There’s nothing like the crackle of a campfire and the quiet of a star-filled night to recharge your spirit—and you don’t need to drive far or spend big to get that experience. Fort Worth is surrounded by scenic, affordable state parks and campgrounds perfect for budget-conscious adventurers. Whether you’re looking to hike solo, fish with friends, or set up a family basecamp, these spots offer epic nature without the hefty price tag.
From lakeside escapes to wooded hideaways, these camping road trips prove that adventure near Fort Worth can be rich in experience but light on your wallet.
Why Budget Camping from Fort Worth Is a Smart Adventure
With gas prices fluctuating and hotels often out of reach, camping is one of the most budget-friendly ways to explore North Texas. Fort Worth’s central location puts you within easy driving distance of dozens of public parks and low-cost campgrounds, many with incredible trails, wildlife, fishing spots, and lake views.
Whether you’re backpacking on your own or packing up the kids for a weekend getaway, these destinations make it easy to go off-grid without going over budget.
Best Budget Camping Road Trips Near Fort Worth
1. Cleburne State Park
Tucked away in the hills southwest of Fort Worth, this spring-fed lake park offers peaceful, well-shaded campsites with hiking, swimming, and fishing. It’s small, quiet, and ideal for tent campers looking to escape city noise.
Address: 5800 Park Rd 21, Cleburne, TX 76033
Hours: Daily, 6 AM–10 PM
Approx Cost: $6 per adult entry + $10–$20 per campsite
Famous For: Lakeside campsites, wooded trails, and quiet atmosphere
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Book a site near the water’s edge for sunrise views and cool evening breezes.
2. Lake Mineral Wells State Park
Perfect for adventure seekers, this park has campsites, hiking, rock climbing, and a scenic rail-trail for biking. It’s also home to Penitentiary Hollow—a popular rock climbing destination in North Texas.
Address: 100 Park Rd 71, Mineral Wells, TX 76067
Hours: Daily, 6 AM–10 PM
Approx Cost: $7 per adult + $15–$20 per campsite
Famous For: Climbing, trail biking, and affordable lakefront camping
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Try the Red Waterfront campsites for shaded seclusion and quick lake access.
3. Dinosaur Valley State Park
This unique park combines budget camping with fossil fun—pitch your tent just steps away from real dinosaur tracks in the Paluxy River. Trails offer amazing views and varied terrain for all fitness levels.
Address: 1629 Park Rd 59, Glen Rose, TX 76043
Hours: Daily, 8 AM–5 PM
Approx Cost: $8 per adult + $15–$20 per campsite
Famous For: Dinosaur tracks, scenic hiking, and family-friendly camping
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Arrive early to secure shaded sites—they go fast, especially on weekends.
4. Lake Whitney State Park
This expansive lakeside park offers excellent budget camping with some of the best water views near Fort Worth. It’s great for boating, swimming, fishing, and stargazing.
Address: 433 FM 1244, Whitney, TX 76692
Hours: Daily, 6 AM–10 PM
Approx Cost: $5 per adult + $10–$20 per campsite
Famous For: Peaceful lakeside camping and wide-open sky views
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Try sites 33–42 for direct lake access and sunset vistas.
5. Fort Richardson State Park
This budget-friendly gem near Jacksboro offers a mix of history and nature. Campsites are spacious, trails are easy, and the historic fort is fascinating for all ages.
Address: 228 Park Rd 61, Jacksboro, TX 76458
Hours: Daily, 8 AM–5 PM
Approx Cost: $4 per adult + $10–$15 per campsite
Famous For: Historic military buildings and affordable camping
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Take the Lost Creek Trailway for a long, peaceful bike ride through scenic countryside.
6. Meridian State Park
Small but mighty, this park surrounds a clear, spring-fed lake with paddle rentals, hiking trails, and cliffside views. It’s a peaceful retreat for solo campers or couples.
Address: 173 Park Road #7, Meridian, TX 76665
Hours: Daily, 6 AM–10 PM
Approx Cost: $5 per adult + $10–$15 per campsite
Famous For: Crystal-clear lake and secluded primitive sites
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Bring your own kayak for a quiet paddle across the still water at dawn.
7. Benbrook Lake Holiday Park
This Army Corps of Engineers campground offers incredible value just minutes from Fort Worth. With waterfront sites, basic amenities, and big open skies, it’s a great local option for a last-minute adventure.
Address: 7001 Lakeside Dr, Fort Worth, TX 76132
Hours: Daily, sunrise to sunset
Approx Cost: $10–$15 per night
Famous For: Budget camping just minutes from the city
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Bring bug spray and extra shade—tree cover is limited in some areas.
Cheap Eats and Nearby Stops
1. Mary’s Cafe – Strawn
After a long hike or paddle, stop here for massive chicken-fried steaks and real Texas flavor. It’s an old-school diner that won’t hurt your budget.
Address: 119 Grant Ave, Strawn, TX 76475
Hours: Wed–Sun, 11 AM–8 PM
Approx Cost: $10–$18 per person
Famous For: Giant portions and home-cooked comfort food
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Share a plate—it’s huge. Then walk it off along nearby trails.
2. Hammond’s BBQ – Glen Rose
Affordable and delicious, this spot near Dinosaur Valley offers hearty plates and outdoor seating. A great pit stop before heading back to your campsite.
Address: 1106 NE Big Bend Trail, Glen Rose, TX 76043
Hours: Daily, 11 AM–8 PM
Approx Cost: $10–$20 per person
Famous For: Classic BBQ without the tourist prices
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Get the chopped brisket sandwich with a side of jalapeño corn.
3. Woody’s – Mineral Wells
This cozy diner dishes out breakfast all day and great burgers—perfect for budget campers needing a quick bite near Lake Mineral Wells.
Address: 600 SE 1st Ave, Mineral Wells, TX 76067
Hours: Daily, 7 AM–3 PM
Approx Cost: $8–$15 per person
Famous For: Breakfast, friendly staff, and quick eats
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Grab a breakfast burrito to-go for your trail hike or morning paddle.
Packing Tips for Budget Camping Near Fort Worth
- Inexpensive tent and waterproof ground cover
- Compact stove or grill + reusable cookware
- Refillable water jugs and filter
- First aid kit and flashlight
- Local park maps downloaded offline
- Firewood and lighter (check burn bans)
- Bug spray, sunscreen, and layered clothing
- Cheap cooler with ice blocks
- Simple camping meals (wraps, oats, chili)
- Folding chairs or camp hammock
Local Tips & Seasonal Advice for Budget Campers
Spring & Fall: Best weather for camping—cool nights, sunny days
Summer: Look for lake parks and shady sites; book early
Weekdays: Cheaper rates, fewer crowds
Texas State Parks Pass: $70/year—waives entry fees for unlimited visits
Gear Rentals: Some parks offer kayak or paddleboard rentals for $10–$20
Reservations: Book sites online 2–4 weeks in advance for popular weekends
Burn Bans: Always check fire restrictions before planning to cook or have a campfire
Final Thoughts: Big Adventures, Small Budgets
You don’t need to travel far or spend a fortune to reconnect with nature. These budget camping road trips near Fort Worth prove that the best kind of adventure is often the simplest. A campfire, a quiet lake, a well-packed cooler—sometimes, that’s all you need.
Whether you’re going solo, bringing friends, or introducing the kids to the wild, there’s a perfect budget-friendly campsite waiting just down the road.
