Pat Mayse West Campground

For Texans yearning for a refreshing escape into nature, particularly those in the northern and eastern parts of our vast state, Pat Mayse West Campground presents an idyllic destination. Situated on the picturesque shores of Pat Mayse Lake in Lamar County, this year-round campground, managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, offers a quintessential lakeside camping experience. It’s a place where the serene beauty of the Red River Basin meets the convenience of well-maintained facilities, making it a popular choice for families, anglers, boaters, and anyone looking to unwind by the water.

Pat Mayse West Campground is more than just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent; it’s a vibrant hub for outdoor recreation that truly embodies the spirit of Texas’s natural landscape. With its expansive lake, mature trees, and abundant wildlife, it provides a perfect backdrop for creating cherished memories. Whether you're casting a line, exploring the shoreline, or simply enjoying a quiet evening under the stars, Pat Mayse West offers a welcoming and well-equipped environment for all types of campers. It’s a testament to the diverse outdoor opportunities available right here in Northeast Texas, offering a convenient and enriching escape for locals seeking respite and adventure.

Pat Mayse West Campground is conveniently located in Lamar County, Texas, easily accessible from various points in the region. While its direct street address is often listed simply as Texas 75411, USA, it’s specifically situated on the western shore of Pat Mayse Lake. For those traveling from Paris, TX, a common route involves taking US-271 north for approximately 12 miles, then turning onto FM 906 W, followed by FM 197. From there, specific local roads lead directly into the park.

The campground’s position within the Red River Basin provides it with a lush, natural setting characterized by gently rolling grasslands and mixed hardwood forests. Its proximity to Powderly and approximately 12 miles north of Paris, Texas, makes it a relatively short drive for many residents of Northeast Texas. This accessibility, combined with the feeling of being immersed in nature, makes Pat Mayse West a highly desirable destination for a quick weekend getaway or a longer vacation without extensive travel. The well-maintained access roads ensure a smooth arrival for RVs, trailers, and other vehicles, making the start of your adventure as seamless as possible.

Pat Mayse West Campground is well-equipped to provide a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience, catering to both RV and tent campers. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers manages the site, ensuring a good standard of amenities and maintenance.

• Campsites with Hookups: The campground boasts 88 campsites, with 83 of these offering electric and water hookups. This is ideal for RVs and trailers, providing essential utilities for a comfortable stay. Parking spurs are spacious, accommodating vehicles ranging from 30 to 90 feet.
• Tent Camping Options: For those who prefer a more traditional camping experience, there are also sites suitable for tents, some with water hookups available, ensuring access to potable water.
• Individual Site Amenities: Each campsite is thoughtfully equipped with a picnic table, a lantern post, and a fire ring with a grate, perfect for cooking over an open fire or enjoying a campfire under the stars. BBQ grills are also available at some sites.
• Restroom Facilities: The campground provides both flush and vault toilets, ensuring convenient access to restroom facilities for all campers. Reviewers frequently note the cleanliness of these facilities, with new bathhouses and showers near the dump station being a welcome addition.
• Hot-Water Showers: Hot-water showers are available, a much-appreciated amenity, especially after a day of outdoor activities on the lake or trails.
• Dump Station: A sanitary dump station is provided for RVs, making waste disposal convenient for longer stays.
• Drinking Water: Potable drinking water is available throughout the campground, ensuring campers have access to fresh water.
• Boat Ramp: A boat ramp provides easy access to Pat Mayse Lake for boating, fishing, and water sports enthusiasts. There's often a courtesy dock nearby for convenience.
• Group Shelter: A group shelter is available, ideal for larger gatherings, family reunions, or organized events, providing a covered space for communal activities.
• Swim Beach: A designated swim beach allows visitors to safely enjoy the refreshing waters of Pat Mayse Lake, particularly popular during warmer months.
• Playground: For families with children, a playground is on-site, offering a dedicated space for kids to play and expend some energy.
• Firewood Availability: Firewood can often be purchased from the camp host, ensuring campers have a ready supply for their campfires.

Pat Mayse West Campground offers a multitude of features that make it a standout destination for outdoor recreation in Northeast Texas.

