M
Madison T.
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TravelerThomas Lake Park
Pretty little area. Could fit any size camper!
Tent Camping near Gilmer, TX
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Gilmer, Texas offers several tent camping options throughout the surrounding area, with Lake Winnsboro Park providing dispersed tent sites approximately 25 miles west of town. Primitive tent campsites can be found at Fish Hawke Point at Lake Hawkins, where campers can set up directly along the shoreline. Lake of the Pines, located within 20 miles of Gilmer, provides established tent sites with more amenities like showers and toilets, making it suitable for campers seeking a balance between primitive camping and basic facilities.
Most tent sites in the Gilmer area are situated on grassy or pine-needle covered ground, providing natural padding for tent setup. Drive-in access is available at several locations including Lake Winnsboro Park and Lake of the Pines, while Harpoon Larry's Camping and the Mineola Nature Preserve sites require hiking in to reach the campsites. Facilities vary significantly - Lake of the Pines provides showers and toilets, while Thomas Lake Park features only picnic tables with no restroom facilities. Tent campers should note that fires are permitted at most sites but firewood availability is limited, so bringing your own supply is advisable.
The pine forests surrounding Gilmer create a distinctive camping experience with ample shade during summer months. Sites at Lake of the Pines benefit from dense tree cover that creates a secluded atmosphere, though this can reduce air circulation during hot weather. Lake Winnsboro Park offers waterfront tent sites with open views across the lake, providing both scenic vistas and cooling breezes. For more seclusion, Harpoon Larry's Camping features a clearing surrounded by pines that accommodates multiple tents while maintaining privacy from other campers. A visitor commented that "This point is first come first serve, find any spot you like. It's a great spot for kayaking and other water sports, or just relaxing in the water."
Best Tent Campgrounds near Gilmer (13)
1. Lake Of The Pines
"Heavy tree cover means little air movement, even right on the water. Little popularity from the locals means this place is quiet and serene."
2. Fish Hawke Point at Lake Hawkins
"Primitive camping. Restrooms have recently been torn down and are going to be rebuilt. It's a great spot for Kayaking and other water sports, or just relaxing in the water."
3. Harpoon Larry's Camping
"We didn't trust our camper Prius to make it through a certain dip in the trail, so we found a nice level spot in the woods just off the trail."
from $44 - $150 / night
4. Lake Quitman West Dam
"Several car / tent combos, class B rigs, and vans. Was serenaded by cows. There are porta poties and trash barrels around the campsite. Beautiful views of the water. Couldn't hear nearby road."
"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!"
5. Lake Winnsboro Park
6. Greer Hill - Mineola Nature Preserve Campground C
"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
7. Johnson Creek Marina
8. Hurricane Creek
9. Thomas Lake Park
"We got the best sleep we’ve ever had camping with the soft grass and our sleeping pad. Watch out for mud spots in the grass."
"Very quiet area with plenty of space to set up camp. Grass was freshly mowed when I showed up. Campground overlooks a good sized lake, as well as has a boat ramp. Great stay"
10. Peacock Pond - Mineola Nature Preserve Campground D
Drive Time
- 22 min from Longview, TX
- 40 min from Tyler, TX
- 1 hr 10 min from Shreveport, LA
- 1 hr 13 min from Texarkana, TX
Recent Tent Camping Photos near Gilmer, TX
2 Photos of 13 Gilmer Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Tent Camping Reviews near Gilmer, TX
329 Reviews of 13 Gilmer Campgrounds
Alison P.
GuideJellystone Park™ Tyler
Camping at site 266 - it’s a great spot! Only complaint is there is no grate for the fire pit.
- RRobert C.
ScoutThomas Lake Park
Beautiful park, plenty of space, say to find, right on part of the lake.
- TTasha A.Scout
Jellystone Park™ Tyler
Horrible experience
JELLYSTONE PARK TYLER, TEXAS — 1 STAR. ABSOLUTELY DISGUSTED.
We paid for a family vacation October 16–18. Instead, we spent our time dealing with concerning cabin conditions, repeatedly relocating, and trying to get management to take us seriously.
Cabin 122 smelled musty, had an unusually soft bathroom floor, and showed visible discoloration and growth that concerned us. I photographed it.
We were moved repeatedly. No meaningful assistance was offered. Our children lost vacation time because we were busy packing and unpacking.
AND LET ME MAKE SOMETHING PERFECTLY CLEAR:
NOTHING WE RECEIVED WAS PROACTIVELY OFFERED TO MAKE OUR DISRUPTED VACATION RIGHT.
Build-A-Bear? WE requested it in exchange for a missed hayride.
Linens refund? WE requested it because of the bedding condition.
Management has referenced these things as though they somehow made up for everything else.
They did not. Stop presenting things we had to ask for as generosity.
