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."
