Pat Mayse Lake offers camping options beyond the main RV campgrounds, with several established parks within a 30-mile radius. The lake spans approximately 5,993 acres with 62 miles of shoreline near Paris, Texas. Fall and spring provide moderate temperatures between 60-75°F, creating optimal camping conditions when water levels remain consistent.
What to do
Hiking trails: Hidden Grove RV Resort features two different walking paths including a 3-mile trail around the property. "This place is awesome, quiet, they have two different trails to walk on. The RV spaces are further apart than your average RV park," notes General M., who appreciated the peaceful setting at Hidden Grove RV Resort.
Fishing access: Bois D'Ark RV Park provides convenient access to multiple fishing destinations. "Bonham lake is about 2 miles away and the new Texas lake Bois d'ark is about 5 miles away. The lake should be open by March of 2022," shares Tammie L. from her stay at Bois D'Ark RV Park.
Water recreation: Within driving distance, McGee Creek State Park offers additional water activities. "McGee Creek is a beautiful state park with boating, fishing, hiking, etc. Downtown Atoka is an up and coming little town that has been revitalized," explains Jimmy K., describing options near Lane RV Park.
What campers like
Spacious sites: RV spaces at many parks provide adequate separation between campers. "You can tell this is a good place to stay as soon as you pull in the drive. Great roads, very large sites, your choice pull in paved or gravel, back in or lake side. All spots have a paved patio," reports Debbie M. about Shady Oaks RV Resort.
Accessible amenities: Many parks offer convenient services within walking distance. "Enjoyed our stay at Shady Oaks! Friendly staff, a playground for the kids, right across the highway from the lake, and a family friendly bar and grill located right at the campground," explains Rodney T.
Pool facilities: Some RV parks include swimming pools for campers. "The park is easy to get in and out of with nice sites and very nice pool. Hiking trails we did not have time to explore but maybe next time," mentions Veronica R. about her stay at Hidden Grove RV Resort.
What you should know
Road noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience traffic sound due to proximity to highways. "Great location to stay if you are visiting the area of Bonham Tx or just passing thru for the night. Lot of road noise. Also be sure to have a long sewer hose," warns Tammie L. from Bois D'Ark RV Park.
Variable site quality: Site conditions vary significantly between campgrounds and even within the same park. "Very very basic park. Sites are barely what you would call improved, all grass, maybe some gravel underneath. Fairly level. At least 8 of the 15 sites have permanent residents," reports Lenny M. about Broken Bow Inn & RV Park.
Limited shade coverage: Many RV sites lack substantial tree coverage. "There's no tree coverage really so the spots are pretty open but they have a fair amount of spacing in between each spot for some privacy," notes Tris W. about the layout at Hidden Grove.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Select campgrounds include dedicated play areas for children. "Enjoyed our stay at Shady Oaks! Friendly staff, a playground for the kids, right across the highway from the lake," mentions Rodney T.
Nearby provisions: Grocery stores and supply points often exist near camping areas. "It's located in town, so there is quick and easy access to provisions if you need anything," explains Gari-Ann L. about Antlers RV Park, noting its convenience for families needing supplies.
Room for outdoor activities: Some sites provide adequate space behind RV pads for family games and gatherings. "Nice level lots with plenty of room behind to set up tables and games. Clean. Highway noise is a little loud but it does die down at night so no problem sleeping," shares Brenda A. from her experience at Creekside RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Be prepared with leveling equipment at many area campgrounds. "Sites are barely what you would call improved, all grass, maybe some gravel underneath. Fairly level," notes Lenny M.
Sewer hose length: Standard sewer hoses may not reach connections at some sites. "Also be sure to have a long sewer hose," advises Tammie L. about setup requirements at Bois D'Ark RV Park.
Pull-through availability: Limited pull-through sites exist at some parks. "Only one pull through with W/E only. Nothing but a small casino and subway within walking distance," mentions Lenny M. about the options at Broken Bow Inn & RV Park.