Camping spots near Kilgore, Texas spread across the piney woods of East Texas, where elevations range from 350 to 500 feet above sea level. The region gets approximately 46 inches of annual rainfall, creating lush woodland environments but also periodic flooding risks during spring months. Fall camping season from September through November offers average temperatures between 55-85°F with significantly reduced humidity compared to summer months.
What to do
Watercraft rentals: Tyler State Park provides kayak and paddle boat rentals for exploring their 64-acre spring-fed lake. "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," notes Sarah J. from Tyler State Park.
Fishing opportunities: Most lakeside campgrounds offer fishing piers and accessible shorelines with catfish being common catches. "Just got home from our first trip to Martin Creek Lake St Park. We had a good time... We enjoyed the hiking trail, playground and did some fishing," shares Dustin S. at Martin Creek Lake State Park.
Water recreation: Swimming areas and splash pads provide relief during hot summer days. "We just completed our first visit to this park! Our daughter has a December birthday, and she decided to not have a party, but to go camping instead! We stayed busy the entire stay!" reports Savanah H. at Jellystone Park Tyler.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain spotless restrooms and shower facilities. "Pull thru, level, concrete pad. Swimming pool & fishing lake. Very little shade. No dog park but lots of green walks for the pups. Great spot if you love antiquing!" reports Jo at Antique Capital RV Park.
Playground amenities: Several parks offer extensive playground options for families with young children. "We brought our Springdale Mini by Keystone to The Boulders for our first ever camping trip and could not have had a better experience. The grounds were clean and well maintained. Concrete sites made setup and leveling super easy," shares Brianna B. at The Boulders at Lake Tyler.
Hiking trails: The region offers moderate hiking paths through pine forests. "Pine forest and beautiful lake for swimming, paddel boarding (SUP), or fishing. Lots of hiking/mountain bike trails. Day use swimming area can get crowded on the weekends but there's plenty of quieter access points," notes Peter F. about Tyler State Park.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Summer temperatures regularly exceed 95°F with high humidity from June through August. "We are 'spoiled' RV'ers used to staying at pretty much top of the line, no kidding, real RV Resorts and this place certainly fits the bill. Its not cheap for sure, but it is wonderful," explains Mark M. about Stillwater RV Resort.
Site leveling: Many campsites require some leveling adjustments, particularly for larger RVs. "Site 40 was wooded and very spacious. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring and ours had water and electric. There was a dump station available," reports Lori C. about Martin Creek Lake State Park.
Reservation requirements: Most popular campgrounds fill completely during summer weekends and holiday periods, requiring reservations 2-3 months in advance. "Just wanted to spend a night there to check it all out. Great trails and swimming area. The shop was closed while I was there and the boat rentals as well. Be careful for raccoons saw a lot of them while here!" warns Myc C. about Tyler State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Safety precautions: Poison ivy grows abundantly in wooded areas, particularly along trails and natural areas. "There are many options to camp at this state park. There's RV sites, tent sites (both primitive and 'cushy'), cabins, cottages and screened shelters," describes Heidi R. about Martin Creek Lake State Park.
Seasonal activities: Holiday weekends typically feature organized family events like outdoor movies and group activities. "Great spot in the Piney woods of East Texas. Minutes from Tyler State park. Perfect spot for large families or groups," advises Sidney R. about Jellystone Park Tyler.
Pet accommodations: Most campgrounds allow pets but have specific leash and cleanup requirements. "The staff was helpful & super friendly. There was thick beautiful well groomed grass & paved level sites. Playground was basic but again very well kept," comments Angel at Fernbrook RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Hookup configurations: Placement of utility hookups varies considerably between campgrounds, affecting setup requirements. "We found this at the last minute and they had room for 25 days. When we got in the owner said he would give us the monthly rate because it was cheaper than 3 weeks. That was nice," shares Mary T. about Shallow Creek RV Park.
Antenna reception: Cell coverage varies widely within the Kilgore area with stronger signals near major highways. "Pulled into campground after hours. Owners had the welcome packet waiting on us with directions to the campsite. Loved that the facilities were secure. Campground is in a quiet area with no road noise," notes ScottFrance at Fernbrook RV Park.
Road access: Some campgrounds have narrow entrance roads that can challenge larger rigs. "The sites were close together, with full hookup's! We had a great time here with our family camping next to us and some friends rented a cabin, which was very nice!" shares Tammie L. about Jellystone Park Tyler.
