196 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
The Piney Woods region surrounding Mineola, Texas features a diverse range of camping environments within a 30-mile radius. Tyler State Park, located 20 miles southeast, stands out with its pine-forested hills and clear lake, offering RV sites with hookups, tent camping areas, and cabins for rent. Closer to town, the Mineola Civic Center and RV Park provides convenient access with level concrete pads and full hookups. Lake Hawkins County RV Park, about 15 miles east, combines lakeside camping with boat access and improved swimming areas. The region's camping options extend from developed sites with modern amenities to more rustic experiences at places like Lake Holbrook Park-South and the tent-only sites at Greer Hill in the Mineola Nature Preserve.
Reservations are essential for most established campgrounds in the area, particularly during spring and summer months when Tyler State Park often books months in advance. As one camper noted, "Tyler State Park made my husband change his mind about camping in Texas. He loved the large trees, said it was the closest he'd felt to home in quite some time." The East Texas climate brings hot, humid summers where temperatures regularly exceed 90°F, making fall through spring the most comfortable camping seasons. Cell service varies significantly between campgrounds, with stronger coverage at sites closer to towns. Many campgrounds offer Texas State Park Pass discounts, saving visitors on daily entrance and camping fees.
Wildlife encounters form a common thread in camper experiences throughout the region. Tyler State Park campers frequently mention raccoons that become bold after dark. According to one visitor, "Take a walk at night on the park road and shine your flashlight into the trees. Glowing pairs of eyes will be staring back at you." Lakeside camping receives consistently positive reviews, with fishing opportunities at multiple parks. The mature pine forests provide welcome shade during summer months, while fall brings milder temperatures and colorful foliage. Campers seeking privacy should research specific sites, as many reviewers note that campgrounds can feel crowded during peak periods, particularly at water-adjacent locations where sites often have limited separation from neighbors.
"He was very unenthusiastic about camping in Texas. Well Tyler State Park made him change his mind! He LOVED the large trees, said it was the closest he'd felt to home in quite some time."
"This is my favorite state park in Texas! Lots of options for all kinds of campers."
from $18 - $60 / night
Check Availability"Loved being 15 ft from the water's edge. Some train and traffic noise. "
"There's a fair amount of trash around, but the campground's relaxing, free, with no hassles, and right on the lake. Sites aren't marked and the campground can fit maybe six or eight camps."
"This is a rv park that is maintained by the Mineola Civic Center. The sites are level concrete pads with full hookups. Wifi is good and Verizon, T Mobile and AT&T work well."
"Walking distance of big grocery store. 15 miles from Lake Fork. They even bring you a 55 gallon garbage container."
from $34 - $39 / night
Check Availability"Roads make it easy to get around and get into your site. Most pads are concrete, very clean well kept campground. View of lake is wonderful, peaceful and huge spaces."
"This is one of our “go to” parks when we stay close to home."
"Great spot in the Piney woods of East Texas. Minutes from Tyler State park. Perfect spot for large families or groups."
"Great evening movies, lots of fun activities, and close to Tyler if you decide to venture out and get some good food, or find something to do!"
"There are porta poties and trash barrels around the campsite. Beautiful views of the water. Couldn't hear nearby road. Could fit a small (<20 ft) travel trailer in here."
"Make sure to get water and food before setting up, not much close by, so whatever direction you are coming from, get supplies for your duration. Have a great time, we did!"
"Set up your basic base camp near a picnic table and fire ring the. Go out into the park to hike, bike, horseback ride, frisbee golf, kayak and observe nature."
from $5 / night
"Easy location to access from I-20. Verizon works great. We’ve been several places throughout the country and our site was extremely level."
"Peaceful surroundings. You can hear the traffic noise. Tmobile had good service. Didn't have to unhook with 43 foot 5th Wheel."
from $40 - $95 / night
Check Availability"I was on my way to boondock at Lake Quitman West Dam. I called ahead and was told I could use the designated dump station near the back of the museum at the park. It was 5 dollars."
GuideWe camped here during the Alert Academy Family Camp in October. Good little campground with all you need. Open spaces with lots of shade. It is a private campground so check the rules and make sure to communicate with staff. But we really enjoyed our stay here.
TravelerMixed Thoughts: Disappointing, “Looks Nice,” and “Oh Yeah, That Part Was Good.”
Sometimes the negative outweighs the positives!
We reserved party space at Twin Lakes Tiny Home & RV Park in Mount Pleasant and rented Little House #1. The property has potential, but unfortunately our experience fell far short.
First, don’t assume Little House #1 is actually at the lake’s edge based on the professional site map. It wasn’t where we expected. Also, the office closes at 6 PM Friday, which is important when you need a key.
The people working on-site seemed nice and appeared to be trying. The bigger problems were the accommodations and lack of follow-through.
The main AC struggled to cool the house below 85+ degrees. The master bedroom AC worked, so we left that door open trying to help cool the rest of the house. The loft where some of our six kids were staying was especially hot.
Then came the insects.
