Camping sites near Longview, Texas offer primarily wooded settings with pine trees typical of East Texas. The region sits at an elevation of around 300 feet with a subtropical climate that averages 46 inches of annual rainfall. Summer camping requires preparation for humidity and temperatures that regularly exceed 95°F, while spring brings potential for severe thunderstorms and occasional flooding at lakeside campsites.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Buckhorn Creek on Lake O' The Pines, campers have easy water access for fishing. "Lots to do with fishing or visiting nearby historic Jefferson. Very popular so reservations are recommended," notes one visitor. The lake is known for bass, crappie and catfish.
Kayaking and canoeing: Waterfront sites provide convenient access for small watercraft. "RV spots right along the water. You can put in a kayak or canoe from these spots," reports a camper at Brushy Creek. Both motorized and non-motorized boats are permitted on most area lakes.
Hiking trails: The region offers several trails through pine forests. A camper at Tyler State Park shared, "I hiked all three trails, which were easy to follow but not that well marked where they crossed." Some trails connect to lake swimming areas or fishing spots, making them practical routes rather than challenging hikes.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds feature well-separated sites with concrete pads. "Big rv spots. Definitely not on top of each other. Very clean park," reports a Brushy Creek visitor. Another camper at Martin Creek Lake State Park appreciated that "Site 40 was wooded and very spacious."
Primitive island camping: For those seeking more seclusion, Martin Creek Lake offers unique opportunities. "We highly recommend their primitive camping option on the island. Remember to bring your wagon, the parking lot is a good 70 yards to the camp sites," advises one camper who enjoyed the separation from RVs and more developed areas.
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness varies between parks but receives frequent mention. "Bathrooms nice and big and clean," notes a visitor to Shallow Creek RV Park. The park's cleanliness extends beyond bathrooms, with another camper commenting on the "Exceptionally clean. Good lighting."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Summer heat impacts comfort and water activities. A camper at Buckhorn Creek noted, "Was very hot when we went. There was no shade even with our awnings and canopies up! Got in the water to cool off and water was even hotter."
Bug protection: Insects are a common challenge in East Texas camping. "Bring deep woods off to keep the mosquitos at bay!" advises a regular Brushy Creek visitor. Another camper faced unexpected challenges: "The only deduction was due to an abundance of ants that invaded our RV and were difficult to resolve."
Noise factors: Some campgrounds experience unexpected noise issues. A Martin Creek Lake visitor noted, "There's a power plant over there. Didn't know that when I booked my site." Similarly, at Buckhorn Creek, a camper reported, "There were boats going back-and-forth across the water at all hours of the night and several dogs barking to no end."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks offer play equipment for children. At Martin Creek Lake State Park, one visitor mentioned, "We enjoyed the hiking trail, playground and did some fishing." Another camper at Tyler State Park noted, "The playground is one of the best I've seen at the state parks we've been to!"
Swimming areas: Designated swimming spots provide safer water access. "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," shared a visitor to Tyler State Park.
Activity planning: Many parks offer scheduled events. At Stillwater RV Resort, "They had a bunch of activities for the holiday weekend which were fun! Duck races on two days, firework show (very good and free), bingo, chalk contest, find the flags, etc!"
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: Position can vary significantly between sites. At Stillwater RV Resort, one camper advised, "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!"
Leveling requirements: Many concrete pads still require adjustment. "You will need to do some leveling," notes a Stillwater visitor, while another mentioned, "Sites are concrete but Not Level." This appears common across multiple parks in the region.
Reservation timing: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons. "Every site is a concrete pad with a picnic table and fire ring. Hookups are water and electricity only, no sewer. Phone service is spotty," explains a regular at Brushy Creek, highlighting the need to book well in advance for sites with preferred amenities.
