Pat Mayse Lake offers multiple campground options near Arthur City, Texas with both water and forest experiences. The lake elevation sits around 451 feet with 110 miles of shoreline providing extensive waterfront camping opportunities. Rainfall averages 44 inches annually, creating lush surrounding forests but also periodic flooding that can impact some waterfront campsites.
What to do
Boating access points: At Pat Mayse Sanders Cove Recreations area, campers have convenient water access through two boat ramps. "With two boat ramps you will have no issues putting your boat in the water," notes one visitor, adding that "The swim area was kinda dull but better than nothing."
Fishing tournaments: The lake hosts competitive fishing events throughout the year. A reviewer mentioned, "There is a serious fishing tournement held every year, Uncle Jesse Big Bass Classic Fishing Tournament, started by Denver Pyle who played Uncle Jesse on The Dukes of Hazzard fame."
Kayaking opportunities: The calm waters make this location ideal for paddlers. One camper at Hugo Lake Park noted, "People were fishing in the lake as well, and kayaking too. The kayaking looked like a blast. We looked for places nearby to rent, but couldnt find any."
Geocaching adventures: Some campgrounds feature geocaching sites for technology-enhanced treasure hunting. A family staying at Sanders Cove mentioned activities like "Boating, grilling, yard games, geocaching and more!"
What campers like
Spacious sites with shade: Many campsites offer ample room between neighbors. At Pat Mayse West, a visitor observed, "This is a large campground, lots of room between sites! Good place to go for a family camping spot! Shade and level sites!"
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the area maintain well-kept bathrooms and grounds. A camper at Raymond Gary State Park Campground reported, "The bathroom was one of the cleanest I've seen. Kudos to the camp host/ranger."
Peaceful atmosphere: The relative seclusion creates a quiet environment. One reviewer described their experience: "We had had a blowout on our rv and needed to stay the night instead of finishing our travel... Very beautiful and quiet when we visited in early August."
Wildlife viewing: The wooded areas support diverse wildlife. Campers frequently report bird watching opportunities and occasional deer sightings at dawn and dusk.
What you should know
Terrain and leveling: Some campsites require preparation for uneven ground. A camper at COE Hugo Lake Kiamichi Park shared: "The pads are all set for RVs leaving little room for a tent and at that nothing very level."
Water quality variations: The lake water clarity changes seasonally. A visitor noted, "The water is brown but nice and cold for the summer so we couldn't complain!"
Bug considerations: Be prepared for insects during warmer months. One camper warned, "While exploring I was attacked by ants so heads up on that."
Cell service reliability: Coverage varies by location and carrier. A camper reported, "We had weak, but useable, cell connection with T-Mobile."
Flooding potential: Lower elevation sites sometimes experience flooding after heavy rains. A reviewer observed "There is some obvious flood damage to some of the sites near the water with a few not useable at all."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several camping areas feature play structures for children. A visitor to Shady Oaks RV Resort shared, "Enjoyed our stay at Shady Oaks! Friendly staff, a playground for the kids, right across the highway from the lake, and a family friendly bar and grill located right at the campground."
Group camping sections: Some campgrounds offer dedicated areas for family gatherings. A camper noted, "B loop has a nice group camp section that is set back just off the main B loop, which would be great for families."
Water safety measures: The swimming areas lack lifeguards, requiring parental supervision. One family reported their experience: "Our family had such an amazing time tent camping on the water!"
Cabin alternatives: For families wanting camping comfort, cabin rentals provide a middle ground. A visitor explained, "We rented a resort cabin for a night... These cabins have 2 bedrooms, a full bathroom and kitchen and a nice porch overlooking the lake."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Water and electric connections are widely available, but sewer hookups are limited. At COE Pat Mayse Lake Pat Mayse West Campground, campers find "water, electric, a picnic table, a fire pit and a lantern post."
Pad materials: RV sites feature various surface types. A visitor noted, "One of the RV areas looked pretty nice with paved pads but the other was a little more rugged with unpaved pads."
Length considerations: Some sites accommodate larger rigs with room to stay hitched. A camper reported, "We were in spot J14, it is long enough to stay hooked up to our 34' TT. Level concrete pads, electric and water with water views."
Solar alternatives: During cloudy periods, electrical hookups provide backup power. One RVer shared their experience: "Due to rain and cloudy weather spent 3 nights for electrical hook up, I have solar system so with long periods of no sun just as easy to plug in and pay versus running generator."
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