Valley View Group Use
02 reviewsCaddo-LBJ National Grasslands, 1400 N. Highway 81/287, Decatur, TX 76234
Valley View Group Use
$0.00 - $10.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$10.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees vary; standard nonelectric sites are $10 during the first-come, first-served season. No additional fees for modifications or refunds under Scan & Pay system.
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About this campground
Nestled within 1,500 pristine acres of the LBJ National Grasslands, Valley View Group Use Facility offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure and specialized recreation. This thoughtfully designed campground features 15 spacious camp units centered around an impressive 20-by-40-foot pavilion, complete with an authentic 'Texas-sized' charcoal grill perfect for memorable group gatherings. The facility caters to diverse outdoor enthusiasts with barrier-free double restrooms and dedicated water sources for equestrian visitors. Winding non-motorized trails beckon hikers and nature lovers, while tranquil ponds dot the landscape, creating perfect spots for quiet reflection and wildlife observation. As part of a designated bird dog training area, Valley View provides an exceptional basecamp for sporting dog enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Valley View Group Use campground is tailored for group gatherings and standard nonelectric camping. It provides opportunities for both day-use and overnight stays, with a focus on accommodating groups.
Historical SignificanceValley View stands as a testament to community passion and outdoor heritage. Born from a volunteer agreement between the Forest Service and dedicated local bird dog training enthusiasts, this facility represents the enduring bond between sporting traditions and conservation. The campground's creation story reflects the deep-rooted culture of bird dog training in Texas, where generations have passed down the art of working with pointing and retrieving breeds. Today, Valley View continues to honor this legacy while welcoming all outdoor enthusiasts to experience the unique character of the LBJ National Grasslands.
Weather and SeasonsValley View transforms with the seasons, offering distinct experiences throughout the year. Winter brings crisp, clear days with temperatures hovering around 36°F, creating ideal conditions for invigorating hikes and cozy campfire gatherings. With an impressive 71% clear sky rate and minimal precipitation during colder months, stargazing becomes a magical nightly ritual. As spring arrives, the Texas grasslands burst to life, while summer delivers those legendary warm Texas days perfect for early morning trail adventures and lazy afternoon pond-side relaxation. Each season paints the grasslands in different hues, ensuring every visit offers something new to discover.
Natural Features and SceneryThe sweeping vistas of Valley View showcase the subtle beauty of Texas grassland ecology. Rolling hills of native grasses create an ever-changing tapestry that shifts with wind and light, while scattered groves of trees provide natural windbreaks and wildlife habitat. The campground's carefully maintained trails wind through this sea of grass, offering intimate encounters with prairie wildflowers, native birds, and small mammals. Peaceful ponds mirror the expansive Texas sky and serve as vital water sources for local wildlife, creating prime locations for photography enthusiasts to capture the interplay of water, land, and sky. This diverse landscape provides endless opportunities for nature exploration, from dawn bird walks to sunset photography sessions.
Geological RegionSet within the remarkable LBJ National Grasslands, Valley View occupies a special corner of this 1,500-acre designated bird dog training area. This unique geological setting showcases the characteristic features of North Texas prairie lands, where ancient seas once covered the region, leaving behind rich soils that now support diverse grassland ecosystems. The gently undulating terrain, punctuated by small ponds and natural depressions, tells the story of millions of years of geological evolution. These grasslands represent one of North America's most endangered ecosystems, making Valley View not just a recreational destination but a window into a rapidly disappearing landscape that once stretched across the continent.
Campsite details
AccessibilityBarrier-free double restroom and accessible vault toilets are available, making the facility suitable for visitors with mobility challenges.
Sites SizeThe campground features 15 sites, appropriate for both individual and group camping.
Sites PrivacyThe privacy level of the sites has not been explicitly described, but the group-use nature suggests less seclusion.
Total Campsites15 campsites
Recommended CampsitesNo site-specific recommendations are provided.
