Pat Mayse East Campground: Your Lakeside Escape in Northeast Texas

Pat Mayse East Campground Introduce

Howdy, Texas adventurers! Are you searching for a serene lakeside retreat where you can unwind, cast a line, or simply enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings? Look no further than Pat Mayse East Campground, nestled on the shores of Pat Mayse Lake in the charming Northeast Texas region. This guide is crafted specifically for you, providing a clear, engaging, and informative overview of what makes this Army Corps of Engineers campground a fantastic destination for your next outdoor adventure. Whether you're an avid angler, a family looking for a peaceful getaway, or an RVer seeking convenient amenities, Pat Mayse East Campground offers a relaxing and enjoyable experience that’s perfect for Texas locals.

Pat Mayse East Campground is a hidden gem that offers a comfortable and accessible camping experience on the banks of Pat Mayse Lake. This year-round campground is well-regarded for being a "bare bones campground" but in a positive way, indicating a focus on essential comforts within a natural setting rather than excessive frills. One reviewer highlighted its affordability, noting, "The price is cheap. Our site A2, was near the lake, and very pretty." This combination of value and scenic beauty is a significant draw for many campers.

Managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Pat Mayse East Campground is designed to provide easy access to the lake's abundant recreational opportunities, making it "a haven for families who enjoy camping, picnicking, swimming, boating, fishing and other outdoor recreation." It's known for being a "very quiet and relaxing campground to enjoy with family," offering a tranquil escape. While an earlier review from 2023 noted "no onsite employees" and potentially locked restrooms, more recent information from Recreation.gov and other sources suggests consistent maintenance and accessible facilities, with features like "showers and bathrooms" that "seemed clean," and a friendly "camp host." This indicates a well-maintained site focused on providing a pleasant outdoor experience for all visitors. The natural beauty of the area, with "plenty of shorebirds to watch" and the ability to "see fish jumping nearby and a variety of birds," further enhances its appeal as a peaceful lakeside retreat.

Pat Mayse East Campground is located in Northeast Texas, with its general address listed as Texas 75411, USA. More specifically, it is situated on the banks of Pat Mayse Lake in Lamar County. For Texas locals, this means it's conveniently accessible from many parts of the state, particularly the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex and other communities in North and East Texas. The campground is located "south of Chicota on FM 197, west of the dam" of Pat Mayse Lake.

Accessibility to Pat Mayse East Campground is generally straightforward. From Paris, Texas, a common reference point in the region, you can "take HWY 271 north for 12 miles to FM 906 W, then 4 miles to FM 197. Turn west for 1 mile to CR 35850. Keep straight until reaching the signs for the two loops." This provides clear driving instructions, making it easy to navigate to the campground. The roads leading to and within the campground are typically well-maintained, ensuring smooth travel for RVs and vehicles. While one older review mentioned "felt kind of abandoned" with locked restrooms, more current information indicates that this is a well-managed Army Corps of Engineers facility with essential amenities accessible, including flush toilets and showers. Being open "24 hours a day," with an entrance that might have "drive over spikes when exiting early in the morning," suggests a secure and controlled environment, even if not always staffed at a gatehouse. This accessibility, combined with its lakeside location, makes it an attractive destination for Texas families and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a convenient getaway.

Pat Mayse East Campground, managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, offers a solid array of services designed for comfortable camping:

Campsites with Electric & Water Hookups: The campground features "85 sites with electric hookups" and "all the campsites have electric and water hookups," making it ideal for RVs and those who prefer modern conveniences.
Tent Camping Options: While many sites have hookups, the campground accommodates tent campers as well, with flat areas noted for tent placement in some loops.
Restroom Facilities: Pat Mayse East provides "flush and pit toilets" for campers' convenience. Recent reviews indicate these are generally "clean and so were the flush toilets."
Shower Houses: Campers have access to "shower houses," providing hot water, which is a significant comfort for both RV and tent campers. One review mentioned individual use bathrooms with showers at a neighboring campground (Pat Mayse West), implying similar comfort levels across the lake's COE parks.
Dump Station: A vital service for RVers, a "dump station" is available for waste disposal.
Potable Water: Access to "drinking water" is provided within the campground.
Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each site is equipped with a "picnic table" and a "fire pit" or "fire ring," complete with a grill, perfect for outdoor cooking and gathering around a campfire. Some sites may also have a "standing grill" and "lantern pole."
Boat Ramp Access: Direct access to "boat ramp" facilities makes it incredibly convenient for those looking to launch their boats for fishing or recreational activities on Pat Mayse Lake.
Reservable Sites: All sites are currently reservable, allowing campers to book "up to 6 months in advance," which is a key feature for planning, especially during peak seasons.
Pet-Friendly: Pat Mayse East is a "pet-friendly campground," welcoming well-behaved pets, a common requirement for many Texas campers.

