Martin Creek Lake State Park provides a variety of camping options near Easton, Texas, surrounded by tall pine forests and water recreation opportunities. The park is situated at approximately 380 feet above sea level in the Piney Woods region of East Texas. Summer temperatures often reach into the 90s, while winters remain relatively mild with occasional freezes.
What to do
Kayaking on Caddo Lake: Explore the cypress trees draped with Spanish moss at Caddo Lake State Park Campground. "The big attraction here is the lake, which looks like something straight out of a Louisiana swamp movie. Huge old cypress trees with Spanish moss hanging from the limbs," notes Bill N., who recommends getting a lake map from nearby bait shops.
Fishing opportunities: Cast your line at Brushy Creek where campsites offer direct water access. A camper mentioned, "We had so much fun! There is a lot of fishing. The camp grounds were very well kept, and the bathrooms and showers were very clean as odor free."
Outdoor games: Several campgrounds feature recreational facilities beyond hiking. At Tyler State Park, visitors enjoy "lots of hiking/mountain bike trails. Day use swimming area can get crowded on the weekends but there's plenty of quieter access points," according to Peter F.
What campers like
Privacy and space: Shallow Creek RV Park earns high marks for its layout and amenities. "2 pools, hot tub, splash park, play area. Internet good, though we did put out our starlink as we didn't want to hog everyone," writes Mary T., who appreciated the concrete pads and minimal leveling needed.
Natural surroundings: The pine forests create a distinctive camping atmosphere. At Buckhorn Creek, one visitor described it as "a small, serene, and well maintained" campground where "each site has a picnic table and fire ring. Some of the waterfront sites have a deck to sit and relax on."
Clean facilities: Multiple campgrounds in the area maintain well-kept bathhouses and amenities. At Fernbrook RV Park, a camper noted, "The staff was helpful & super friendly. There was thick beautiful well groomed grass & paved level sites. Playground was basic but again very well kept."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Summer heat requires planning for pet-friendly camping near Easton. At Tyler State Park Campground, the "playground is one of the best I've seen at the state parks we've been to," according to Becca H., but other campgrounds report playground equipment getting extremely hot in direct sun.
Noise levels: Some campgrounds have nearby infrastructure that creates background noise. At Caddo Lake State Park, Sarah D. mentions "incessant road noise that you hear from every campsite. If you're a big boater, kayaker, or fisher, maybe you won't mind because it's the best place to do those things."
Reservation requirements: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. "Very popular so reservations are recommended," warns Jack C. about Brushy Creek. Another camper describes getting a spot at Tyler State Park as "kinda like winning the lottery."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Swimming areas provide relief from Texas heat at most parks. At Martin Creek Lake State Park Campground, Becca H. reports "Pretty cool play ground, trails to explore, covered picnic tables in the swim area, nice fishing piers. A really cool SP."
Accessible trails: Seek out short, manageable trails for young hikers. Tyler State Park offers paths that are "easy enough for my toddler," according to Sarah J., who adds "The lake was perfect and had a nice beach. We were able to rent kayaks and paddle boats."
Wildlife viewing: Many parks offer opportunities to spot local wildlife. Dustin S. recommends Martin Creek Lake's primitive island camping: "We enjoyed the hiking trail, playground and did some fishing. We got a spot on the point of the island and had pretty much the whole island to ourselves."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Look for level sites with adequate spacing between neighbors. At Laguna Vista RV Park, James R. found "basic RV park with full hookups with level gravel lots and easy maneuverability. Pull through accommodated my 44 ft. MH, Jeep with mini golf cart carrier easily."
Pest prevention: Several campgrounds report challenges with insects. Lori C. warns about Martin Creek Lake State Park: "My 'beware' is that there is an abundance of Poison Ivy around. So if you are bothered by that be very careful."
Access considerations: Check road conditions and site specifications before booking. At Cowboy Camp RV park, visitors appreciate the "clean park. Great laundry facility and bath house" with full hookups close to Hallsville.
