Located about 100 miles east of Dallas, Hawkins sits in the Piney Woods region of Texas where the landscape features rolling hills, tall pine forests, and numerous spring-fed lakes. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity, while winter nights can drop below freezing. Many campgrounds in this area provide electrical hookups essential during these temperature extremes.
What to Do
Kayaking opportunities: At Tyler State Park, the lake offers excellent conditions for paddlers. "The lake is perfect for kayaking, paddling boarding (SUP), or fishing. Lots of hiking/mountain bike trails," notes Peter F.
Geocaching adventures: Walleye Park provides interesting terrain for this modern treasure hunting activity. "We were able to cook out and go geocaching," mentions Natalie S., who visited during December when the park was nearly empty.
Waterfront relaxation: Lake Holbrook Park features sandy shores for day use. "The spots are nice and spaced. Only one other camper here when we arrived," reports Daisee Mae S., who appreciated the park's "breathtaking" waterfront despite noticing trash issues.
Volleyball games: At Walleye Park, every campsite has lake access with piers. "A few of the spots are considered premium and accommodate larger rigs," explains Cheryl D., adding "There is a volleyball area, but I've never seen a net."
Lake fishing: Lake Bob Sandlin State Park offers productive fishing from dedicated structures. "Great location. Fishing dock," notes Mark J. in his succinct review that highlights the park's primary attraction.
What Campers Like
Spacious, private sites: Many campers appreciate the secluded feel at Daingerfield State Park. "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," describes Anne P.
Wildlife viewing: Multiple parks offer chances to see native animals. "Four deer walked right through our site!! We had a regular nighttime visit from some bold raccoons," mentions Rebecca at Lake Bob Sandlin State Park, adding a caution about "overnight spider webs cover everything."
Water activities: Tyler State Park remains popular for its swimming areas. "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," explains Sarah J.
Night sky viewing: Some parks offer better star-gazing than others. "Tranquil, peaceful, clean and easy access from I-20 N. of Tyler," describes Dianne C., who participated in a teardrop trailer gathering at Tyler State Park.
What You Should Know
Security considerations: Park management varies widely between locations. "Local police did regular daylight drive thrus" at Walleye Park according to Napunani, who noted this positive aspect while also mentioning "No security gate closed overnight" and "No camp host."
Noise factors: Some parks have unexpected sound issues. "There's a power plant over there. Didn't know that when I booked my site," reports Shane H. about Martin Creek Lake State Park, though he still enjoyed the "clean, well kept" sites.
Reservation requirements: Planning ahead is essential for popular locations. "Hard to get reservations because it is so popular! If you get reservations it's kinda like winning the lottery 😃. But it's all worth it!" explains Tammie L. about Tyler State Park.
Unique glamping options: Music Springs offers distinctive accommodation types near Hawkins. "Has a variety of unique lodging, as well as tent sites. Owners are attentive and accommodating. I recommended the teepee," suggests Blake M.
Tips for Camping with Families
Kid-friendly water features: Jellystone Park Tyler offers extensive water attractions. "It was great to take advantage of the water amenities available! My kids loved the splash pad/water slides (I did too!)," shares Savanah H.
Playground options: Several parks feature recreational structures. "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!" enthuses Becca H. about Tyler State Park.
Seasonal activities: Jellystone offers organized entertainment that varies by time of year. "So much fun and lots to do with hay rides, gem stone mining, laser tag, outdoor movies, crafts, mini golf, basketball, volleyball," describes Savanah H., who visited during December.
Swimming areas: Lake Bob Sandlin State Park provides designated beach zones. "Amazing adventure at the Kayak Launch... Yaked over to the day-use swim area that was very nice," reports Becca H., who particularly enjoyed the unique kayak launch system.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Martin Creek Lake State Park, site positioning matters. "Site 40 was wooded and very spacious. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring and ours had water and electric," notes Lori C., adding that the park has "an abundance of Poison Ivy around."
Hookup considerations: The Boulders at Lake Tyler provides comprehensive services for RVers. "The sites are all concrete and have a picnic table and large fireplace/grill. The staff is very friendly and accommodating," explains Sheila C., who recommends looking closely at the park map when booking.
Water pressure concerns: Utility quality varies between parks and seasons. "We have camped several times here but this time the water pressure was a joke. Very few campers. We had to use onboard water pump for everything," reports Bill B. about his stay at Walleye Park.
Accessibility issues: Some sites pose challenges for larger rigs. "Our site was a little tricky to get into the site deep enough that your slides don't stick out into the road. It made our patio area smaller. But it was right on the water so it was worth it," explains Sheila C. about The Boulders at Lake Tyler.
