The area surrounding Mineola, Texas features diverse campgrounds within mixed pine and oak woodlands. The region's elevation averages 380 feet above sea level, creating rolling terrain that affects campsite layouts and water drainage during East Texas rainstorms. Between October and April, campers typically experience mild temperatures ranging from 45-75°F with lower humidity than summer months.
What to do
Kayaking and paddleboarding: Tyler State Park offers a calm lake environment perfect for beginners and experienced paddlers. "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," notes Sarah J. from Tyler State Park Campground.
Mountain biking: The trails at Tyler State Park provide varied terrain for cyclists. "Sites are good but trails for biking and hiking are great!!" shares Jill C. from Tyler State Park. Trails range from beginner-friendly loops to more technical routes with moderate elevation changes.
Frisbee golf: Mineola Nature Preserve includes a disc golf course among its recreational options. "Set up your basic base camp near a picnic table and fire ring then go out into the park to hike, bike, horseback ride, frisbee golf, kayak and observe nature," explains Andrew A. about Greer Hill, the tent-only camping area within the preserve.
What campers like
Lake activities: Campers consistently rate the water access highly. "Great RV park, concrete pads, well maintained quiet. This is one of my favorite finds in TX. Everything you need," writes Chris P. about Lake Hawkins County RV Park. The park features a swimming beach with designated areas for campers.
Free camping options: Budget-conscious campers appreciate the no-cost sites. "Boondocking at its finest!" reports Boundless W. about Lake Quitman West Dam, where primitive camping is available without reservation. "Wonderful place to do some Boondocking and for FREE! You can park where you can fit and stay as long as you wish," adds Lawrence P.
Evening activities: Many campgrounds organize nighttime entertainment. "Great evening movies, lots of fun activities, and close to Tyler if you decide to venture out and get some good food, or find something to do!" says Savanah H. about Jellystone Park Tyler. Campers also mention spotting wildlife after dark at several area campgrounds.
What you should know
Reservation realities: The best places to camp near Mineola book quickly during peak periods. "Hard to get reservations because it is so popular! If you get reservations it's kinda like winning the lottery 😃. But it's all worth it!" warns Tammie L. about Tyler State Park.
Restroom facilities vary greatly: Some campgrounds have modern facilities while others offer minimal or no amenities. "I stayed down on the lakefront for 7 days. Only 2 campers besides me. Room for many many more. Fish jumping! Quiet at night. No bathrooms, so be totally self contained!" advises Luann K. about Lake Quitman West Dam.
Trash management concerns: Lake Holbrook Park-South suffers from litter problems. "No bathrooms and the trash cans are all upside down and screwed to polls. So there is trash EVERYWHERE! In the lake, on the shore, on the roadways. Other than the trash this place is absolutely breathtaking," reports Daisee Mae S. from Lake Holbrook Park-South.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for kids: Several campgrounds feature swimming areas designed for families. "We visited here for a weekend get away with friends and their families. We all have young kids and had a blast, playing at the sandy beach on the lake and just enjoying some play time around the campsites," explains Gabby T. about Lake Hawkins County RV Park.
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer excellent play equipment. "The playground is one of the best I've seen at the state parks we've been to! We love our SP so close to home!" says Becca H. about Tyler State Park.
Community facilities: Music Springs provides unique shared amenities. "The bathrooms and shower are clean, there's a community kitchen that has a microwave, coffee maker, and refrigerator. The whole place is decorated very nicely. There's a nice lawn and games, plenty of chairs, lights in the trees, and even wifi," describes Karen M.
Tips from RVers
Level sites matter: Experienced RVers appreciate well-maintained pads. "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. We've been several places throughout the country and our site was extremely level. Plenty of room in pull through sites to keep toad hooked up behind 42' Tiffin Bus," explains Paul C. about The Trails at Lavender Road.
Connectivity considerations: Cell service quality varies significantly between campgrounds. "Roads make it easy to get around and get into your site. Most pads are concrete, very clean well kept campground. View of lake is wonderful, peaceful and huge spaces. Lots of places for kids to play or ride bikes. Great At&t signal to work lake side," shares Jon S. about Lake Hawkins County RV Park.
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds offer full hookups. "Limited number of full hook ups but they have a honey wagon. Will definitely come back to this park," notes Charles P. about Lake Hawkins County RV Park.