The first night, our kids had ants in their beds. To their credit, someone arrived within about an hour, sprayed and changed the sheets. Unfortunately, that was basically the last maintenance assistance we received.
By the second day, the ants were back. One of us also received a nasty spider bite in the kitchen. After being away during the day, we returned to find the house even less cooled than before.
We repeatedly called the voicemail and text line seeking assistance. No response.
Before dark on the second night, we finally packed up and left.
Sunday morning, someone identifying himself as the General Manager called, apologized and said someone would contact us within a day or so to discuss the problems.
I waited a week. Nothing.
I even sent another message explaining that I write honest reviews and wanted to give management an opportunity to respond concerning our paid stay. Still nothing.
There ARE positives. The property looks nice and has potential. The party area worked for our gathering, and the staff we encountered seemed pleasant.
However, read the event agreement carefully. There are numerous circumstances where your card can be charged—someone uses a paddle boat, stays beyond the permitted time, furniture isn’t returned as required, etc. I understand rules and holding guests accountable. I simply wish we had experienced that same level of accountability when the property failed to provide what we paid for.
We paid for a weekend getaway but dealt with inadequate AC, ants in the children’s beds, a spider bite, unanswered requests for help, an early departure and a promised management follow-up that never happened.
There really is potential here, and I hope they address these issues.
Unfortunately, based on our experience, I cannot recommend staying here.
I sincerely hope your experience is different.
TravelerMixed Thoughts: Disappointing, “Looks Nice,” and “Oh Yeah, That Part Was Good.”
Sometimes the negative outweighs the positives!
We reserved party space at Twin Lakes Tiny Home & RV Park in Mount Pleasant and rented Little House #1. The property has potential, but unfortunately our experience fell far short.
First, don’t assume Little House #1 is actually at the lake’s edge based on the professional site map. It wasn’t where we expected. Also, the office closes at 6 PM Friday, which is important when you need a key.
The people working on-site seemed nice and appeared to be trying. The bigger problems were the accommodations and lack of follow-through.
The main AC struggled to cool the house below 85+ degrees. The master bedroom AC worked, so we left that door open trying to help cool the rest of the house. The loft where some of our six kids were staying was especially hot.
Then came the insects.
The first night, our kids had ants in their beds. To their credit, someone arrived within about an hour, sprayed and changed the sheets. Unfortunately, that was basically the last maintenance assistance we received.
By the second day, the ants were back. One of us also received a nasty spider bite in the kitchen. After being away during the day, we returned to find the house even less cooled than before.
We repeatedly called the voicemail and text line seeking assistance. No response.
Before dark on the second night, we finally packed up and left.
Sunday morning, someone identifying himself as the General Manager called, apologized and said someone would contact us within a day or so to discuss the problems.
I waited a week. Nothing.
I even sent another message explaining that I write honest reviews and wanted to give management an opportunity to respond concerning our paid stay. Still nothing.
There ARE positives. The property looks nice and has potential. The party area worked for our gathering, and the staff we encountered seemed pleasant.
However, read the event agreement carefully. There are numerous circumstances where your card can be charged—someone uses a paddle boat, stays beyond the permitted time, furniture isn’t returned as required, etc. I understand rules and holding guests accountable. I simply wish we had experienced that same level of accountability when the property failed to provide what we paid for.
We paid for a weekend getaway but dealt with inadequate AC, ants in the children’s beds, a spider bite, unanswered requests for help, an early departure and a promised management follow-up that never happened.
There really is potential here, and I hope they address these issues.
Unfortunately, based on our experience, I cannot recommend staying here.
I sincerely hope your experience is different.
ScoutMid-size oak trees all over, starlink internet is ok, very quiet and not crowded. Our electric power was very poor, and the roads are busted up asphalt for the most part. Forget fishing unless you have a boat. We would come again
GuideWe stayed at Canton I-20 RV Park as an overnight stop while traveling between the Dallas area and Monroe, Louisiana, and it couldn't have been more convenient. If you're traveling east or west on I-20, this is one of those parks that's easy to get to without wasting time driving far off the interstate. It's also close enough to Buc-ee's in Terrell to stock up on snacks, fuel, and anything else you forgot before getting back on the road. Even though we were only there for one night, the park was clean, quiet, and well maintained. Check-in was simple, the hookups worked perfectly, and we had a peaceful night's sleep before continuing our trip. I can also see why this park is so popular during Canton's famous First Monday Trade Days. It's only a short drive to the market, and the park offers amenities that would make it a great home base for vendors and shoppers alike. Between the free laundry, swimming pool, covered patio, clean showers, and all-inclusive monthly rates, it seems like an excellent place for both a quick overnight stop and an extended stay. We'll definitely keep Canton I-20 RV Park on our list anytime we're traveling I-20 through East Texas. Whether you're crossing the state, visiting First Monday Trade Days, or just looking for a quiet place to spend the night, it's hard to beat the convenience.
GuideLots of locals stay out here. Everyone is very friendly.
