Camping options near Gilmer, Texas include lakeside sites, private RV parks, and seasonal accommodations throughout the East Texas Piney Woods region. The area maintains mild winter temperatures in the 50s-60s°F range and humid summers reaching into the 90s. Cellular reception typically registers stronger for Verizon users than for those with other carriers across campgrounds in this region.
What to do
Fishing access: Lake Bob Sandlin provides multiple entry points for shore fishing directly from waterfront campsites at Big Al's Barefoot Bay. "Sandy spots to swim from at various entry points. Friendly people and several kids that run around playing, making friends. Great place for kayaking," notes one visitor.
Water activities: The summer heat makes swimming popular at parks like Stillwater RV Resort, which features multiple water facilities. "Lazy river, adult-only swim up bar, playground, full service on-site restaurant/bar, coffee shop...this is not normal camping. It's fancy camping," explains a camper.
Antiquing excursions: The region's antique shopping centers are located within 15 miles of several campgrounds. "As a bonus, it is less than 15 miles from Kilgore, the antique capitol of TX," mentions one RVer about Stillwater's convenient location for day trips.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Multiple RV parks prioritize cleanliness in their shower and bathroom facilities. At Shallow Creek RV Park, visitors consistently mention this aspect: "Exceptionally clean and friendly. Good lighting," states one review.
Concrete pads: Level, paved sites are available at several locations, with campers appreciating the stability. "Great RV park, concrete pads, well maintained quiet. This is one of my favorite finds in TX. Everything you need," shares a visitor at Lake Hawkins County RV Park.
Family-friendly amenities: Many parks include dedicated children's areas. "We visited here for a weekend get away with friends and their families. We all have young kids and had a blast, playing at the sandy beach on the lake," reports a Lake Hawkins camper.
What you should know
Site leveling requirements: Despite concrete pads at many parks, some sites require adjustment. "You will need a little side to side leveling for many of the sites," notes a Stillwater visitor.
Sewer hose planning: Hookup placement varies significantly between parks. "Make sure you bring a lot of sewer hose! We had our 20ft and had to go to Walmart to get an extension, they put it nearly at the front of the site!" warns one camper.
Weekend crowds: Summer weekends see significant increases in visitor numbers at waterfront locations. "It gets busy on weekends but is quiet and secluded during the week," explains a visitor at Lake Hawkins.
Limited shade: Many newer RV parks lack mature trees. At The Bluffs RV Park, sites feature "gravel sites, concrete pads for wooden picnic tables" but limited natural shade coverage.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Look for parks with dedicated swimming areas. "Small lake with lots of floating things for kids to climb on, a children's pool with lots of water features," reports a visitor about Stillwater.
Recreation facilities: Several parks maintain playgrounds and open spaces. "Lots of places for kids to play or ride bikes. Several bathroom shower houses, nice beach," mentions a Lake Hawkins visitor.
Weekend activities: Some parks coordinate family events during peak times. "They had a bunch of activities for the holiday weekend which were fun! Duck races on two days, firework show, bingo, chalk contest, find the flags, etc!" shares a Stillwater camper.
Tips from RVers
Cellular connectivity: Service quality varies across locations. "We had great included WiFi and streamed most of our television using it, and our ATT phones were 4 to 5 bars," notes a camper staying at Stillwater.
Utility connection quality: Water pressure consistency differs between parks. "Full hookups, good water pressure, fire pits," reports a visitor at Texas Rose RV Park.
Parking access: Interior roads at some campgrounds present challenges for larger rigs. "Narrow drive in and out," cautions a Shallow Creek visitor, though noting the campground has room for extended stays.
Military discounts: Some parks offer reduced rates for service members. "There is a very generous military discount," mentions a Texas Rose RV Park visitor, making it budget-friendly for qualifying campers.
