Mount Vernon camping sites offer a mix of lake-oriented and primitive options. The area sits at approximately 400 feet above sea level within the Cypress Basin watershed, providing year-round accessibility with moderate temperatures. Winter lows rarely drop below 30°F, making this East Texas location suitable for camping even during cooler months.
What to do
Kayaking at Lake Bob Sandlin: Launch from designated areas and explore the winding waterways. At Lake Bob Sandlin State Park, one visitor noted, "Kayak launch isn't easy to get to but they have provided a slide for yaks to get from the parking area to/from the launch. Once you're there though its like you're transported somewhere else and you weave your way through a winding canal to reach the lake."
Hiking: Explore the gentle trails around lake areas for wildlife viewing. The trail system at Lake Bob Sandlin offers 4.5 miles of relatively easy paths. A camper observed, "4.5 total miles of trails and none of it difficult. You can't take a baby stroller because of a few branches, it's all easy hiking."
Winter camping: Take advantage of mild winter conditions for a less crowded experience. A reviewer at Walleye Park shared, "We were the only ones crazy enough to go in December but it was great! Beautiful views and great fishing and were able to cook out and go geocaching."
What campers like
Waterfront access: Nearly every site at some campgrounds offers direct lake views or shore access. At Walleye Park, a visitor explained, "This is a beautiful park and every campsite is lakefront. 30/50amp, water and tent sites. They do have a dump station. They also have a large pavilion that can be rented that have picnic tables."
Wildlife encounters: Many campgrounds offer opportunities for wildlife viewing. At The Bluffs RV Park, campers report good proximity to nature: "We came in town for a fishing tournament and stayed at this small campground with a lot of cute amenities! Close to boat ramp, 5 min walk to the lake, full hookups, good water pressure, fire pits, gravel sites."
Free camping options: Some locations offer no-cost camping with basic amenities. According to one camper at Public Ramp 1, "What a beautiful place! There are dispersed sites throughout the recreation area with clearly marked areas where no camping is allowed. There are restrooms and water available, as well as dumpsters."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds have specific booking rules. At Walleye Park, a camper noted: "Their reservation system leaves a lot to be desired. You must book 3 days minimum which leaves a lot of single day gaps that cannot be reserved online. Reservations are made through FCWD.com."
Site privacy varies: Some campsites offer more seclusion than others. One visitor commented about Walleye Park: "No privacy from any other campsite. Site picnic table anchored so not moveable."
Registration procedures: Free camping areas still require check-in. At Public Ramp 1, a visitor explained, "After a while, the on-site police will come by to check you in (name, driver's license, etc) but ours was very friendly. Must be 21 to stay, and not just in your car."
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Look for campgrounds with dedicated swimming areas. At Big Al's Barefoot Bay, one family noted: "Sandy spots to swim from at various entry points. Friendly people and several kids that run around playing, making friends."
Group facilities: Some parks cater specifically to family gatherings. At Twin Oaks Group Park, a visitor shared: "We do our family reunion camping trip twice a year here. It is great they have everything you need. Huge grill, covered pavilion, large group fire pit. Every camp site faces the center so you see the whole area."
Kid-friendly fishing: Multiple locations provide easy fishing access for children. A camper at Twin Oaks mentioned: "Its right on Lake Cypress so you can dock your boat at the pier and the catfish can be caught by kiddos."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven sites. At Big Al's Barefoot Bay, a reviewer mentioned: "Only 4 stars because the bathrooms are dated and sites aren't concrete."
Water pressure concerns: Check with management about utilities before booking. One RVer at Walleye Park reported: "Site 69 will take a 45' motor coach. We have camped several times here but this time the water pressure was a joke. Very few campers. We had to use onboard water pump for everything."
Budget options: Several campgrounds offer extended-stay discounts. At Ramblin Fever RV Park, a visitor shared: "We recently bought property near Mt Pleasant and came to work on it. Stayed for a week for $150. 30/50 amp hook ups, sewer and water. Laundry $2 a load."
