Caddo National Grasslands wilderness guide
National Grasslands · TX

Caddo National Grasslands

Caddo National Grasslands offers a unique prairie and woodland landscape in Texas, providing diverse opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and off-road recreation.

National Grasslands26,0004+ Trails

Designation

National Grasslands

Total Wilderness Area

26,000

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Caddo National Grasslands

Caddo National Grasslands offers a unique prairie and woodland landscape in Texas, providing diverse opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and off-road recreation.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Caddo National Grasslands covers approximately 26,000 acres in the northeast corner of Texas, primarily within Fannin and Grayson counties. It is one of four National Grasslands managed by the U.S. Forest Service, characterized by open prairie, post oak woodlands, and riparian corridors that support a broad range of flora and fauna. The area preserves a section of the historic tallgrass prairie ecosystem that is increasingly rare in the United States. Historically, the land was utilized for grazing and agriculture but has since been restored and managed for conservation and public recreation. Visitors can explore multiple hiking and mountain biking trails, camp in developed and primitive campgrounds, or enjoy fishing and paddling in local creeks. The grasslands also provide important habitat for a variety of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, bobwhite quail, and many migratory songbirds. Notable landmarks include the scenic Bois d’Arc Creek and the Morgan Overlook, which offers panoramic views of the grassland terrain. The Caddo National Grasslands attracts outdoor enthusiasts looking for a tranquil experience on the Texas prairie and serves as an educational resource for the natural and cultural history of the region.

Field Guide · National Grasslands
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Caddo National Grasslands

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Morgan Overlook – panoramic views of the rolling grassland terrain✦ Restored tallgrass prairie ecosystem supporting diverse native plants✦ Off-road vehicle trails offering varied terrain for recreation✦ Bois d’Arc Creek – quiet waterway ideal for fishing and paddling
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Caddo National Grasslands

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Caddo National Grasslands
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Caddo National Grasslands
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Caddo National Grasslands
Park Recreation

Mountain Biking

Available in Caddo National Grasslands
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Caddo National Grasslands
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Caddo National Grasslands
Park Recreation

Scenic Drives

Available in Caddo National Grasslands
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Caddo National Grasslands
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Caddo National Grasslands.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free public access; no permits required for day use. Camping may require site registration.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Caddo National Grasslands

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Caddo Campground

Located near Bois d’Arc Creek, offers picnic tables and fire rings, suitable for tents and small RVs.

South Mountain Primitive Campground

Remote site with limited facilities, ideal for backpackers and visitors seeking solitude.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Caddo National Grasslands

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Bonham, Texas
⌖ 5.55 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Bonham, Texas

Bonham, Texas is a peaceful town surrounded by lakes and parks offering paddling, fishing, hiking, and camping. Eisenhower State Park is the go-to spot for outdoor fun, all best enjoyed in spring and fall.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Honey Grove, Texas
⌖ 12.83 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Honey Grove, Texas

Honey Grove is a peaceful small town in Northeast Texas with countryside trails, fishing spots, and quiet parks. It’s perfect for travelers seeking calm outdoor escapes and small-town hospitality.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
La Covatilla, Castile and León
⌖ 16.94 miles
Gateway Basecamp

La Covatilla, Castile and León

La Covatilla is a mountain resort in Castile and León perfect for skiing winter sports and summer hiking or biking. Its scenic Sierra de Béjar setting offers diverse trails, dramatic views, and a welcoming alpine vibe year-round.

Winter (December to March) for skiing; Late spring to early autumn for hiking and biking.
Explore Town
Greenville, Texas
⌖ 25.90 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Greenville, Texas

Greenville, Texas offers laid-back outdoor fun with hiking, biking, and paddling in its green parks and waterways. Ideal for bird watchers and anglers, this East Texas town is a peaceful basecamp for exploring nature nearby.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Anna, Texas
⌖ 27.57 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Anna, Texas

Anna, Texas, offers a quiet outdoor retreat with hiking, biking, bird watching, and fishing opportunities. Perfect for visitors seeking green spaces and small-town charm just north of Dallas.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Farmersville, Texas
⌖ 28.13 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Farmersville, Texas

Farmersville, Texas is a quiet town ideal for outdoor lovers seeking calm hiking, biking, paddling, and fishing near lakes and parks. Its peaceful setting makes it a great spot to unwind and connect with nature.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Caddo National Grasslands

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

When Curiosity Leaps: Feeding Ringtail Lemurs at North Texas Safari Park
ADVEXPEDITION
Bonham, Texas
Environmental AttractionADV Bookable

When Curiosity Leaps: Feeding Ringtail Lemurs at North Texas Safari Park

A two-hour, per-person admission at North Texas Safari Park in Bonham that lets visitors feed and pet ringtail lemurs; this guide explains the park’s admission rules, vehicle requirements, and safety basics.

Environmental AttractionPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
When the Gates Close: A Private VIP Tour of North Texas Safari Park
ADVEXPEDITION
Bonham, Texas
Environmental AttractionADV Bookable

When the Gates Close: A Private VIP Tour of North Texas Safari Park

A private, guided two-hour visit at North Texas Safari Park in Bonham that lets you choose animal encounters, feed species including the giraffes, and explore the drive-through while the park is closed to the public.

Environmental AttractionPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Face-to-face with ringtail lemurs at North Texas Safari Park
ADVEXPEDITION
Bonham, Texas
Environmental AttractionADV Bookable

Face-to-face with ringtail lemurs at North Texas Safari Park

A short, hands-on, 20-minute encounter that lets visitors enter the lemur exhibit to feed, pet and be climbed on—this guide explains what to expect and who can take part.

Environmental AttractionPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Four Hours of Furious Strikes: Sandbass on West Tawakoni
ADVEXPEDITION
West Tawakoni, Texas
FishingADV Bookable

Four Hours of Furious Strikes: Sandbass on West Tawakoni

A 4-hour guided sandbass charter on West Tawakoni led by Lake Tawakoni Whisk'R Fish'N Trophy Guide Service — this guide explains what to expect, what to bring, and how the trip flows.

FishingPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip