Best Tent Camping near Gilmer, TX
Gilmer, Texas offers several tent camping options throughout the surrounding area, with Lake Winnsboro Park providing dispersed tent sites approximately 25 miles west of town. Primitive tent campsites can be found at Fish Hawke Point at Lake Hawkins, where campers can set up directly along the shoreline. Lake of the Pines, located within 20 miles of Gilmer, provides established tent sites with more amenities like showers and toilets, making it suitable for campers seeking a balance between primitive camping and basic facilities.
Most tent sites in the Gilmer area are situated on grassy or pine-needle covered ground, providing natural padding for tent setup. Drive-in access is available at several locations including Lake Winnsboro Park and Lake of the Pines, while Harpoon Larry's Camping and the Mineola Nature Preserve sites require hiking in to reach the campsites. Facilities vary significantly - Lake of the Pines provides showers and toilets, while Thomas Lake Park features only picnic tables with no restroom facilities. Tent campers should note that fires are permitted at most sites but firewood availability is limited, so bringing your own supply is advisable.
The pine forests surrounding Gilmer create a distinctive camping experience with ample shade during summer months. Sites at Lake of the Pines benefit from dense tree cover that creates a secluded atmosphere, though this can reduce air circulation during hot weather. Lake Winnsboro Park offers waterfront tent sites with open views across the lake, providing both scenic vistas and cooling breezes. For more seclusion, Harpoon Larry's Camping features a clearing surrounded by pines that accommodates multiple tents while maintaining privacy from other campers. A visitor commented that "This point is first come first serve, find any spot you like. It's a great spot for kayaking and other water sports, or just relaxing in the water."
