Camping near Tatum, Texas offers experiences in the Piney Woods ecoregion where average annual rainfall reaches 46 inches, creating lush forest environments. The elevation ranges from 300-400 feet above sea level, resulting in rolling terrain with small creeks and streams throughout campgrounds. Summer nighttime temperatures typically remain above 70°F, requiring campers to plan for warm sleeping conditions.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Martin Creek Lake State Park, the warmer water from the nearby power plant creates excellent year-round fishing conditions. "We had a blast. Lots of fishing and swimming," notes a visitor who brought their grandson to enjoy the lake.
Island camping adventure: Try primitive camping on the island at Martin Creek Lake State Park for a more secluded experience. "We highly recommend their primitive camping option on the island. Remember to bring your wagon, the parking lot is a good 70 yards to the camp sites," advises a camper who enjoyed this unique option.
Paddle the bayou: Caddo Lake State Park offers canoe rentals for exploring the unique cypress swamps. "Kayaking this area was BEAUTIFUL and just unforgettable from our trip to this part of the state. You get to camp among the trees and spanish moss and water," shares one visitor who found the experience memorable despite the bugs.
Sunset views: For campers seeking free lakefront sites, Rosie Jones Park provides excellent sunset opportunities. "Free spot with beautiful Lake views. Perfect spot to watch the sunset/rise," reports a camper, though they caution about "bumpy road, hard to navigate at night."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Carthage RV Campground receives consistent praise for maintenance standards. "The park is good. Sites are mostly concrete and level, some gravel. Bathrooms and laundry clean," notes a recent visitor, highlighting the practical benefits of well-maintained facilities.
Screened shelters: The screened shelters at Martin Creek Lake State Park provide protection from insects while enjoying the outdoors. "They seem cob-webby from the outside but once inside, the concrete floor is smoother up the edges of the walls about 2.5', reducing entry of insects via cracks in the joints of floor and wall," explains a camper who appreciated the shelter's design and cleanliness.
Quiet atmosphere: Laguna Vista RV Park offers a peaceful setting away from highway noise. "We pulled in late and stayed one night. The owner greeted us and the welcome was genuine and warm. While the site had many long term residence...hidden gem for a quick one night stay!" shares one traveler who appreciated the tranquility despite the park's population of permanent residents.
Wildlife viewing: The bayou environment at Caddo Lake State Park creates unique wildlife spotting opportunities. "If you're a big boater, kayaker, or fisher, maybe you won't mind because it's the best place to do those things," mentions a visitor who found the road noise challenging but acknowledged the park's exceptional water recreation opportunities.
What you should know
Insect preparation: Mosquitoes and ants are common challenges when camping near Tatum. At Caddo Lake State Park, one visitor notes: "The bugs are awful, the gators are a little scary, but that's the price you pay for the beauty."
Power plant noise: The electricity generating facility near Martin Creek Lake creates a constant background sound. "The noise from the power station droned constantly at a low hum but was easy to tune out," explains a camper who stayed in a travel trailer.
Poison ivy awareness: Fernbrook RV Park offers clean sites with thick grass, but wilderness areas throughout the region contain poison ivy. One Martin Creek Lake visitor warns: "There is an abundance of Poison Ivy around. So if you are bothered by that be very careful."
Weather preparation: Thunderstorms can develop quickly in East Texas, requiring secure tent setups. "We got caught in a pop-up shower with the rain fly off lol but then again, that's camping," shares a Martin Creek Lake camper who experienced unexpected rain.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and hiking: Marshall Meadows RV & Tiny Home Village provides family-friendly amenities near a pond. "Come see the beautiful outdoors with a nice pond. We're it feels like your home away from home in the Piney woods of East Texas," notes a visitor who found the space well-suited for families.
Swimming options: Martin Creek Lake State Park features designated swimming areas with amenities for children. "Pretty cool play ground, trails to explore, covered picnic tables in the swim area, nice fishing piers. A really cool SP," explains a family camper.
Cabin alternatives: For families not comfortable with tent camping, several parks offer cabins. Caddo Lake State Park cabins receive positive reviews: "We loved the cabin, it made winter camping with kids do-able! Loved hiking and exploring!"
Security features: Many RV parks in the region provide gated access for family safety. At Fernbrook RV Park, a visitor appreciated that "the facilities were secure. Campground is in a quiet area with no road noise. Property was very clean."
Tips from RVers
Hookup placement: Carthage RV Campground offers level concrete pads but requires planning for connections. "I gave it a 4 because the hookups are locate too far back especially if you are pulling a car or trailer behind you RV," notes one RVer, highlighting a common challenge in the region.
Gate codes: Parks with security features require attention to access details. At Martin Creek Lake, "gate is locked at night so keep the email with the code if you want in late or out early," advises a camper who appreciated the security but noted the importance of having access information readily available.
Site spacing: When selecting campgrounds near Tatum, consider privacy preferences. Hitchin' Post RV Park offers convenience near Interstate 20, with one visitor noting it's "Clean, friendly park. Close to a gas station. Laundry facility on site. Close to a small town with stores and restaurants."
Leveling needs: While many parks offer concrete pads, not all sites are perfectly level. A visitor to Laguna Vista RV Park noted their "site was good with easy full hook ups, drive through, but required side leveling," suggesting RVers should bring leveling blocks even when staying at developed campgrounds.
