Bear Creek Campground

For Texans seeking a genuine connection with nature, Bear Creek Campground on Benbrook Lake offers a unique and diverse outdoor experience right here in Fort Worth. This inviting campground provides a choice between stunning lake views and serene creek side settings, each promising its own distinct charm and opportunities for wildlife observation. Imagine waking up to the peaceful sounds of birds, spotting deer just outside your tent, or enjoying the shimmering expanse of Benbrook Lake. Bear Creek Campground invites you to step away from the urban bustle and immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of North Texas.

Whether you’re an avid nature enthusiast with a keen eye for local wildlife or an RVer seeking a convenient base near Fort Worth, Bear Creek Campground has something to offer. While some aspects of the facilities lean towards a more rustic experience, as noted by past visitors, the campground's natural beauty, prime location on Benbrook Lake, and incredibly sturdy storm shelter are consistently highlighted as major advantages. It’s a place where memorable moments unfold, from spotting diverse bird species and deer to finding peace in a secluded wooded area or enjoying the expansive views of the lake. For those who come prepared for an authentic outdoor adventure, Bear Creek Campground delivers a deeply rewarding experience.

Bear Creek Campground is strategically located at 7208 Ben Day Murrin Rd, Fort Worth, TX 76126, USA, placing it directly on the south side of Benbrook Lake. This prime position in southwest Fort Worth makes it an easily accessible escape for residents across the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. Despite its proximity to a major urban center, the campground manages to offer a sense of peaceful seclusion, allowing visitors to feel truly immersed in nature.

Access to Bear Creek Campground is straightforward. From Interstate 20 or 820 in southwest Fort Worth, you can take exit 429A for Highway 377 towards Granbury, heading south for approximately 5.7 miles. Then, turn left or southeast onto FM Road 1187, continuing for about 1.4 miles, before finally turning left or east onto Ben Day-Murrin Road. The campground entrance is another 1.6 miles down this road. This well-defined route ensures a smooth journey for campers arriving by car or RV.

The campground’s location on Benbrook Lake provides direct access to water recreation, a significant draw for many Texans. Furthermore, its Fort Worth address means that campers are only a short drive away from a wealth of urban attractions, including the Fort Worth Cultural & Museum District, the Stockyards National Historic District, the Botanical Gardens, and the Fort Worth Zoo. This convenient blend of natural retreat and urban accessibility makes Bear Creek Campground an ideal spot for locals looking to enjoy the outdoors without sacrificing connection to city amenities. The campground operates from April through September, with gates closing at 10:00 p.m., so planning your arrival time is essential.

• Campsites: Bear Creek Campground offers a variety of individual campsites, accommodating both tents and RVs. Reviewers note that many RV spots are "impressively spacious, offering plenty of room and privacy between sites." There are 47 campsites in total, including 1 tent-only site. 45 sites can accommodate RVs between 30 and 85 feet.
• Electrical Hookups: Most sites come with electric hookups (typically 30 and 50 amp options), and water hookups are also available, making it convenient for RV and trailer campers.
• Water Hookups: All sites generally have water hookups for convenient access to potable water.
• Restrooms: The campground provides restrooms with flush toilets. Reviewers generally find the bathrooms "overall kept clean and stocked with plenty of toilet paper," though they note the absence of soap or paper towels.
• Showers: Showers are available within the restroom facilities. However, user reviews suggest that these showers might be more "primitive" and less consistently maintained than the restrooms, with low water pressure and some privacy concerns in lakefront areas. Campers might consider bringing their own portable showers.
• RV Dump Station: A trailer dump station is available within the campground for the convenience of RV users.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite typically includes a picnic table, often under a covered wooden structure, and a fire ring with a grill, perfect for cooking and enjoying campfires.
• Group Camping: A large group camping pavilion is available, often accompanied by individual campsites around a central pavilion, suitable for larger gatherings.
• Reservations: Campsites can be reserved in advance through platforms like Recreation.gov. It is highly recommended to book early, especially for preferred lakeside sites or during peak seasons.
• Storm Shelter: A significant and praised amenity is the "BEST STORM SHELTER," located within one of the shower/restroom buildings, providing a sturdy and safe haven during severe weather conditions.

• Diverse Site Options: Bear Creek Campground offers distinct camping experiences. Campers can choose "lake views" (sites numbered 19 and above) which are ideal for enjoying the expansive water, or opt for "creek side camping" which, while lacking direct lake access or views, is "great for viewing wildlife," including "lots of deer and a wide variety of beautiful birds."
• Abundant Wildlife: For nature enthusiasts, the campground is a haven for wildlife. Deer are frequently spotted, and a diverse range of beautiful birds can be observed, making it an excellent spot for birdwatching and wildlife photography.
• Benbrook Lake Access: The campground provides access to Benbrook Lake, offering opportunities for boating, fishing (with common species including largemouth bass, catfish, and crappie), and other water-based activities. There is a boat launching facility available.
• Strong Storm Shelter: A standout feature, praised by a reviewer, is the extremely sturdy storm shelter located within one of the shower/restroom buildings. This provides a crucial sense of security for campers during severe Texas weather.
• Spacious RV Sites: Many RV sites are noted for being "impressively spacious," offering ample room and a good degree of privacy between sites, a valuable commodity in popular campgrounds.
• Shaded Picnic Areas: Campsites often feature a covered picnic table, providing shade and a comfortable area for dining and relaxation outdoors.
• Proximity to Fort Worth Attractions: Beyond the campground, visitors have easy access to Fort Worth's rich cultural scene, including museums, the Stockyards, botanical gardens, and the zoo, allowing for a versatile vacation experience.
• Managed by U.S. Army Corps of Engineers: Being a Corps of Engineers park, Bear Creek Campground typically adheres to certain standards of maintenance and operation, providing a generally reliable camping experience.
• Quiet Atmosphere: Despite occasional suggestions for "primitive conditions," the overall atmosphere, especially in the creek side areas, is conducive to quiet enjoyment of nature.

Address: 7208 Ben Day Murrin Rd, Fort Worth, TX 76126, USA

Phone: (817) 292-2400

For reservations, it is best to utilize the National Recreation Reservation Service, commonly known as Recreation.gov, or call the provided phone number for local inquiries.

Bear Creek Campground is an excellent choice for Texans, particularly those in the Fort Worth and surrounding North Texas areas, seeking an authentic and accessible outdoor experience. Its prime location on Benbrook Lake means that a natural escape is never far away, making it ideal for convenient weekend getaways or longer camping trips without extensive travel. This ease of access allows locals to fully embrace the outdoor lifestyle without the burden of long drives.

The campground truly shines in its diverse offerings of campsites. Whether you prioritize breathtaking lake views for a picturesque setting or prefer the secluded, wildlife-rich environment of the creek side, Bear Creek provides tailored experiences. This variety, coupled with the frequent sightings of deer and a wide array of birds, makes it a paradise for nature lovers and photographers. While some facilities, particularly the showers, might be more rustic than some expect, experienced campers or those prepared for a simpler approach will find this adds to the authentic outdoor adventure. The presence of essential electric and water hookups at most sites still ensures a comfortable stay for RVers.

A standout feature for Texans is the highly praised, sturdy storm shelter, providing crucial peace of mind during unpredictable weather. This commitment to safety, combined with the natural beauty and the opportunity to engage with local wildlife, makes Bear Creek Campground a valuable local resource. It allows residents to easily disconnect from the daily grind, reconnect with nature, and create lasting memories in a beautiful and conveniently located setting, making it a highly suitable and recommended destination for the Texas community.