Alison P.
Guide
GuideJellystone Park™ Tyler
Camping at site 266 - it’s a great spot! Only complaint is there is no grate for the fire pit.
Glamping near Athens, TX
5 campgrounds with availability this weekend
Search destinations
Add dates
Tyler State Park Campground and Mill Creek Ranch RV & Cottage Resort house upscale glamping accommodations within driving distance of Athens, Texas. Tyler State Park features climate-controlled limited-use cabins with queen beds, mini-refrigerators, and microwaves, while Mill Creek Ranch offers luxury cottages and yurts with full amenities. One guest shared, "It being August in Texas, we rented a limited use cabin with air conditioning. It also has a mini frig and a microwave inside. The frig was super cold, and the AC worked well." The Boulders at Lake Tyler provides waterfront glamping yurts with concrete sites and picnic tables. Jellystone Park Tyler features premium glamping cabins in a family-friendly setting with market access and trash service. Most luxury accommodations include electricity, water hookups, and fire pits with cooking grates, offering comfort beyond traditional camping.
Hiking trails of varying difficulty levels surround the glamping sites, with Tyler State Park offering both hiking-only paths and multi-use trails for bikes and horses. Water recreation opportunities abound at the small lake in Tyler State Park where canoe, kayak, paddle board, and boat rentals are available with life vests included. According to a camper, "The park has a very small lake with canoe, kayak, paddle board, row boat, and paddle boat rentals. Life vests are provided with rental." The Boulders at Lake Tyler provides waterfront views with kayak and pontoon boat rentals, fishing barges, and boat docks. Most glamping locations maintain dark sky conditions ideal for stargazing, though some sites experience minimal highway noise. Ranger-led programs enhance the glamping experience at Tyler State Park, while seasonal events like Easter egg hunts and Halloween activities occur at other locations throughout the year.
Best Glamping Campgrounds near Athens (22)
1. Coal Mine Ranch RV Park
"The owners and staff are super friendly. The water park kept my kids happy the entire weekend. Only drawback was not open past 5 pm but I understand why (they do private parties)."
"Full hookups, bath house, and a very nice little water park. They sell affordable food at the water area, though you’re not allowed to bring food in the water area. Super friendly owners."
Check Availabilityfrom $15 - $74 / night
2. Leisure Time Properties @ LTP Ranch
"We're excited to have this campground on the Dyrt and ready for you to book, check them out and make sure to leave a review!"
Check Availabilityfrom $179 - $349 / night
3. Tyler State Park Campground
"It being August in Texas, we rented a limited use cabin with air conditioning. It also has a mini frig and a microwave inside."
"PROS Texas State Park Pass discount saving $49
Reserved 151 days prior to arriving
Not charged a fee to make my own on-line reservation
Big Pine site #308 very shady site
Extra wide asphalt parking"
1 Site AvailableAvailable this weekend
from $18 - $60 / night
4. Big Tex Campground
"The sites are all large and shaded with a picnic table and a fire pit. Our site was also a full hookup site as was the site of our friends that also came with us."
"We're so excited to welcome this new listing to our platform. Check them out and come back here to leave them some love!"
Check Availabilityfrom $55 - $58 / night
5. Mill Creek Ranch RV & Cottage Resort
"Great little street taco stand in walking distance great breakfast tacos. Cons- check in staff was not wearing mask. Some of the gravel and black top roads need resurfacing."
"This resort is located close to the Canton First Monday Trades day! Very nice clean resort! They have games, fishing, swimming, hiking!"
6. Oak Cove Marina
"If you arrive late, they can hold your credit card when you book over the phone, and you can pay in the morning. Friendly staff, and incredible lake."
"Huge.huge lake...lots of boats.people friendly.children happy..camping.lodging..fishing..realestate open..wonderful parks..resturaunts.hotels.motels..very nice.."
7. A-OK South RV Park
"We loved waking up to see a pasture full of cows behind us. The manager was very polite. I would stay here again."
8. Jellystone Park™ Tyler
"Only complaint is there is no grate for the fire pit."
"rides, gem stone mining, laser tag, outdoor movies, crafts, mini golf, basketball, volleyball, a kangaroo jump bounce pillow (their favorite thing), a playground and lots of activities within a brief drive"
9. The Boulders at Lake Tyler
"Concrete sites made setup and leveling super easy. The staff was extremely friendly and helpful - when we mentioned it was our first trip, they guided us into our site and gave us tips on setup."
"Family and pet friendly. The bathrooms are nice. And the bait shop has everything you forgot at home. 10/10!!"
3 Sites AvailableAvailable this weekend
from $55 - $195 / night
10. Lake Holbrook Park - South
"I wouldn’t say it’s secluded, but it’s quiet and there is enough space per site to pitch a tent and enjoy your time. I was the only person camping here when I went in January."
"Loved being 15 ft from the water's edge. Some train and traffic noise. "
Drive Time
- 35 min from Tyler, TX
- 1 hr 7 min from Dallas, TX
- 1 hr 11 min from Longview, TX
- 1 hr 39 min from Waco, TX
Recent Glamping Photos near Athens, TX
26 Photos of 22 Athens Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Glamping Reviews near Athens, TX
143 Reviews of 22 Athens Campgrounds
- TTasha A.
ScoutJellystone 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.
Arnold S.ScoutThousand Trails Lake Tawakoni
The good then some not so good
Mid-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
Bryan S.GuideTyler State Park Campground
Beautiful views.
Stayed overnight and it was a great stay. Staff were friendly and the views were amazing.
Tom B.GuideLake Holbrook Park - South
Not maintained much, no amenities. Surrounded by a nice lake.