The features and highlights of Pat Mayse East Campground truly emphasize its appeal as a versatile outdoor destination:

Direct Lake Access and Water Activities: Being right on Pat Mayse Lake, the campground offers "Great access to the water," making it a prime location for "boating, swimming and fishing." The lake is known for excellent fishing opportunities, with species like largemouth bass, white crappie, sunfish, and catfish.
Year-Round Operation: The campground is "open year-round," providing flexibility for Texas locals to visit during any season, although some amenities might have seasonal variations.
Peaceful and Relaxing Atmosphere: Despite offering many amenities, the campground is often described as "very quiet and relaxing," providing a tranquil environment for unwinding and enjoying nature. One reviewer experienced a particularly peaceful stay, noting only "one other RV and a Tent camper were there to share the whole loop. Never spoke to a soul, and barely saw anyone else, which is fine with me."
Scenic Lakeside Sites: Many sites, like the "very pretty" Site A2, are "near the lake" or offer a "good view of the lake," providing picturesque settings for your camping experience. The presence of shade trees at some sites is also a welcome feature, especially during warmer months.
Spacious Campsites: Sites are generally well-spaced, contributing to privacy and a more secluded feel, even within a developed campground. They are "not too close together."
Abundant Wildlife and Birding: The surrounding natural features, including "gently rolling grasslands and mixed hardwood forests studded with mature pines," support a variety of wildlife. Campers can "see fish jumping nearby and a variety of birds," making it excellent for birding and wildlife observation.
Proximity to Barber Hills Mountain Bike and Hiking Trails: The lake area features "a series of trails that run through various parts of the park," offering "exciting adventures to campers and visitors" for both hiking and mountain biking, suitable for various skill levels.
Hunting Opportunities: For those interested, "hunting is a very popular activity in the area," with surrounding lands managed for upland game and whitetail deer.

For direct inquiries or to make a reservation at Pat Mayse East Campground, please use the following contact information. It's always advisable to contact them directly for the most current information on site availability, specific amenities, and any seasonal changes.

Address: Texas 75411, USA (located on Pat Mayse Lake, north of Paris, TX)

Phone: (903) 732-3020 (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers - Pat Mayse Lake Project Office)

Mobile Phone: +1 903-732-3020 (same as above)

Reservations for Pat Mayse East Campground can also be made through Recreation.gov, which is the federal government's online reservation system for recreation sites. You can visit their website at recreation.gov and search for "Pat Mayse East" to check availability and book your stay.

Pat Mayse East Campground is an excellent choice for Texas locals, offering a quintessential lakeside camping experience right in our own backyard. Its location on Pat Mayse Lake in Northeast Texas makes it a relatively easy drive from many major Texas cities, providing a convenient escape without requiring extensive travel. This accessibility is a major plus for Texans looking for a quick weekend getaway or a longer family vacation.

What truly makes Pat Mayse East suitable for Texans is its combination of natural beauty and practical amenities. The opportunity for "boating, swimming and fishing" on the expansive Pat Mayse Lake aligns perfectly with Texas's love for water recreation. Whether you're reeling in largemouth bass, taking a refreshing dip, or cruising the open water, the lake offers endless possibilities for outdoor enjoyment. The availability of electric and water hookups, along with clean restrooms and showers, ensures a comfortable experience for both RVers and tent campers, bridging the gap between rustic charm and modern convenience.

Furthermore, the peaceful and quiet atmosphere of the campground provides a much-needed respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. For Texans seeking a place to truly relax, enjoy scenic lakeside views, and observe abundant wildlife, Pat Mayse East delivers. The year-round availability adds another layer of flexibility, allowing locals to enjoy the beauty of Pat Mayse Lake in any season. From its affordable rates to its well-maintained facilities and prime location for outdoor activities, Pat Mayse East Campground is a top-tier option for Texas families and individuals seeking a memorable and relaxing camping adventure.