Texas National Grasslands offer amazing spaces where herding dogs can roam free, exercise their natural instincts, and burn off energy.
These special areas combine wide-open spaces with varied terrain that working dog breeds absolutely love.
Whether you’re training your dog or just looking for a place to let them run wild, these five trails provide the perfect playground for your energetic four-legged friend.
1. LBJ National Grasslands – Bird Dog Training Area

Sprawling across 20,000 acres, this training paradise was originally designed for hunting dogs but has become a herding dog heaven. The gentle rolling terrain features scattered mesquite trees and tall grasses that create natural agility courses for your border collie or Australian shepherd.
Morning visitors often catch sight of deer and wild turkeys, adding to the excitement for your four-legged friend. The area remains uncrowded even on weekends, giving your dog plenty of space to run.
Visit during spring when wildflowers carpet the landscape, creating a stunning backdrop for photos of your pup in action. Just remember to bring plenty of water because there are limited water sources along the trails!
2. LBJ National Grasslands – Rucker Pond Area

Water-loving herding dogs rejoice! Rucker Pond offers a refreshing swimming spot surrounded by oak trees and open meadows perfect for off-leash adventures. Your Australian cattle dog can zoom through the grassy fields before cooling off with a splash in the clear waters.
Unlike more developed parks, this hidden gem maintains a wild feel that stimulates your dog’s natural herding instincts. The terrain varies from flat clearings to gentle slopes, creating natural challenges for energetic pups.
3. LBJ Multi‑Use Trail System – TADRA Point Loops

Craving variety? TADRA Point delivers with its network of interconnected loops ranging from easy half-mile strolls to challenging three-mile circuits. The diverse terrain includes sandy paths, wooded sections, and open prairie – perfect for keeping clever herding breeds mentally stimulated.
Strategically placed benches offer rest spots where you can watch your dog explore while enjoying views of TADRA Point Lake. Many trails hug the shoreline, giving water-loving pups plenty of chances to splash around between bursts of running.
Local herding dog owners swear this is the best spot for tire-out-your-dog days! The mix of terrain challenges helps develop balance and agility naturally.
4. Caddo National Grasslands – Open Backcountry Sections

Far from the crowds, these lesser-known trails offer true freedom across 17,000 acres of untamed prairie. Your dog can chase butterflies through knee-high grasses while you soak in panoramic views that stretch for miles.
Autumn transforms this landscape into a golden wonderland when grasses catch the low sunlight. The rolling terrain provides natural obstacles that challenge your dog’s coordination and build strength without the artificial feel of dog parks.
Bring a compass or GPS – trail markings are minimal in these wild sections! The remoteness means you’ll likely have vast stretches entirely to yourselves.
5. Wide-Open Prairie Sections Of Both Grasslands

These boundless prairie sections spread across both LBJ and Caddo grasslands offer the ultimate experience for herding dogs craving wide-open spaces. Without defined trails, you and your four-legged companion can create your own adventure through waving grasses and wildflower meadows.
Springtime brings an explosion of bluebonnets and Indian paintbrush, creating a technicolor playground for your pup. The unobstructed sightlines mean you can safely watch your dog run at full speed while maintaining visual contact.