• Lakeside Location and Activities: Its prime location directly on Pat Mayse Lake is a significant highlight. The lake, spanning nearly 6,000 acres with 67 miles of shoreline, provides exceptional opportunities for boating, fishing (known for largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, and sunfish), swimming, and various water sports. Many campsites offer direct or very close access to the water, some even allowing campers to fish directly from their site.
• Year-Round Operation: Unlike some seasonal campgrounds, Pat Mayse West is open year-round, offering Texans the flexibility to enjoy its natural beauty and recreational opportunities in all four seasons. This is particularly appealing for those who enjoy cooler weather camping.
• Spacious and Well-Maintained Campsites: Campers consistently praise the spaciousness of the sites, which are often asphalt-paved and include picnic tables, fire rings, and lantern posts. While some sites may require leveling, the overall impression is one of well-kept facilities and ample room between sites, offering a sense of privacy.
• Abundant Wildlife and Nature: The campground is set amidst gently rolling grasslands and mixed hardwood forests, teeming with wildlife. It's an excellent spot for birdwatching, observing deer, fox squirrels, and other local fauna. The natural beauty of the area creates a truly immersive outdoor experience.
• Family-Friendly Environment: With amenities like a playground and a swim beach, coupled with the wide array of recreational activities, Pat Mayse West is an ideal destination for families looking to spend quality time together outdoors. The secure and peaceful atmosphere contributes to a relaxing family vacation.
• Cell Service Availability: Good cell service in the area is a practical highlight for many modern campers, allowing for connectivity while still enjoying the outdoors.
• Proximity to Public Hunting Areas: For hunting enthusiasts, the surrounding lands, managed for upland game and whitetail deer, are open to the public as a public hunting area, providing an additional recreational draw.
• Excellent Value: Reviews often highlight the reasonable pricing, making it an affordable option for a high-quality camping experience in a beautiful natural setting. Occasional winter free camping periods are also noted by some, though confirmation is always recommended.

For more specific information regarding Pat Mayse West Campground, including current conditions, availability, and to make reservations, it is best to use the official channels. As a US Army Corps of Engineers managed campground, reservations are typically made through the national recreation reservation system.

Address: Texas 75411, USA (located on the western shore of Pat Mayse Lake, near Powderly and Paris, TX)

Reservation Phone: 1-877-444-6777 (Recreation.gov)

Website: Recreation.gov (search for Pat Mayse West)

For campground specific inquiries, you may sometimes find local gatehouse numbers, such as (903) 732-4956 or (903) 732-3020 for the Pat Mayse Lake Project Office.

For Texans seeking an outstanding outdoor experience that combines the tranquility of nature with convenient amenities, Pat Mayse West Campground is an exceptionally suitable choice. Its location on the western shore of Pat Mayse Lake in Lamar County makes it easily accessible for many residents of Northeast Texas, offering a convenient escape without requiring extensive travel. This means more time enjoying the great outdoors and less time on the road, which is a significant plus for families and individuals looking for a quick and refreshing break from their daily routines.

The campground's wide array of services, including 83 sites with electric and water hookups, spacious individual sites with picnic tables and fire rings, and clean modern restrooms with hot showers, ensures a comfortable and hassle-free stay for both RV and tent campers. This balance of natural beauty and practical amenities is particularly appealing to local Texans, who can enjoy the rustic charm of camping without sacrificing essential comforts. The availability of a dump station and potable water further enhances the convenience for longer stays, making it truly a home away from home by the lake.

Moreover, the vibrant recreational opportunities available at Pat Mayse West are perfectly aligned with the interests of Texans. Whether you're an avid angler hoping to reel in a largemouth bass, a boater eager to explore the expansive lake, a family looking for a safe swim beach and playground for the kids, or simply someone who appreciates wildlife viewing and peaceful nature walks, this campground has something for everyone. Its year-round operation means that locals can enjoy the beauty of Pat Mayse Lake in any season, from the lush greens of spring to the vibrant colors of autumn, or even the quiet solitude of a winter camp.

The consistent positive feedback from past visitors, highlighting the accommodating staff, well-maintained grounds, and peaceful atmosphere, reinforces its reputation as a reliable and enjoyable destination. While some sites might require a bit of leveling, the overall value and quality of the experience at Pat Mayse West are consistently praised. For Texans, this means access to a high-quality, affordable outdoor getaway that fosters a deeper connection with our state's beautiful natural landscapes, making it an invaluable local treasure for creating lasting memories with family and friends.

Pat Mayse West Campground

Texas 75411, USA