Tyler State Park serves as the centerpiece for camping near Tyler, Texas, located in the Piney Woods region of East Texas. With elevations ranging from 400-500 feet above sea level, the area's mixed pine-hardwood forest creates natural camping opportunities within a 90-minute drive of Dallas. Campgrounds remain accessible through most weather conditions, though summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity from June through August.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: Tyler State Park's 13 miles of trails accommodate various skill levels, from novice to experienced riders. "Sites are good but trails for biking and hiking are great!!" noted Jill C. about Tyler State Park Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple access points exist at both developed and primitive fishing locations throughout the area. "The lake is perfect and had a nice beach. We were able to rent kayaks and paddle boats," wrote Sarah J. about her family's experience at Tyler State Park.
Water activities: Beyond swimming, visitors enjoy kayaking and paddle boarding from spring through fall. According to Peter F., Tyler State Park offers a "Pine forest and beautiful lake for swimming, paddel boarding (SUP), or fishing. Lots of hiking/mountain bike trails."
Holiday events: Several campgrounds host seasonal activities during major holidays. At Stillwater RV Resort, "They had a bunch of activities for the holiday weekend which were fun! Duck races on two days, firework show (very good and free,) bingo, chalk contest, find the flags, etc!" according to Alyssa F.
What campers like
Waterfront camping: Sites with lake views provide direct water access for various activities. One visitor noted about The Boulders at Lake Tyler, "We stopped for one night on a holiday weekend but wish we had had more time. Although the sites were close together, they all had concrete pads, full hookups, were level, and had picnic tables."
Family-oriented amenities: Many sites near Tyler cater specifically to families with children. "Our site was very shady, and our ac had no issue keeping up with the temps. Our particular site was a pie shape," wrote Savanah H. about Jellystone Park™ Tyler.
Wildlife observation: Several reviewers mention the variety of wildlife viewable from campsites. "We went with a group of teardrop friends. This has become our annual gathering place. Tall pine trees and a small lake. The lake is perfect for kayaking and fishing from one of several docks," shared Dianne C. about Tyler State Park.
Playground facilities: Multiple campgrounds maintain dedicated children's play areas. "My family and I enjoy the trails and lake at this park. The playground is one of the best I've seen at the state parks we've been to!" remarked Becca H. about Tyler State Park.
What you should know
Site leveling requirements: Many campgrounds in the area require some adjustment for leveling RVs. "You will need to do some leveling. Another thing, make sure you bring a lot of sewer hose! We had our 20ft and had to go to Walmart to get an extension, they put it nearly at the front of the site!" advised a recent visitor to Stillwater RV Resort.
Reservation challenges: Popular sites book quickly, particularly during peak seasons. "Great little lake to fish, kayak, swim and hike! Hard to get reservations because it is so popular! If you get reservations it's kinda like winning the lottery," explained Tammie L. about Tyler State Park.
Wildlife awareness: Raccoons are frequently mentioned as active in multiple campgrounds. "Great spot found a week out from trip. Just wanted to spend a night there to check it all out. Great trails and swimming area. The shop was closed while I was there and the boat rentals as well. Be careful for raccoons saw a lot of them while here!" warned Myc C. about Tyler State Park.
Seasonal operation variations: Some amenities only operate during specific seasons or times. At Lake Hawkins County RV Park, "The rv spots were comfortable and well spaced. It gets busy on weekends but is quiet and secluded during the week," according to George B.
Tips for camping with families
Water feature planning: Schedule water activities earlier in the day to avoid afternoon crowds. "The day use swimming area can get crowded on the weekends but there's plenty of quieter access points," suggested a visitor to Tyler State Park.
Kid-friendly hiking: Select shorter, more moderate trails for young children. "The hiking is not the greatest but it was easy enough for my toddler," shared Sarah J. about the trails at Tyler State Park.
Entertainment options: Some resorts offer specialized children's programming. At Jellystone Park Tyler, one visitor reported, "We stayed busy the entire stay! So much fun and lots to do with hay 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!"
Booking cabins: Reserve well in advance for cabin accommodations, especially during summer and holidays. "This park has tiny houses along the pond to rent and are spacious," noted Beverly D. about Jellystone Park Tyler.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Request sites away from main roads for less traffic noise. At The Trails at Lavender Road, "Dean, the owner and manager, was exceptionally nice. The area is quiet and well maintained. Easy location to access from I-20. Verizon works great... Plenty of room in pull through sites to keep toad hooked up behind 42' Tiffin Bus."
Hookup locations: Sewer connections may require extension hoses at some campgrounds. "Most pads are concrete, very clean well kept campground. View of lake is wonderful, peaceful and huge spaces," noted Jon S. about Lake Hawkins County RV Park.
Overnight convenience: Several parks accommodate late arrivals with easy check-in procedures. "We stayed as just an overnight stop. Called in advance and planned for a late arrival. We pulled in about 930pm. Site was very easy to find in the dark and easy to pull into," shared one reviewer about Tyler Oaks RV Resort.
Cellular connectivity: Service strength varies by carrier and specific campground location. "Nice area to stay overnight or for few days. Verizon works great," reported a visitor to The Trails at Lavender Road.
