Campsites near Powderly, Texas cluster around Pat Mayse Lake, a 5,993-acre reservoir with 62 miles of shoreline maintained by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The lake sits at approximately 460 feet elevation with summer water temperatures reaching 80-85°F. Most established camping spots in this North Texas region offer electrical hookups with amperage varying between locations, though primitive camping options exist for those seeking a more basic experience.
What to do
Kayaking on calm waters: Pat Mayse Lake provides excellent flat-water paddling opportunities with limited boat traffic. At Pat Mayse Sanders Cove Recreations area, one visitor noted, "This lake doesn't have a marina so there is not too much boat traffic. There are boat ramps and docks. I plan on taking my kayak next time. It looks great for kayaking."
Geocaching adventures: The areas around Sanders Cove offer multiple geocaching opportunities for tech-savvy treasure hunters. A camper mentioned their "Family fun weekend! Boating, grilling, yard games, geocaching and more!" making it an ideal activity for groups looking to combine technology with outdoor exploration.
Fishing tournaments: Serious anglers visit COE Pat Mayse Lake Pat Mayse West Campground for organized fishing competitions. One reviewer highlighted the "Uncle Jesse Big Bass Classic Fishing Tournament, started by Denver Pyle who played Uncle Jesse on The Dukes of Hazzard fame, Denvers wife continues to hose this tournement in Denvers name today."
Horseback riding trails: Just 20 miles northeast in Oklahoma, the Hugo Lake area offers equestrian opportunities. A visitor to Hugo Lake noted, "We also saw people horseback riding on the trails. There honestly was so much stuff do it!"
What campers like
Spacious sites with shade: Many campers appreciate the generous spacing and mature tree cover at Pat Mayse Lake. A camper at Sanders Cove described, "The campsites are spacious. Lots of shade trees," providing natural cooling during hot Texas summers.
Clean facilities: COE Pat Mayse Lake Pat Mayse East has received recognition for facility maintenance. One visitor specifically called out a camp host: "The Camp host Kathie has put so much appreciated work into improving this place! Looks great!!"
Group camping areas: Sanders Cove offers dedicated spaces for family reunions or group outings. A reviewer pointed out, "B loop has a nice group camp section that is set back just off the main B loop, which would be great for families."
Individual shower facilities: For campers who prefer private bathing spaces, Virgil Point offers "access to a shower house with clean individual shower toilet combos" according to one reviewer who stayed for two weeks.
What you should know
Seasonal flooding impacts: Some campsites show evidence of previous high water events. At Pat Mayse West, a visitor observed "some obvious flood damage to some of the sites near the water with a few not useable at all."
Water access inconsistency: Water hookup locations vary significantly throughout Pat Mayse West. A camper noted, "Water access is sometimes very far from the campsite and sometimes right on each site there is no consistency, so an extra hose is advisable."
Site leveling challenges: Many campsites require preparation for proper setup. One visitor to Pat Mayse West mentioned, "The spot was unleveled but that's no big deal if you have leveling blocks."
Insect awareness: Some camping areas have active ant populations. A camper at Pat Mayse East shared, "While exploring I was attacked by ants so heads up on that."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: When camping with children, consider Raymond Gary State Park Campground where "There is a pretty big playground and a big picnic pavilion too" according to one reviewer who visited with family.
Water activities for kids: Pat Mayse Sanders Cove provides excellent swimming options. A family noted their experience: "Our family had such an amazing time tent camping on the water!"
Short hiking trails: Sanders Cove offers beginner-friendly walking paths suitable for children. A frequent visitor mentioned, "The hiking trails are great!" making it appropriate for younger explorers with limited stamina.
Cabin options for non-tent families: For families not equipped for tent camping, Hugo Lake Park offers affordable cabins. A visitor noted, "We rented a resort cabin for a night in May of 2020. We opted for one of their 16 'resort' cabins. These cabins have 2 bedrooms, a full bathroom and kitchen and a nice porch overlooking the lake."
Tips from RVers
Loop selection matters: Different camping loops offer varying experiences for RVers. At Pat Mayse West, "The sites run the spectrum from packed close together to being well spread out depending on the area and loop camped in."
Extra water hose recommended: Due to inconsistent water spigot placement, RVers should bring additional hose length. As mentioned by a Pat Mayse West camper, "Water access is sometimes very far from the campsite... an extra hose is advisable."
Concrete pad availability: For easier leveling, seek out campgrounds with paved sites. A Virgil Point visitor stayed in "C07 for two weeks" and appreciated the "concrete pads covered table, grill and fire pit."
Verizon service quality: For remote workers or those needing connectivity, Raymond Gary State Park offers reliable cell service. A camper confirmed, "Friendly staff, easy to access, not far off main road. My Verizon phone system works well and my Verizon hotspot."
