Campsites near Gilmer, Texas offer diverse terrain across elevations ranging from 350 to 500 feet above sea level. The region features mixed pine and hardwood forests characteristic of East Texas, with sandy loam soils that drain quickly after rainfall. Winter temperatures typically range from 35-60°F, with occasional freezing periods from December through February.
What to do
Paddling opportunities: Tyler State Park's 64-acre spring-fed lake provides calm waters for kayaking and canoeing. "Pine forest and beautiful lake for swimming, paddel boarding (SUP), or fishing. Lots of hiking/mountain bike trails. Day use swimming area can get crowded on the weekends but there's plenty of quieter access points," notes Peter F. at Tyler State Park Campground.
Family-friendly biking: The trail systems in the region offer routes for cyclists of varying skill levels. "Sites are good but trails for biking and hiking are great!!" states Jill C. at Tyler State Park. Most trails are under 5 miles, making them suitable for half-day excursions.
Fishing spots: Daingerfield State Park offers accessible shoreline fishing with common catches including bass, catfish, and sunfish. As Dianne C. explains, "The lake is perfect for kayaking and fishing from one of several docks. Tranquil, peaceful, clean and easy access from I-20 N. of Tyler."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds in the area have natural buffers between sites. At Daingerfield State Park Campground, Anne P. shares, "Privacy if that's your thing, it is for us and our three dogs. However, there is an awesome pavilion, swim dock, picnic area and paddle boat area. Something for everyone."
Waterfront access: Sites with lake access are particularly valued for their recreational potential. "This is a beautiful park with plentiful trails for mountain biking and hiking. Bathrooms are always clean and the staff is polite and helpful," as one visitor observed at Lake Hawkins RV Park.
Well-maintained facilities: Campers regularly mention the upkeep of amenities. At Lake Hawkins County RV Park, Cindy S. notes, "Great local park. Small but well maintained. Owned and operated by a really great family. This is one of our 'go to' parks when we stay close to home."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most parks require advance booking, especially for weekend camping. At Tyler State Park Campground, Tammie L. explains, "Great little lake to fish, kayak, swim and hike! Hard to get reservations because it is so popular! If you get reservations it's kinda like winning the lottery."
Weather planning: East Texas has high humidity even outside summer. Late fall through early spring offers more comfortable camping with less insect activity. "This is definitely one of my favorite campsites. Stayed on a Sunday night in February so the campground was empty," reports Hannah B. at Daingerfield State Park.
Wildlife encounters: Prepare for encounters with local wildlife, particularly at night. "Great spot found a week out from trip. Just wanted to spend a night there to check it all out. Great trails and swimming area. The shop was closed while I was there and the boat rentals as well. Be careful for raccoons saw a lot of them while here!" warns Myc C.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks have dedicated play areas for children. Becca H. from Lake Bob Sandlin State Park Campground shares, "My family and I enjoy the trails and lake at this park. The playground is one of the best I've seen at the state parks we've been to! We love our SP so close to home!"
Swimming areas: Designated swimming spots with gradually sloping entry points provide safer water recreation. "The lake was perfect and had a nice beach. We were able to rent kayaks and paddle boats. The hiking is not the greatest but it was easy enough for my toddler," remarks Sarah J. about Tyler State Park.
Educational opportunities: Wildlife observation opportunities abound with early morning being optimal for spotting deer. "Kayak launch isn't easy to get to but the have provided a slide for yaks to get from the parking area to/from the launch. Once you're there though its like you're transported somewhere else and you weave your way through a winding canal to reach the lake (very cool)," describes Becca H. at Lake Bob Sandlin.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Many campgrounds have variable site conditions. At Music Springs, David T. notes, "This was the closest place with camping near Longview. We have looked at it before, but plans feel through. We got a camping spot Mothers day weekend. It was wonderful. Hosts are great and its well kept."
Power management: Most parks offer electricity, but amperage varies. "Concrete pads, lots of shade, many with views of the lake (very clear water for the area) great little campground store with necessities. Very spacious sites!! Nice metal picnic table and fire ring," explains Emily B. at Lake Hawkins County RV Park.
Leveling requirements: Some parks require significant leveling equipment. "Sites are semi level, full hookup, some shade! Great little lake to fish, kayak, swim and hike!" advises Tammie L. when describing Tyler State Park Campground.
