being so close to suburbs. Great for hammocking, kayaking, paddle boarding etc."
What campers like
Free camping options: Budget-conscious campers appreciate no-cost options in the area. A review for De Cordova Bend states, "Decordova bend park is managed by the Bravos River Authority. Has several picnic tables, grills and a public boat ramp. Free to camp with a 10 day max. It was very clean and there were many deer in the area all night."
Hammock-friendly spots: Many primitive campgrounds feature trees suitable for hammock camping. One camper at Lake Mineral Wells mentioned, "I hung my hammock right over a bluff for a spectacular view. Nice hiking."
Small fishing lakes: Local waters offer productive fishing without large crowds. A camper at Black Creek Lake NF Campground observed, "The occasional local popping in for fishing or grilling sorta dampens the 'out-in-the-woods' feel but overall quite nice."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Summer heat affects camping conditions significantly. According to a De Cordova Bend visitor, "Been told by a local, off season is best as July and August are typically overful. Lots of sun and just a little shade, arrive early for a treed spot or bring shade awnings."
Payment systems vary: Different campgrounds use different payment collection methods. Black Creek Lake uses "an honor system at the kiosk for payment. $2 per night includes a fire ring and picnic table at 14 official sites."
Hiking difficulty levels: Primitive areas may require challenging hikes to access. One Lake Mineral Wells camper noted, "The hike to camp was 2.5 miles with a steep downhill grade the first quarter mile. Other than the first quarter I'd say it was a very easy hike."
Tarp recommendations: Ground conditions at some sites require extra protection. A visitor suggested, "Pack a tarp. I usually don't endorse needing a tarp to lay below your tent, but during certain times of year small burrs can be out in this area and a tarp can keep these from poking into your tent base."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer facilities for children. At Meadowmere Park & Campground, campers found "Peaceful, open, spacious and super nice management and staff. We stayed in spot 23 and although windy, I really enjoyed the scenery and quietness."
Bathroom cleanliness: Family campers prioritize clean facilities. A Meadowmere Park visitor reported, "Porta potties were incredibly clean and a main bathroom area featured showers and very clean as well."
Scout group awareness: Families seeking quiet should note popular scout destinations. One reviewer mentioned, "This camp site is very popular with the boy and cub scout troops in the North Dallas Metroplex area. So if you looking for a nice quite place to commune with nature this may not be your cup of tea."
Night wildlife viewing: Children enjoy spotting nocturnal animals at several campgrounds. At De Cordova Bend, campers reported, "It was very clean and there were many deer in the area all night."
Tips from RVers
Off-grid parking locations: RV campers seeking dispersed options can find suitable terrain. A visitor to Lyndon B. Johnson National Grassland noted, "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... Once inside you could tell there'd been recent rain but the wet areas were easily avoided."
Road condition warnings: Some campgrounds have difficult access roads. One camper warned, "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."
Limited RV options: Most primitive camping near River Oaks has few RV-specific amenities. Little Elm Park offers "Electric hookups for RV generally a small area first come first serve.... 5 dollars per tent....restrooms and park lights.... stores nearby..... no showers."
