The Lyndon B. Johnson National Grassland dominates the tent camping landscape near Weatherford, Texas, with over 20,000 acres of public land spanning the western edge of the Cross Timbers ecological region. Located just 30 miles northwest of Weatherford, this grassland ecosystem features open prairies, oak mottes, and scattered ponds that support diverse wildlife. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 95°F with high humidity, making spring and fall the preferred camping seasons when overnight temperatures range from 50-70°F.
What to do
Bouldering and rock climbing: Lake Mineral Wells State Park offers unique rock formations rarely found in North Texas. "Very unique rock climbing area. Fun to watch the climbers go up and down," notes Emily M. about the Primitive Area — Lake Mineral Wells State Park. Penitentiary Hollow provides both bouldering and rappelling opportunities.
Kayaking and paddling: Several lakes near Weatherford provide paddling options. "You can spend your day on the water, swimming on the beach, fishing from a pier or exploring the shoreline by kayak," reports Jamey W. about Lake Mineral Wells. For more extensive paddling, De Cordova Bend on the Brazos River offers "a public boat ramp" with free camping, according to Jason.
Wildlife watching: Dawn and dusk provide opportunities to spot deer, armadillos, and birds. "I saw some wildlife- deer, an armadillo, and a rabbit," reports Charly S. about their hike at Lake Mineral Wells primitive area. Scissor-tailed Flycatchers with dramatic black and white split tail feathers nest at De Cordova Bend according to Sean B.
What campers like
Easy lake access: Many campgrounds feature shoreline camping with water views. At Sycamore Bend Park, "a short walk from where you park" leads to sites "right on the lake," according to Hannah F., making it "really nice for hammocking, kayaking, paddle boarding etc."
Secluded primitive sites: For those seeking solitude, the backcountry areas provide distance from crowds. Michelle T. describes Lyndon B. Johnson National Grassland Dispersed Camping as a spot "locals had been coming to for 30+ years and rarely saw anyone else there."
Good value camping: Most sites near Weatherford are affordable compared to developed campgrounds. De Cordova Bend offers "free camping with a 10 day max," notes Jason. Meanwhile, Tadra Point Trailhead in LBJ Grasslands charges "$10 per car fee to be paid at a self serve box," according to Mesha P.
What you should know
Facilities vary widely: Prepare for minimal or no amenities at primitive sites. At Black Creek Lake NF Campground, "restrooms and a gravel drive" access the grounds with "a small playground and picnic tables," but Crystal C. warns it's "a cash only system with no ATM within 10 miles."
Seasonal considerations: Texas heat impacts camping comfort significantly. "The temperature was soaring but a nice breeze off the lake coupled with the shady trees made for a very nice experience," notes Alan H. about Black Creek Lake during a mid-week summer visit.
Access challenges: Some sites require advance planning for access. Alice M. found Lake Mineral Wells primitive sites required navigating trails that were "well marked, but pretty overgrown at parts with a TON of spider webs," and recommends taking "the Cross Timbers trail back, which despite being a little longer was faster because of how much better maintained it was."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer play equipment for children. Crystal C. notes Black Creek Lake has "a small playground" near the camping area, making it suitable for families with young children.
Shorter hiking options: Choose trails appropriate for children's abilities. "We love the penitentiary hollow trail and the trail that leads to the backpacking camp sites. Both trails are fun hiking," shares Sarah J. about Tadra Point Trailhead & Campground, noting "it doesn't feel like Texas at this park."
Wildlife education opportunities: Local fauna provides learning experiences. At Lake Mineral Wells, one camper reported seeing "deer, an armadillo, and a rabbit" during their hike to the primitive camping area, while at De Cordova Bend Park, "there were many deer in the area all night," according to Jason.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Many campgrounds restrict larger RVs. Michelle T. warns about LBJ National Grassland dispersed camping: "I would NOT recommend taking any kind of trailer or motorhome down these roads and to this spot," noting they drove "a Toyota 4Runner and a small utility trailer with a roof top tent."
Mid-week camping: For better site selection and quieter experience, avoid weekends. Sean B. reports De Cordova Bend is "a mid-week haven" where "only 3 or 4 campsites are occupied with tents or rv" despite busy day use traffic.
Amenities for comfort: Look for sites with shade and breeze during summer. At Meadowmere Park & Campground, Melanie G. found "spot 23 and although windy, I really enjoyed the scenery and quietness," adding the facilities were "incredibly clean" with showers available.
