Thomas Lake Park provides dispersed camping areas along the lakefront approximately 25 miles east of Atlanta, Texas. Sites feature freshly mowed grass suitable for tent placement with direct water access. During summer months, temperatures typically range from 75-95°F with high humidity. Nearby Lake of the Pines offers more developed facilities for tent campers seeking amenities, while several additional tent campsites near Atlanta, Texas provide alternatives within a 30-mile radius.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Thomas Lake Park includes a functional boat ramp for accessing the water. "There's about a mile long dirt road to get to the campground. Very quiet area with plenty of space to set up camp. Campground overlooks a good sized lake, as well as has a boat ramp," notes camper Wyatt.
Water activities: Earl Williamson Park offers swimming access and boat launches. A camper reports, "Park has swimming, boat launch, disc golf, corn hole and much more highly recommend. Only $12 a night cash only, 2 week max."
Disc golf course: Earl Williamson Park maintains an 18-hole course suitable for beginners and experienced players. "We got to play disc golf at their very nice public (free) 18 hole course. I've been carrying around the discs for years and never got to play. Now I'm hooked!" writes Jeff & Alison H.
What campers like
Quiet camping atmosphere: Lake of the Pines receives limited visitation, creating peaceful conditions. Barrett C. describes it as "Just a really nice little camp ground," while another camper mentions "This location is tranquil and peaceful because it is not very well-liked by the locals."
Bayou-like environment: Lake of the Pines features dense vegetation and characteristic southern flora. Travis F. notes the "good open camping and good fishing," while another camper highlights the natural setting with "The Spanish Moss and dense tree cover makes you feel like you're on the bayou!"
Budget-friendly rates: Teague Lake Primitive and Earl Williamson Park offer economical tent camping options. A camper at Earl Williamson Park explains, "$12 for full hookups. $6 for primitive. We paid for full hookups since the primitive area was overgrown and VERY primitive."
What you should know
Access considerations: Thomas Lake Park requires navigating unpaved roads that can become problematic in wet weather. One camper describes, "We got the best sleep we've ever had camping with the soft grass and our sleeping pad. Watch out for mud spots in the grass."
Limited facilities: Most dispersed tent camping areas near Atlanta, Texas lack running water and toilet facilities. Pack adequate water supplies and portable waste management solutions.
Wildlife awareness: Herron Creek and other waterfront camping areas may have wildlife concerns. At Lake of the Pines, campers are advised that "Wildlife can include alligators so watch your little ones!"
Weather patterns: Summer humidity affects comfort levels at all tent camping locations in the region. A Lake of the Pines camper notes, "Heavy tree cover means little air movement, even right on the water. Campgrounds provide water and electricity; in the heat, you'll need a fan."
Tips for camping with families
Supervised swimming areas: Earl Williamson Park provides designated swimming zones with gradual entry points. One visitor mentions, "This park has a day use area that includes playgrounds, disc golf, fishing piers, and a swim beach that we made good use of."
Playground access: North Shore and Earl Williamson Park include playground equipment for children. Lane M. notes, "Playground for small children. Good star gazing."
Safety considerations: Choose campsites away from steep water access points. Monitor weather forecasts as summer thunderstorms develop quickly in northeast Texas, potentially creating hazardous conditions.
Educational opportunities: Pack field guides for identifying local pine species and wetland birds commonly found at Wright Patman Lake recreation areas and surrounding tent campsites near Atlanta, Texas.
Tips from RVers
Electricity needs: Tent campers utilizing electronics should select sites with electrical hookups. "Campgrounds offer electric and water, you'll want a fan in the summer," suggests a Lake of the Pines reviewer.
Dump station locations: RVers note that Earl Williamson Park maintains accessible facilities. One camper reports, "Our site had water and 50 amp service. There was a dump station that was easy to get to and maintained."
Site selection: Choose level sites for easier tent setup and water runoff. "We were able to just pull in and find a lovely, level, shady spot. We had electricity and a covered pavilion," shares Lea B.
