The Lyndon Baines Johnson National Grasslands, one of only 20 national grasslands nationwide, encompasses more than 20,000 acres in Wise County. The grasslands sprawl into neighboring Montague County as well.

The grasslands offer a quiet escape from the increasing Metroplex sprawl. It is the only urban grasslands in the nation. They are located a mere 45 minutes from the Metroplex.

Wildlife flourishes in the forests and rolling prairies of the grasslands. Wild turkey, deer, bobcat, quail, coyote and fox are some of the creatures found in the grasslands.

Hunting in the grasslands is regulated by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Information on hunting and a map of the LBJ Grasslands can be obtained at the U.S. Forest Service District office, located on U.S. 81/287, just north of Decatur.

The USDA Forest Service has managed the grasslands since the 1950s. Before that, the land was managed by the Soil Conservation Service.

Other recreational opportunities on the national grasslands include 50 miles of horseback and four miles of hiking trails along with 400 ponds and lakes.

Black Creek Lake Recreational Area offers fishing, day-use picnicking areas, a boat ramp and primitive camping. Cottonwood Lake offers excellent fishing and a boat ramp but no day-use areas. A $2 parking fee has been added to Black Creek Lake to fund maintenance and improvements of recreational areas.

One of the newest attractions is Windmill Lake, the only lake in the state designated as “fly fishing only.”

Tadra Horse Camp offers 50 miles of horse trails with primitive camping areas large enough to accommodate horse trailers. There is a $4 per vehicle, per day fee.

The Friends of the Grasslands, a non-profit organization, raises money and awareness for projects and protection efforts.

Fire protection is a major concern at the grasslands. Although fire is a natural part of the grasslands ecosystem, visitors are asked to use caution.

The multi-use grasslands are utilized for more than recreation. The oil and gas wells on the grasslands generate income for Wise County each year to be used for schools and roads. Cattle grazing leases generate income for the park itself.

For more information, call (940) 627-5475 or visit the grasslands Web site at www.fs.fed.us/r8/texas/recreation/caddo_lbj/caddo-lbj_gen_info.shtml.