Camping cabins near Gilmer, Texas offer access to East Texas' Piney Woods region, which features rolling terrain with elevations between 300-500 feet and typically sees humid conditions with mild winters and hot summers. The area's mixed pine and hardwood forests create dense canopies over many cabin sites, while the numerous lakes near Gilmer remain warm enough for swimming from late spring through early fall.
What to do
Fishing from shore or dock: Tyler State Park provides multiple fishing locations from docks around its 64-acre lake. "The lake was perfect and had a nice beach. We were able to rent kayaks and paddle boats," notes Sarah J., who brought her toddler along for the outdoor experience.
Paddle sports on calm waters: Lake Bob Sandlin State Park offers a unique kayak launch setup that adds to the adventure. "Kayak launch isn't easy to get to but they 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," explains Becca H.
Hiking through pine forests: Several short trails wind through the forests at Martin Creek Lake State Park, providing views of some remarkable trees. "I hiked all three trails, which were easy to follow but not that well marked where they crossed. There are some unbelievably tall Loblolly Pines back on the trails - simply amazing!" reports Lori C.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The lakes and forests near Gilmer attract various animals visitors frequently spot. "One morning, as I was sitting drinking my coffee, four deer walked right through our site!" reports Rebecca at Lake Bob Sandlin State Park, though she also cautions about nighttime visitors: "We had a regular nighttime visit from some bold raccoons, so definitely put your goodies and trash away."
Varied water activities: Caddo Lake State Park offers unique bayou paddling experiences among cypress trees. "Kayaking this area was BEAUTIFUL and just unforgettable from our trip to this part of the state. You get to camp among the trees and spanish moss and water," writes Kim B., though she advises awareness of local wildlife: "The bugs are awful, the gators are a little scary, but that's the price you pay for the beauty."
Clean, well-maintained facilities: Most cabins and camping areas maintain high standards of cleanliness. "Pristine clean restroom/showerhouse. Seemed recently renovated," notes a Napunani at Daingerfield State Park, adding that the campground offers "40 FHU sites with no park dump station."
What you should know
Reservation timing matters: The most popular cabin locations book up quickly, especially during summer. "It's hard to get reservations because it is so popular! If you get reservations it's kinda like winning the lottery," explains Tammie L. about Tyler State Park.
Noise levels vary by location: Some parks have more ambient noise than others. "The big turn off for me on this park is that, despite its beauty, there is incessant road noise that you hear from every campsite," notes Sarah D. about Caddo Lake State Park, adding that "if you're just looking to escape the city and get away for a while, there aren't a ton of trails here."
Seasonal insect activity: Many parks report intense insect activity during warmer months. "The mosquitos were on the Down slide but if you come, bring bug spray. It should go without saying, big bits of standing water in Texas, but ya know," advises Sarah D. Another camper at Martin Creek warns about "an abundance of Poison Ivy around. So if you are bothered by that be very careful."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds for children: Daingerfield State Park offers multiple family-friendly amenities. "There is an awesome pavilion, swim dock, picnic area and paddle boat area. Something for everyone," shares Anne P., who brought three dogs along on her camping trip.
Swimming areas with amenities: Several parks maintain designated swimming spots with facilities. "The playground is one of the best I've seen at the state parks we've been to!" reports Becca H. about Tyler State Park. At Martin Creek, one camper notes "Pretty cool playground, trails to explore, covered picnic tables in the swim area, nice fishing piers."
Screened shelters for comfort: For families concerned about insects or wanting more structure than a tent, screened shelters offer alternatives to cabins. "The screened shelters at Martin Creek were IMMACULATE to say the least! They seem cob-webby from the outside but once inside, the concrete floor is smoother up the edges of the walls about 2.5', reducing entry of insects via cracks in the joints of floor and wall," explains Heidi R., who adds that "The rafters in these shelters were spaced out far enough for me to hang my hammock."
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Big Al's Barefoot Bay offers lakefront sites but has some limitations. "A little cramped with the space between campers but the 'backyards' for each lake view site makes up for it and it was a beautiful view, lots of space for the kids to play," explains Charlie H.
Pad characteristics: Pay attention to the descriptions of camping pads when booking. At Daingerfield, "BIG PINE camping area only big rig friendly (longer than 20 ft) out of 40 FHU sites," notes one camper, who adds that while no side-to-side leveling was required, "Asphalt parking pad heaved various places due to tree roots creating numerous tripping hazard."
Internet connectivity: Cell service varies significantly throughout the region. At Daingerfield, one camper reported "No park Wifi" and "1 bar AT&T in BIG PINE" camping area. Similarly, at Barefoot Bay Marina, a visitor mentioned that "the WiFi is spotty," which may affect those needing to stay connected.
