We thoroughly enjoyed Tyler SP. It has it all. Scenic sites alongside the lake, cel phone coverage (if you need that), OK WIFI, full hookups to include sewer, friendly park staff, large sites, hiking trails, and LOTS of raccoons (so don't leave food out). We stayed during the week and it was very peaceful, not sure what weekends are like. We'll definitely visit this one again.
We got in without a reservation but I could see that it would be best to have one. We stayed in section A-9. The trees r very tall and beautiful. Very quiet and very dark.
This is a nice park that lacks a bit of upkeep. That said, it was very busy for a Wednesday night lay over. This park was a one night layover between destinations. We did not explore all options, but there are a variety of things to do including swimming, fishing, boating, hiking and more! I deducted one star for the following reasons: 1) The site were pretty well worn and generally small. The plus is that they were all pull through and full hook up, however, they were "U" with large rocks and/or poles on all sides which made them a bit difficult to maneuver. 2) Loud garbage pick-up/camp host. It may have just been the day we stayed, and/or our proximity to each of the above, but it was enough to bother me. The dumpsters were emptied at 7:00 am. They were VERY loud banging noises that echoed as the garbage truck went dumpster to dumpster. Not soon after the dumpsters were emptied the camp host began driving his Gator from site to site noting late arrivals and some other information. No big deal, but the Gator was very loud. I am not sure what the quite hours are, but it would have been nice for the park staff to abide by them. 3) Check in Process. As I mentioned it was very busy when we checked in on a Wednesday afternoon. We were unable to pick out our site online, and they asked us to pick there. Having never been to the park we had no idea. We would have normally liked to go check out the sites and then pick one and come back, but with a line of camper waiting to check in that was impossible. This process could be easily avoided by having a more modern registration process. All in all, it was a nice park that I would visit again.
A nice winter stay. Trees throughout, and the restrooms are clean. Basic shower, so don't expect high class bathing. Sites are not perfectly level, but close, so easy to set up your camper. This was a winter stay so some of the camping loops don't have open bathrooms. Be sure to check status when you arrive. Nice and quiet, again as it was a winter's stay. Wish all private campgrounds were this nice.
One of our favorite state parks.
Beautiful East TX park. We reserved a site in the Lakeview section ahead of time and arrived mid afternoon and found a great spot with plenty of room around us. The pretty, heavily treed park is kept up nicely. We found it spotless, including the bathrooms. That is likely the norm, but for sure had a lot to do with the wonderful park hosts staying near where we were camping. We have a 25' motorhome and backed into our site, but there are pull-throughs. The campsites are spacious with plenty of area around them should you want to set up a tent. We set up 2 ENO Hammocks, left our bikes out, had a lantern pole, picnic table and fire ring with a grill grate. Firewood can be purchased via the honor system by the camp host's site. We had full hookups and concrete pad, which required leveling blocks. Our site was shaded and on the water. Because of the tall trees, satellite didn't work. No biggie. I didn't pay attention to whether or not there were spots with a clear view to the sky. You can rent boats & fishing equipment. There is a swimming area. If you enjoy biking, birding, hiking or geocaching, there are plenty of options/trails. We intended to ride bikes, but it was hilly, so we passed since we are both flatlands and not in good bike shape. We took a nice hike around the perimeter of the lake...maybe a couple of miles? The camp store is well appointed. The only issue we ran into were the thieving raccoons who have a taste for prime rib-eye. One of the fearless little buggers managed to steal half of a steak right off the grill when we walked a few feet away! (so much for leftovers!). Our neighbors, who frequent this park, say raccoons are a big problem at this park, so keep your coolers and everything food related inside your car/camper! Specific sites at TX State Parks are first come first served, although you can reserve a "space" beforehand. The ranger said starting Dec 2017, you will be able to book "site specific" spots online. Day use fee is $3/day per person. We got a TX State Park pass for $40, which negates the day use fee and if you stay more than one night, you get half off the 2nd night. Well worth it if you plan on camping/using TX state parks more than a couple times. Book early; this is a popular park, close to Dallas & fills up during the season...
Everything from our review two years ago is still accurate except that we did hear some traffic noise is the distance this time, and the power went out after a storm for about 16 hours. Also, there are lots of ants in the campsites, which invaded our RV, and the park was out of firewood the entire week we were there. We bought some at the nearby convenience store, but it turned out to be so green it wouldn't burn. Other than that, we enjoyed a lovely stay. Staff was friendly and helpful, as were the hosts. We enjoyed hiking and boating, and relaxing while taking in the view of the lake. Overall it is a very nice park.
This is our 2nd stay here and it is so nice here. Peaceful, clean and beautiful. The campsites are nice and well maintained. Bathrooms are nice with separate shower rooms. A great place to stop, rest, relax and we love the Mtn bike trails here too.
Pull throughs are a little cramped but still accommodate up to a 30 ft trailer and tow vehicle wIthout unhooking. Soil is sandy so remember to wipe your feet. Lake for fishing and hiking trails. Good group areas for picnics and events. Convenient to I 20 freeway gas stations, and shopping.
Stopped here specifically to take a shower. NO HOT WATER. Raccoons in dumpster. $24.00 TO camp but an additional $6.00 EACH entrance fee. We don't recommend.
We came to celebrate our 28th wedding anniversary. This was our 1rst time to stay at this park. We stayed at the Big Pine Section in site 55. It was a great location and pretty shaded most of the day. It was right off the lake by the dam. It is a beautiful park and lots to do. It does have the best store in a state park that I have seen. Lots of supplies and goodies there. Swimming area was great with clear water and sandy bottom. There are lots of racoons that come into camp wanting food. Very brave little critters. My wife was even petting one. I would use caution around them as they are unpredictable, but we did not have any issues with them bothoring us. At one time we had 4 to 5 in the campsite with us. I was very impressed with this park and will return in the future.
Nice pull-thru sites in the trees with plenty of shade. Big park with lots of rv and tent camping stayed in big pine camp area site 304 plenty of room for 30 ft. Travel trailer plus rig. Only 4 Stars the restrooms need some work but did not need them. Would stay again