Best CampsitesNo specific campsites are rated or ranked as best.
Reserving a campsite
Guests Allowed Per Site
Not specified
Groups
The campground is designed for group use and includes a 20' x 40' pavilion with a large charcoal grill, making it ideal for group gatherings.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes 15 camp units and a central pavilion structure.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen annually from January 1 to December 31. Reservations are first-come, first-served from June 20 through December 31.
Reservation PlatformsReservations operate via Scan & Pay with Recreation.gov mobile app; no advance reservations are available during the first-come, first-served season.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served during specified seasons. Visitors must arrive on-site to claim and pay for a site.
Cancellation PolicyScan & Pay payments do not allow modifications, refunds, or cancellations.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The Valley View campground offers a variety of recreational activities centered around nature and water access. Activities include non-motorized boating, paddling, canoeing, and photography. Additionally, there are opportunities for camping and hiking.
Boating
Non-motorized boating activities such as canoeing and paddling are supported. Nearby small ponds provide opportunities for water activities.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as canoeing and paddling are popular activities.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Charcoal grill available at pavilion; specific fire policies for individual sites are not documented.
Hazards
General hazardsHorse manure may be present on trails, according to user reviews. Visitors should also prepare for limited or no cellular service in some areas.
Weather forecast
77
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 68%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 11.5 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are in Decatur, TX, including hospitals and law enforcement.
Good to know
Peak season datesFirst-come, first-served season runs from June 20 to December 31.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not mentioned, leaving waste management options unclear.
Proximity to water featuresSmall ponds are nearby for non-motorized boating, paddle boarding, and water photography.
Common complaintsSome visitors mention horse manure as a nuisance on trails.
HostNo campground host details are available.
Campground Map
Caddo-LBJ National Grasslands, 1400 N. Highway 81/287, Decatur, TX 76234
Driving directionsFollow U.S. Highway 81/287 north 11 miles to intersection with FM 1655 in Alvord; turn right and go 8 miles and cross Montague County Line; go ½ mile and turn right on Roberts Road. Follow Roberts and turn left on CR 2690 for 1 mile and turn right on Parker Dairy Road at 100 yards; turn left on CR 2777 and follow to Valley View 1 mile on right. Or follow FM 730 north from Decatur for 9 miles and turn left on CR 2461 (Cottonwood Cemetery Road); at the fork, turn right on CR 2560 for 6 miles and turn right on CR 2675 for 2 miles. Turn right on CR 2777 and follow for 1 mile to Valley View on right.
The campground is accessible via paved roads leading to the entrance; however, some areas have limited or no cellular service. Directions include rural roads such as CR 2690 and CR 2777 that may require extra navigation care.Nearby places
Decatur (11 miles, approximately 20 minutes)
Alvord (8 miles, approximately 15 minutes)
Nearby supplies
The closest sources for groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are likely available in Decatur, TX.
Camper Reviews
0.0
2 reviews
Valley View Group Use has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's suitability for group events and its scenic, shaded environment. The facility is appreciated for its well-maintained infrastructure, though visitors should be prepared for natural elements such as horse manure.
Review Summaries
Based on 2 reviews
What Campers Love
The campground is praised for its shaded areas, spacious pavilion, and suitability for activities such as endurance rides and hiking.
Based on 2 reviewsCommon Concerns
Some reviewers expressed concerns about horse manure in the area, which is expected given the facility's proximity to a designated bird dog training zone.
Based on 2 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors are advised to follow the detailed driving directions provided, as GPS coordinates alone may not suffice. Bringing the Recreation.gov app beforehand is also recommended due to limited cell...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews do not specify seasonal differences, but the campground's outdoor activities and lack of advanced reservations may make it more appealing in fair weather conditions.
Based on 2 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Beautiful facility and great place to host an Endurance Ride." - Tina Drexler. "Lots of nice sites and plenty of benches, it's is a national forest so beware of the horse poop, great hiking point...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Last updated August 10, 2025