Martin Creek Lake State Park offers glamping in Mount Enterprise, Texas with several accommodation types ranging from standard camping to more comfortable structures. The park sits in East Texas pine country, about 30 miles from Mount Enterprise, and features a power plant that creates a constant low hum that most visitors adjust to quickly. The park's screened shelters and island primitive camping sites provide alternative options for those seeking unique glamping experiences near Mount Enterprise.
What to do
Primitive island camping: Martin Creek Lake State Park features an isolated primitive camping area on an island that requires preparation. "My wife and I did our first camp at Martin Creek Lake state park the other week. 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 Aaron K.
Explore hiking trails: Martin Creek Lake State Park offers multiple hiking trails through tall pine forests. "I hiked all three trails, which were easy to follow but not that well marked where they crossed. There are some unbelievably tall Loblolly Pines back on the trails - simply amazing!" shares Lori C.
Fishing opportunities: Lake fishing is popular at several campgrounds in the area. "We caught 7 catfish using normal nightcrawlers as bait. Fried them up for lunch the next day and they tasted like heaven!" reports one camper about their experience at Martin Creek.
Train watching: The Rusk Depot Campground offers a unique opportunity to watch vintage trains. "The texas state RR train engine car came through one time in the afternoon to turn around to pull the train back to palestine...that's pretty unique and a cool thing at a campsite," notes Lisa P.
What campers like
Quiet environment: Many luxury glamping locations near Mount Enterprise provide peaceful settings. "This campground really has no outside noise from anywhere. It is wonderfully quiet. The office and other working staff are very friendly and informative about things to do in the area," reports Ty A. about Rusk KOA.
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention the well-maintained facilities at glamping sites. "The sites were clean, well kept. The bathrooms were also clean (Always a good thing to have!) Lots of fishing boats, and plenty of room for parking for the day," notes Shane H. about Martin Creek Lake State Park.
Lake views: The Boulders at Lake Tyler offers premium glamping with water vistas. "Although the sites were close together, they all had concrete pads, full hookups, were level, and had picnic tables. Great view of Lake Tyler. Also very clean," shares Kathy H.
Helpful staff: The service at many glamping sites near Mount Enterprise stands out. "The staff is very friendly and accommodating. I will return and will recommend to friends," says Sheila C. about The Boulders at Lake Tyler.
What you should know
Fire ant presence: Be prepared for insects at certain parks. "They list this ant as an issue on their website I do believe," mentions one reviewer about Martin Creek Lake, while another adds, "My 'beware' is that there is an abundance of Poison Ivy around. So if you are bothered by that be very careful."
Power plant noise: Martin Creek Lake State Park has a nearby power facility. "There's a power plant over there. Didn't know that when I booked my site. The noise from the power station droned constantly at a low hum but was easy to tune out," reports Shane H.
Booking considerations: Some campgrounds lack reservation systems. "After making reservations over the phone 163 days prior to arriving and prepaying the entire amount, we were told at check-in there was no record of our reservation," notes one camper about Rusk Depot Campground.
Site selection: Not all sites are created equal. "We had number #17 and it 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.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Rusk KOA offers family-friendly amenities. "Sites are level pull-through sites and most have a clear view of the playground, which gives the kids a sense of freedom," mentions Lisa P.
Swimming options: Several parks offer water recreation for children. "Took the grandson and we had a blast. Lots of fishing and swimming. Wasn't too impressed with trails," shares Angie H. about her experience at Martin Creek Lake State Park.
Activity considerations: Some parks offer more structured activities than others. "Pretty cool play ground, trails to explore, covered picnic tables in the swim area, nice fishing piers. A really cool SP," says Becca H.
Weekend events: Seasonal activities can enhance family glamping experiences. "Have been camping here in the summers and both Easter & Halloween weekends and they do easter egg/candy hunts and have other events for the kids/kids at heart," explains Lisa P.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many RV sites near Mount Enterprise require minimal adjustment. "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.
Gate access: Some parks have security features to note. "Gate is locked at night so keep the email with the code if you want in late or out early," advises Fabein D.
Road conditions: Shirley Creek Marina & Campground offers accessible RV sites. "It's very easy to find excellent access to hookups for your RV or Travel trailer," notes David R.
Hookup considerations: Not all sites offer full connections. "The only reason I didn't give it five stars is the price and not having sewer. There are a lot of cute amenities but everything costs extra. Beautiful grounds and friendly workers. Nice waterfront concrete sites," explains Natalie S.