GuideStayed overnight and it was a great stay. Staff were friendly and the views were amazing.
GuideI only have positive things to say. I stayed one night while passing through the area. I car camp so it was really nice they hand one spot available specially for car camping.
The location was pretty easy to find. The grounds are beautiful and the area is thoughtfully set up.
The tent area has outdoor lights strung up, giving it a welcoming and inviting feeling.
The owners made a nightly round to make sure everything was in order, they are very nice and friendly.
I would stay here again if I was passing through.
ScoutThis location is great! Directly across from a bait shop, store, restaurant and bar. Super nice staff! Definitely recommend for a relaxing getaway!
The area surrounding Mineola, Texas features diverse campgrounds within mixed pine and oak woodlands. The region's elevation averages 380 feet above sea level, creating rolling terrain that affects campsite layouts and water drainage during East Texas rainstorms. Between October and April, campers typically experience mild temperatures ranging from 45-75°F with lower humidity than summer months.
Kayaking and paddleboarding: Tyler State Park offers a calm lake environment perfect for beginners and experienced paddlers. "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 Campground.
Mountain biking: The trails at Tyler State Park provide varied terrain for cyclists. "Sites are good but trails for biking and hiking are great!!" shares Jill C. from Tyler State Park. Trails range from beginner-friendly loops to more technical routes with moderate elevation changes.
Frisbee golf: Mineola Nature Preserve includes a disc golf course among its recreational options. "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," explains Andrew A. about Greer Hill, the tent-only camping area within the preserve.
Lake activities: Campers consistently rate the water access highly. "Great RV park, concrete pads, well maintained quiet. This is one of my favorite finds in TX. Everything you need," writes Chris P. about Lake Hawkins County RV Park. The park features a swimming beach with designated areas for campers.
Free camping options: Budget-conscious campers appreciate the no-cost sites. "Boondocking at its finest!" reports Boundless W. about Lake Quitman West Dam, where primitive camping is available without reservation. "Wonderful place to do some Boondocking and for FREE! You can park where you can fit and stay as long as you wish," adds Lawrence P.
Evening activities: Many campgrounds organize nighttime entertainment. "Great evening movies, lots of fun activities, and close to Tyler if you decide to venture out and get some good food, or find something to do!" says Savanah H. about Jellystone Park Tyler. Campers also mention spotting wildlife after dark at several area campgrounds.
Reservation realities: The best places to camp near Mineola book quickly during peak periods. "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!" warns Tammie L. about Tyler State Park.
Restroom facilities vary greatly: Some campgrounds have modern facilities while others offer minimal or no amenities. "I stayed down on the lakefront for 7 days. Only 2 campers besides me. Room for many many more. Fish jumping! Quiet at night. No bathrooms, so be totally self contained!" advises Luann K. about Lake Quitman West Dam.
Trash management concerns: Lake Holbrook Park-South suffers from litter problems. "No bathrooms and the trash cans are all upside down and screwed to polls. So there is trash EVERYWHERE! In the lake, on the shore, on the roadways. Other than the trash this place is absolutely breathtaking," reports Daisee Mae S. from Lake Holbrook Park-South.
Water activities for kids: Several campgrounds feature swimming areas designed for families. "We visited here for a weekend get away with friends and their families. We all have young kids and had a blast, playing at the sandy beach on the lake and just enjoying some play time around the campsites," explains Gabby T. about Lake Hawkins County RV Park.
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer excellent play equipment. "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!" says Becca H. about Tyler State Park.
Community facilities: Music Springs provides unique shared amenities. "The bathrooms and shower are clean, there's a community kitchen that has a microwave, coffee maker, and refrigerator. The whole place is decorated very nicely. There's a nice lawn and games, plenty of chairs, lights in the trees, and even wifi," describes Karen M.
Level sites matter: Experienced RVers appreciate well-maintained pads. "Dean, the owner and manager, was exceptionally nice. The area is quiet and well maintained. Easy location to access from I-20. Verizon works great. We've been several places throughout the country and our site was extremely level. Plenty of room in pull through sites to keep toad hooked up behind 42' Tiffin Bus," explains Paul C. about The Trails at Lavender Road.
Connectivity considerations: Cell service quality varies significantly between campgrounds. "Roads make it easy to get around and get into your site. Most pads are concrete, very clean well kept campground. View of lake is wonderful, peaceful and huge spaces. Lots of places for kids to play or ride bikes. Great At&t signal to work lake side," shares Jon S. about Lake Hawkins County RV Park.
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds offer full hookups. "Limited number of full hook ups but they have a honey wagon. Will definitely come back to this park," notes Charles P. about Lake Hawkins County RV Park.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Mineola, TX?
According to TheDyrt.com, Mineola, TX offers a wide range of camping options, with 196 campgrounds and RV parks near Mineola, TX and 5 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Mineola, TX?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Mineola, TX is Tyler State Park Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 60 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Mineola, TX?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 5 free dispersed camping spots near Mineola, TX.
Keep Exploring
