LBJ National Grasslands Forest Road 904 offers free dispersed camping areas across 20,000 acres of mixed prairie and woodland. Located in north-central Texas, this primitive camping destination sits at approximately 700-900 feet elevation with seasonal temperature fluctuations that can range from freezing winters to hot summers above 100°F. Cattle grazing operations remain active throughout the grasslands, with visitors commonly encountering livestock near campsites.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Dispersed camping at LBJ National Grasslands provides encounters with native Texas wildlife. "See deer, armadillos, hogs, and birds. Bring a shovel and TP! About a half hour to town with all amenities," notes camper Tim O.
Hiking explorations: The grasslands feature several unmarked trails for day hiking. "Great hiking. Downloadable hiking maps availability on other apps. Only saw 3 other cameras while we were here," shares Ronald S., who documented 22 distinct campsites during his stay.
Fishing access: Ponds within the grasslands offer fishing opportunities within a short drive of camping areas. Local anglers frequently visit these spots. As one visitor noted: "There were some locals who came through and talked to us for a while when they were fishing in the lake. They said that they had been coming to this spot for 30+ years."
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: Lyndon B. Johnson National Grassland Dispersed Camping sites provide considerable distance between neighbors. "Remote dispersed. Great camping for north central Texas. The sites are a good distance between them," notes Ronald S. who documented numerous available sites during his visit.
Natural scenery: The grasslands offer scenic views particularly at sunset. "We soon found a pretty great vista view from which the spectacular sunset was just a great bonus," shares Michele A., who used the grasslands as an overnight stop while traveling.
Cell service coverage: Unlike many remote camping areas, most sites maintain usable cell coverage. "True Dispersed Camping with the added benefit of cell coverage," notes one camper, while another confirms "good cell service" despite the remote location.
What you should know
Road conditions vary: Access roads can become challenging after rain. "We drove a Toyota 4Runner and a small utility trailer with a roof top tent on it. Though this is some room down there, if someone else is there, I would move on," advises Michelle T. at Dead Pump Jack, adding that larger vehicles might struggle.
Water considerations: No potable water exists on site. "There is also a water dispensary in Decatur which is nice and convenient," shares Jennifer N., who recommends stocking up before arrival. Another camper notes "Only a mile drive to a pond for water for camp showers and putting out fires."
Variable experiences: While most visitors report positive experiences, be aware that not all campers have good encounters. "DO NOT COME HERE ALOT OF HARASSMENT ALOT OF PEOPLE MESSING WITH U TERRIBLE EXPERIENCE DONT GO," reported one unhappy camper who left early.
Tips for camping with families
Pack extra supplies: Free camping near Valley View requires comprehensive packing. "This is true dispersed camping with no amenities—no bathrooms, water, etc. Pack in/pack out," advises Ronald S. Families should bring additional water, food, and waste disposal supplies.
Consider weather timing: 5 Mile Camp Primitive Dispersed Camping visitor Shane W. recommends tracking weather patterns before arrival: "Stopped just before a cold front with rain hit and built a fire. Found a long sheet of tent to reflect the heat so had a great time hiking in."
Download maps beforehand: Cell service can be inconsistent despite generally being available. "Download maps before getting here. Cell is not the best," advises an experienced camper who documented the trails and campsites during their visit.
Tips from RVers
Scout before committing: For RV camping at Eagle's Roost Campsite, disconnect towed vehicles first to check site suitability. "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," recommends Ray & Terri F.
Vehicle clearance requirements: The dispersed camping areas have varying road conditions. "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," cautions Joey B., who needed coordinates to locate the site properly.
Consider overnight stays when transiting: The grasslands provide convenient free camping near Valley View for those traveling through Texas. "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," shares Michele A., who found the location worked well for this purpose.
