Dispersed camping near Saginaw, Texas provides overnight access to the diverse ecosystems of north central Texas, where terrain ranges from open prairie to oak woodlands. The LBJ National Grasslands covers 20,250 acres across Wise and Montague counties, with elevations ranging from 800-1,000 feet. Weather conditions can change rapidly, with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 100°F and winter nights occasionally dropping below freezing.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Access multiple ponds throughout the LBJ Grasslands system where campers report active fish. "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," explains Tim O. about LBJ National Grasslands Forest Road 904 Dispersed Camping.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings and evenings provide optimal wildlife spotting times across the grasslands. "See deer, armadillos, hogs, and birds. Bring a shovel and TP! About a half hour to town with all amenities," notes a visitor to LBJ National Grasslands.
Sunset photography: The elevated terrain at certain campsites creates prime conditions for sunset viewing. "Sites are spacious and we soon found a pretty great vista view from which the spectacular sunset was just a great bonus," reports Michele A. about Lyndon B. Johnson National Grassland Dispersed Camping.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: The spacing of camping areas provides natural seclusion. "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," explains Ronald S.
Waterfront access: Multiple parks offer camping directly adjacent to water bodies. "Beautiful, great fishing, enough trees to hammock camp, flat spots if you want a tent, safe! Fall asleep to the sound of crickets and jumping fish, occasional coyote howls," shares Kelsi W. about Chisholm Trail Park.
Proximity to town: Free camping near Saginaw, Texas provides isolation while maintaining reasonable access to supplies. "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," notes Jennifer N. at LBJ National Grasslands.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access varies significantly by site and recent weather. "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," warns Joey B. about Dead Pump Jack.
Water availability: No potable water exists at most sites, requiring preparation. "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 Mesha P.
Weather exposure: Limited shade affects comfort during hot months. "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," cautions a camper at Hunter Park.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: Hunter Park provides an accessible introduction to dispersed camping. "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," reports a visitor to Hunter Park.
Educational opportunities: The grasslands support both livestock and wildlife, creating learning experiences. "Lots of steers grazing around the area and right up to the RV most mornings," notes Ray & Terri F.
Safety considerations: Maintain awareness of natural hazards in the area. "Some of the brush is pretty spiky. Some trash from past campers (we picked up as we cleaned up our stay, but who knows if it will be back)," reports a camper at Chisholm Trail Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Larger rigs require advance planning in the grasslands. "If you have a tow vehicle, drop it just inside the gate, leave your RV and go scope out a suitable campsite, as turning around with a large rig is only practical in a couple of locations," advises an RVer at Forest Road 904.
Loop layouts: Some parks feature drive-through designs simplifying navigation. "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," notes a visitor to Hunter Park.
Wind exposure: Higher elevation sites experience greater wind impact. "It did get rather windy but I was on top of the hill. Live and learn," shares Jennifer N. about her experience at LBJ National Grasslands Forest Road 904 Dispersed Camping.
