Tent camping around Mount Vernon, Texas centers on lakefront sites and woodland clearings across multiple counties. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F from June through September, while spring camping offers moderate 70-80°F days with higher precipitation chances. Most dispersed camping locations maintain seasonal accessibility with minimal road closures during winter months.
What to do
Water activities at multiple lakes: Fish Hawke Point at Lake Hawkins offers excellent opportunities for kayaking and water sports. As Kevin S. notes, "It's a great spot for Kayaking and other water sports, or just relaxing in the water. Also, a great place to watch 4th of July fire works show put on every year."
Horseback riding encounters: At Sleep Under The Pecan Trees, campers can interact with horses that roam the property. Aaron W. shares, "Wild, yet docile horses will approach you. You can pet them and feed them by hand." The property spans 100 acres with scattered ponds throughout.
Fishing in stocked ponds: Multiple camping areas provide fishing access without requiring licenses on private property. Mike J. recalls camping with his daughter at Sleep Under The Pecan Trees: "She caught her 1st bass in the pond as well. The entire property is simply beautiful."
Disc golf courses: Several campgrounds have developed disc golf facilities for guests. At Harpoon Larry's Camping, the owner is "developing a disc golf course on property," according to LaRee S.
What campers like
Secluded clearings: Harpoon Larry's Camping offers private camping spots surrounded by pine trees. LaRee S. describes it as "completely secluded and surrounded by pines. The space would be perfect for families and groups! There's lots of space to run around and spread out."
Minimal light pollution: The rural setting around Mount Vernon provides excellent stargazing opportunities at night. Thomas Lake Park offers "very quiet area with plenty of space to set up camp" according to wyatt, making it ideal for night sky viewing.
Wildlife encounters: Beyond horses, various wildlife viewing opportunities exist. Aaron W. mentions at Sleep Under The Pecan Trees you'll hear "Donkeys hee-hawing, birds singing, and fire flies glowing" during evening hours.
Freshly maintained grounds: Many campsites receive regular maintenance. Emma H. noted at Thomas Lake Park: "We got the best sleep we've ever had camping with the soft grass and our sleeping pad" and mentioned "Site and road to it are both well-maintained."
What you should know
Vehicle clearance requirements: Some camping areas require appropriate vehicles to access. At Harpoon Larry's Camping, LaRee S. advises, "Definitely bring a high clearance vehicle if you want to make it to the clearing."
Facility limitations: Most dispersed camping locations offer minimal amenities. Vanessa M. describes Fish Hawke Point at Lake Hawkins as having "spots are first come first serve, primitive, and lack amenities. Toilets are winterized."
Weather considerations: Summer humidity affects comfort levels even in shaded areas. Stacy D. notes at Lake Of The Pines, "Heavy tree cover means little air movement, even right on the water" and "you'll want a fan in the summer."
Water safety awareness: Some lakes in the region contain wildlife requiring caution. Stacy D. warns, "Wildlife can include alligators so watch your little ones!" at Lake Of The Pines.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly wildlife interactions: Children often enjoy the animal encounters available at select sites. At Sleep Under The Pecan Trees, Mike J. shares, "Took my 6 year old daughter for her first camping trip and she loved it. The horses came into our camp and she was mesmerized by their size and beauty."
First fishing experiences: Several ponds across the region are well-stocked for beginner fishing. Mike J. recommends: "I'd strongly recommend Dads to bring their girls and boys out to enjoy this amazing display of nature and wildlife."
Proximity to supplies: Most camping areas maintain reasonable distances to stores. Aaron W. notes, "You will be about 12 minutes away from the nearest Walmart, in case you forget some camping supplies."
Ground conditions: Check site conditions before setting up tents. Emma H. advises at Thomas Lake Park to "Watch out for mud spots in the grass" despite the overall comfortable ground.
Tips from RVers
Activity-based camping: RV sites often serve as base camps for regional exploration rather than destination experiences themselves. Andrew A. describes Greer Hill - Mineola Nature Preserve Campground C as "Barebones on purpose" where you "Set up your basic base camp near a picnic table and fire ring then go out into the park to hike, bike, horseback ride, frisbee golf, kayak and observe nature."
Local attractions: Many campgrounds provide access to non-camping amenities worth visiting. Andrew A. mentions, "Also there is an incredible winery on premises too. Grand Oaks Winery" near the Mineola Nature Preserve.
Access road conditions: The quality of roads leading to camping areas varies significantly. Wyatt notes about Thomas Lake Park, "There's about a mile long dirt road to get to the campground" that may present challenges for larger vehicles during wet conditions.
