Dispersed camping areas near Weatherford, Texas offer rustic overnight options within a predominantly flat terrain dotted with lakes and grasslands. The region experiences hot summers with temperatures frequently exceeding 95°F from June through August, while winter nights can drop below freezing. Primitive camping spots around Possum Kingdom Lake and the LBJ National Grasslands require self-sufficiency as most lack potable water and other basic services.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Bug Beach BRA #5 provides access to Possum Kingdom Lake's fishing spots with a boat ramp nearby. "Located on Possum Kingdom Lake, Bug Beach has tent camping (without designated sites), a boat ramp and roped of swimming area. There are a few fire pits, picnic tables and shaded areas to pitch a tent along with restrooms," shares Megan E.
Wildlife observation: LBJ National Grasslands Forest Road 904 offers numerous opportunities to spot native Texas wildlife. Tim O. notes, "See deer, armadillos, hogs, and birds. Bring a shovel and TP! About a half hour to town with all amenities."
Stargazing: Lyndon B. Johnson National Grassland Dispersed Camping provides excellent dark sky viewing on clear nights. A camper advises, "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."
What campers like
Remote experience: Campers value the isolation at some sites in LBJ National Grasslands. Griffin K. reports, "Very remote so bring what you need. Very quiet you won't hear anyone besides the wildlife at night!"
Lake views: Hunter Park offers waterfront camping with easy fishing access. Jesse P. states, "Free camping near the water. Can't beat that with a stick. We came in February and it was cold that night."
Well-spaced sites: Many campers appreciate the privacy at certain locations. Ronald S. notes about LBJ Grasslands, "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."
Convenience to towns: Several campers mention the proximity to supplies despite feeling remote. Abraham mentions about LBJ Grasslands, "Roads to campsite are well maintained gravel, fire rings, and good views. Was in a roof top tent but had no problem with wind noise, good cell service."
What you should know
Primitive facilities: Most rustic sites lack amenities. At LBJ Grasslands, Mesha P. advises, "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."
Road conditions: Some access roads can be challenging. At Dead Pump Jack, Joey B. cautions, "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."
Seasonal considerations: Summer heat and winter cold affect camping comfort. A camper at Hunter Park mentions, "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."
Payment systems: Some free sites exist while others have honor systems. At Chisholm Trail Park, Kelsi W. explains, "$10/night honor system dropbox at entrance. No reservations or anything, just pull up and find a spot."
Tips for camping with families
Accessible swimming: Some lakeside locations offer designated swimming areas. Megan E. notes about Bug Beach, "Bug Beach has tent camping (without designated sites), a boat ramp and roped of swimming area."
Wildlife education opportunities: LBJ Grasslands provides chances to observe grazing animals. Jennifer N. shares, "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!"
Field games: Some campgrounds have open spaces for recreation. Alejandro G. says about Chisholm Trail Park, "Amazing place if you enjoy anything from fishing, hiking, picnics, volleyball and nature."
Spring and fall timing: Consider shoulder seasons for more comfortable temperatures. Kelsi W. remarks about Chisholm Trail Park, "This place is lovely! Perfect weather in March!!"
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Possum Kingdom Lake BRA offers varied parking options based on vehicle size. Darlene explains, "Public Area 4 and 6 have RV pads (which they do charge $10 to use in the Summer) with shelters, grill, and picnic tables, and many are waterside. Public Area 5 has grass pull thru RV parking."
Boondocking considerations: Finding level spots may require scouting. Michele A. advises about LBJ Grasslands, "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."
Limited RV options: Some areas are tent-focused rather than RV-friendly. Cris B. notes about BRA#1, "We thought this was ok for RV's, but there are only 1 or 2 places to park overnight, but you can tent on the grass in many places."
