Amazing free Texas camping

By Cheri Sicard
In the video below, free camping experts Lou and Melody of Living Our Dream Now share their favorite places for free camping in Texas.

The video explores two fantastic scenic free camping spots, both at the Lake Meredith National Recreation Area. If you are interested in visiting, be sure to watch the video as Lou gives complete campground tours so you will know what to expect, right down to which individual campsites are best for your rig.

Fritch Fortress Campground

First up is the scenic Fritch Fortress Campground. This spot offers free camping for up to 14 days, plus it has some great amenities. There’s a freshwater fill station, flush toilets, sinks, and showers. There are four shower and toilet combinations in the building. Everything functions, and the water works great.

Beyond the fact that you can camp here for free, the beautiful scenery makes this campground a big win. The island in Lake Meredith adds to the charm. Lou says this is easily one of the best free camping spots in all of Texas.

Sanford-Yake Campground

Sanford-Yake has free dry camping along the outer perimeter. There seem to be several access points to the free camping area. Like Fritch Fortress, Sanford-Yake also has a shower house at the top of the hill.

Even better, this campground also has campsites with electric and water hookups for just $28 a night. With those views, that price is hard to beat.

The free campsites are first-come, first-served, and they fill up fast. Many are back-in sites. Some campsites are uneven, so campers need to choose carefully. Some spots require the fifth wheel to straddle to get level.

Which campground is best?

So, which campground is the best? Sanford-Yake Campground is Lou and Melody’s top pick! Both campgrounds are great, but Sanford-Yake has a special appeal, and Fritch Fortress can be a bit windy.

Practicalities

Find more information about the Lake Meredith National Recreation Area at the National Park Service website. 

Camping rules

• Maximum stay: 14 days.

• Follow fire restrictions.

• Practice Leave No Trace principles.

• Be aware of pet policies.

When to visit

Consider the weather. Peak seasons can be crowded.

Things to do

• Boating

• Fishing (check for license requirements)

• Hiking

• Wildlife viewing

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