I stayed 12 days, running back and forth to visit friends in Dallas. 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. There's a nice little town just a few miles away with a Walmart etc. (Mineola TX)
- Tom B.Guide
Lake Holbrook Park - South
Not maintained much, no amenities. Nice, with a lake all around you.
I stayed for 12 days, running back and forth to visit folks in Dallas. Loved being 15 ft from the water's edge. Some train and traffic noise. Fair amount of trash around, but it's a free, relaxing place to camp, No hassles, close to a nice little town with a Walmart (Mineola TX).
- RReagan K.Scout
Highview Park
Gates close at 10pm
If you’re looking for a late night stop, this isn’t it. Gates lock at 10 pm. We couldn’t get in.
- Jason D.Guide
Tyler State Park Campground
Pleasant one night stay
Easy late arrival procedure. Walked the 1 mile whispering pines trail with ease. Our site was next to bathrooms/showers. They could be updated and use a good cleaning.
- eelizabeth L.Guide
Tyler State Park Campground
Pretty park
Tyler State Park is a pretty park. There are a number of hiking trails, but we were only there overnight. The lake and beach look lovely. Most of the camp sites look nice with water and electric. The bath house is clean with hot showers, but could use some paint and TLC. Sites 13, 14, and 15 were very nice especially if tent camping.
Guide to Athens
Athens, Texas offers diverse camping options within driving distance of larger cities. Located in East Texas piney woods at approximately 440 feet elevation, the region features warm summers with temperatures frequently exceeding 90°F and mild winters. Several parks near Athens provide yurt accommodations and glamping experiences alongside traditional camping, with most sites requiring reservations during peak summer months.
What to do
Fishing and boating access: The Boulders at Lake Tyler provides excellent waterfront recreation with rental options. "They have a store that sells fishing license and bait. They also have a fishing barge and kayaks and boats for rent," notes one camper. Another mentions, "They offer boat ramp and docks and a fishing barge."
Hiking and mountain biking: Tyler State Park Campground features extensive trail networks suitable for different skill levels. A visitor comments, "The trails are not the greatest but it was easy enough for my toddler." Another camper describes it as having "Lots of hiking/mountain bike trails."
Swimming and water play: Several parks offer water recreation beyond what's mentioned in the existing description. "The park has a very nice little water park. They set up a movie night on the projector," a visitor at Coal Mine Ranch RV Park shares. Another camper adds, "The water area made it all worth it for us and our toddler! He had a BLAST."
What campers like
Shaded campsites: Many visitors appreciate the tree cover during hot Texas summers. "Sites are semi level, full hookup, some shade!" notes a camper at Tyler State Park. Another visitor describes it as "Nestled in the piney woods."
Clean facilities: Campground cleanliness ranks high among visitor priorities. "CLEAN BATHROOMS AND SHOWERS. Overall an amazing experience," reports a camper at Coal Mine Ranch. At Mill Creek Ranch RV & Cottage Resort, visitors note "Very clear grounds and bathrooms" and "This place was beautiful and so serene. Bathhouse is very clean."
Level sites: RVers particularly appreciate well-maintained camping pads. "All concrete pads and level," reports a camper at Bluebonnet Ridge. Another visitor at The Boulders states, "Concrete sites made setup and leveling super easy," adding that "The waterfront views were beautiful and the amenities were wonderful."
What you should know
Reservation challenges: Popular parks fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. "Hard to get reservations because it is so popular! If you get reservations it's kinda like winning the lottery," shares a Tyler State Park camper.
Tent restrictions: Not all parks accommodate tent camping, particularly on weekends. A visitor to Oak Cove Marina reports, "We drove all over the park and could not find a designated area for tents. He asked when we wanted to stay and we gave him the dates. He then informed us they do not allow tents during the weekend."
Highway noise: Some campgrounds experience road noise from nearby highways. At Bluebonnet Ridge, a camper notes, "You're really close to I-20, you will hear the road noise. Only trucks are loud. (We did hear a blowout, scared me to death!)" Another review simply states, "LOUD, the highway is right here."
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Families with children have multiple water activity choices. "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," shares a Tyler State Park visitor.
Kid-friendly attractions: Jellystone Park Tyler offers numerous family activities beyond standard camping. "The bouncy pillow is always a fan favorite, and we spent just as much time there as we did in the water," reports one camper. Another shares, "Kids loved every minute of our stay! Had plenty of things to keep them busy!"
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature playground equipment for children. "The playground is one of the best I've seen at the state parks we've been to!" notes a Tyler State Park visitor. Another camper at Mill Creek Ranch mentions, "My kids had fun fishing and playing on the playground."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose your site carefully based on specific needs. A visitor to The Boulders advises, "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."
Setup assistance: First-time RVers might find staff help valuable. "When we mentioned it was our first trip, they guided us into our site and gave us tips on setup," reports a camper at The Boulders, where concrete pads make leveling easier for beginners trying yurt camping near Athens, Texas.
Hookup availability: Most parks offer full hookups, but specifications vary. "30&50 amp hookups, Water hookup, Dump site only ($15 for honey wagon)," notes a camper at The Boulders, while Mill Creek Ranch offers "All concrete pads, full hookups and level."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular glamping
campsite near Athens, TX?
Which is the most popular glamping campsite near Athens, TX?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular glamping campground near Athens, TX is Coal Mine Ranch RV Park with a 3.3-star rating from 3 reviews.
What is the best site to find
glamping camping near
Athens, TX?
What is the best site to find glamping camping near Athens, TX?
TheDyrt.com has all 22 glamping camping locations near Athens, TX, with real photos and reviews from campers.
Keep Exploring