Pat Mayse East Campground

Introduction / Overview

For Texans seeking a genuine escape into the beauty of nature, Pat Mayse East Campground in Arthur City offers a compelling destination. Nestled on the scenic banks of Pat Mayse Lake, this campground is a tranquil haven for a variety of outdoor enthusiasts, particularly those who cherish both water activities and equestrian pursuits. Far from the hustle and bustle of city life, Pat Mayse East provides a serene environment where the sounds of nature prevail, and the starry Texas sky feels closer than ever. It's a place where families can create lasting memories, anglers can pursue their passion, and horse lovers can explore miles of well-maintained trails. While it embraces a more rustic charm, particularly with some of its facilities, the natural beauty and the dedicated amenities for both campers and their equine companions truly set it apart. The emphasis here is on enjoying the vast Texas outdoors, whether you're by the water's edge or riding through the picturesque landscapes. Visitors consistently note the helpfulness of the campground hosts and the overall clean environment, making it a reliable choice for a relaxing and engaging outdoor experience.

Location and Accessibility

Pat Mayse East Campground is conveniently located at Pat Mayse E Park Rd, Arthur City, TX 75411, USA, placing it directly on the eastern shores of the sprawling Pat Mayse Lake in Lamar County, Northeast Texas. This location provides a fantastic balance of secluded natural beauty with reasonable accessibility from larger towns. For those traveling from Paris, TX, the campground is approximately 12 miles north, accessible via Highway 271, followed by FM 906 W and FM 197. This straightforward route makes it an easy drive for Texans coming from areas like Dallas-Fort Worth, which is about a two-hour drive southwest, or Texarkana, roughly an hour's drive to the east. The approach to the campground, even on rural roads, is generally well-marked, ensuring that campers can navigate to their destination without significant difficulty. While some internal roads and site levels might require careful maneuvering for larger RVs, the overall accessibility to this lakeside retreat is a significant advantage. Its position on Pat Mayse Lake means immediate access to a vast body of water, inviting visitors to enjoy boating, fishing, and swimming right from the campground's vicinity. The remote yet accessible nature of Pat Mayse East allows for a true escape without feeling entirely cut off from necessary supplies or emergency services in nearby towns.

Services Offered

• Electric Hookups: Many sites are equipped with electric hookups, primarily 30-amp, to provide power for RVs and trailers. While some connections may be older, they generally function as intended.
• Water Access: Water sources are available within the campground, though for some sites, a longer hose may be required to reach the nearest spigot. There is also a convenient water fill station just outside the campground for larger tanks.
• Vault Toilets: The campground features clean and well-maintained vault toilets. These are noted for having lighting, a convenient feature often missing in similar facilities.
• Dump Station: A sanitary dump station is located just outside the campground entrance, providing a crucial service for RV campers to dispose of their waste responsibly.
• Horse Pens/Corrals: For equestrian enthusiasts, dedicated and well-maintained pens or corrals are available for horses, offering a secure and comfortable space for your equine companions.
• Swimming Area: A designated swimming area provides a safe and enjoyable spot for campers to cool off in Pat Mayse Lake during warmer months.
• Charcoal Grills/Fire Rings: Each campsite typically includes a charcoal grill or fire ring, allowing for outdoor cooking and enjoyable campfires.
• Picnic Tables: Standard picnic tables are provided at each site for outdoor dining and gathering.

Features / Highlights

• Beautiful Lakeside Setting: The campground is situated on the picturesque Pat Mayse Lake, offering stunning water views from many sites and easy access to fishing, boating, and swimming.
• Dedicated Horse Facilities: A significant highlight is the provision of horse corrals and beautifully cleared equestrian trails, making it a premier destination for horseback riding and camping with horses.
• Friendly and Helpful Host: Many visitors commend the super nice and accommodating campground hosts who contribute positively to the overall camping experience.
• Clean Vault Toilets with Light: Despite being vault toilets, they are consistently described as clean and even feature lighting, which is a notable convenience.
• Proximity to Outdoor Activities: Beyond the lake, the surrounding area is managed for hunting (during designated seasons) and offers opportunities for wildlife viewing, making it a diverse outdoor destination.
• Spacious Campsites: While some sites may require leveling, they generally offer ample space between them, providing a sense of privacy and openness.
• Affordable Option: Compared to many other campgrounds, Pat Mayse East offers a cost-effective solution for a multi-night stay, providing good value for the amenities and natural setting.
• Water Fill and Dump Station Convenience: The presence of a water fill and dump station just outside the campground entrance is a major plus for RVers, simplifying essential tasks.

Contact Information

For inquiries, reservations, or any assistance regarding your stay at Pat Mayse East Campground, you can directly contact the park. The primary phone number is (903) 732-4956. For those calling from a mobile device or outside the immediate area, the full mobile number is +1 903-732-4956. While specific site reservations are often made through online platforms like Recreation.gov, these contact numbers are essential for direct communication, checking on current conditions, or asking about specific amenities like horse trail availability. The physical address for the campground is Pat Mayse E Park Rd, Arthur City, TX 75411, USA. It is advisable to call ahead, especially during peak seasons or if you have specific needs, to ensure the best possible experience during your visit to this beautiful Texas campground.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Texans, Pat Mayse East Campground is a truly suitable and appealing local camping destination that encapsulates much of what makes our state's outdoor experiences unique. Firstly, its location on Pat Mayse Lake, easily accessible from major population centers in North Texas, means that a refreshing lakeside escape is within a convenient driving distance. This cuts down on travel time, allowing more precious moments to be spent enjoying the outdoors, which is a significant plus for busy individuals and families looking for a quick weekend getaway. The standout feature for many Texans, especially those with an appreciation for equestrian activities, is the combination of camping with dedicated horse facilities. The well-maintained corrals and cleared trails offer a rare opportunity to truly integrate horseback riding into your camping experience, a pursuit deeply rooted in Texas culture. Furthermore, the diverse recreational opportunities on Pat Mayse Lake—from excellent fishing for various species to swimming and boating—cater to a wide range of interests that Texans enjoy. Even with the more rustic elements, like the vault toilets, the consistent feedback on their cleanliness and the friendly demeanor of the campground hosts speaks to a level of care and hospitality that aligns with Texas values. The affordable camping fees also make it an accessible option for many, demonstrating that a quality outdoor experience doesn't always have to come with a hefty price tag. For those who value a peaceful, natural setting with opportunities for both land and water recreation, and especially for those who love their horses, Pat Mayse East Campground offers an authentic and rewarding slice of the Texas outdoors right in their backyard.

Pat Mayse East Campground

Pat Mayse E Park Rd, Arthur City, TX 75411, USA