Then there's manager Tom.
During one interaction, he demanded that I look at him while he spoke to me. I found his manner condescending and disrespectful.
He also chose to approach me to apologize while I was alone in my swimsuit at the pool, despite having other opportunities to speak with me. I was uncomfortable with that interaction.
I repeatedly raised a Build-A-Bear request without meaningful acknowledgment. When a man in our group repeated the same request, Tom immediately agreed.
I cannot speak to his intentions, but I should not have to rely on a man repeating my request to feel heard.
Women, based on my experience, I would personally avoid dealing with Tom.
Multiple members of our group also understood Tom to say that accepting a refund meant we had 30 minutes to leave the property. Management disputes that account. I stand by my recollection.
After filing a formal complaint, providing photographs, and following up, I contacted Northgate Resorts because I wanted someone ABOVE Tyler management to review our experience.
Instead, I spoke with Kyle Mohler on October 27.
He disputed my concerns and denied a refund.
THEN HE TOLD ME THEY INTEND TO USE OUR EXPERIENCE TO IMPROVE HOW EMPLOYEES HANDLE GUEST RELOCATIONS.
Excuse me?
Our experience is significant enough to warrant changing procedures, but apparently not significant enough to warrant additional compensation for the family who endured it?
When I asked for contact information for someone above him, Kyle refused, stating he didn't need to or have to provide it.
I CONTACTED CORPORATE TO GET ABOVE RESORT MANAGEMENT, NOT TO BE SENT RIGHT BACK TO IT.
I am disgusted with the way this vacation and the subsequent complaint have been handled.
This is only a summary. My original complaint contains 19 sections, and I have photographs and correspondence. I am willing to share a redacted copy privately with anyone interested.
ONE STAR. I WOULD NOT RECOMMEND JELLYSTONE PARK TYLER. OUR FAMILY DESERVED BETTER.
- DDominic B.Traveler
Thomas Lake Park
Nice place to dispersed camp
Nice mowed area on river/lake. Bumpy dirt road to arrive. Several locals in and out for recreation.
Amanda J.TravelerMartin Creek Lake State Park Campground
Great Stop
We have stayed here on multiple cross country trips and it's always been great for a quiet spot! It's well shaded and our ConnecTen Internet worked great here. Nice walking and very chill atmosphere with clean bath houses.
- bbob J.Guide
Brushy Creek
All quiet here in the Fall
Only 3 campers in the whole area on a Wednesday night. Beautiful spot on the lake.
Gavin T.ScoutCamp Quapaw
Camp isn’t even
The camp isn’t even open drove 200+ miles for nothing DO NOT WASTE YOUR MONEY
- CCarlos M.Traveler
Caddo Lake State Park Campground
Great Stay
Had a nice stay, peaceful, not crowded. Electricity hookup was further than I expected so had to buy 3 additional 20 foot extension cords (total of 4). Luckily there is a family dollar a mile or two away. Other than that no issues.
Guide to Gilmer
Tent camping near Gilmer, Texas offers a serene escape into nature, with a variety of campgrounds that cater to outdoor enthusiasts looking for a peaceful retreat.
Tent campers appreciate these amenities
- At Lake Of The Pines, campers can enjoy features like picnic tables, showers, and water hookups, making for a comfortable stay.
- Fish Hawke Point at Lake Hawkins provides primitive camping with access to restrooms and a beautiful setting for kayaking and water sports.
- For those seeking a more rustic experience, Harpoon Larry's Camping offers a secluded area surrounded by pines, perfect for families and groups.
Tent campers like these nearby activities
- Enjoy kayaking and fishing at Fish Hawke Point at Lake Hawkins, a great spot for water sports and relaxation.
- Explore the natural beauty and wildlife at Greer Hill - Mineola Nature Preserve Campground C, where hiking, biking, and horseback riding are popular activities.
- Experience the tranquility of Lake Winnsboro Park, known for its clean facilities and peaceful atmosphere, ideal for a quiet getaway.
Tips for tent camping near Gilmer
- Be prepared for limited air circulation in heavily wooded areas like Lake Of The Pines; bringing a fan can enhance your comfort during hot weather.
- If you're heading to Harpoon Larry's Camping, a high-clearance vehicle is recommended to navigate the trails leading to the best camping spots.
- Keep an eye on your little ones at Lake Of The Pines, as wildlife, including alligators, can be present in the area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent
campsite near Gilmer, TX?
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Gilmer, TX?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Gilmer, TX is Lake Of The Pines with a 4.3-star rating from 4 reviews.
What is the best site to find
tent camping near
Gilmer, TX?
What is the best site to find tent camping near Gilmer, TX?
TheDyrt.com has all 13 tent camping locations near Gilmer, TX, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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