Jim's RV Park

Introduction / Overview

For RV enthusiasts across Texas, finding the right park that aligns with their specific needs and expectations is key to an enjoyable journey. Jim's RV Park, located in Tatum, TX, presents itself as an option for those traveling through East Texas. This park, like many, caters to a range of visitors, from those needing a simple overnight stop to individuals or families seeking a longer-term stay. However, understanding the real-world experiences of previous guests is paramount for any Texan planning their route. Public reviews suggest that Jim's RV Park might offer a different experience than larger, more resort-style RV parks such as a KOA Journey. It appears to be a smaller, potentially more rustic establishment, with a notable presence of permanent residents. While some visitors have found it to be a suitable and accommodating spot for a short stay, others have reported challenges related to space, maintenance, and the overall atmosphere. This article aims to provide a factual and balanced overview of Jim's RV Park, drawing directly from available customer feedback to help fellow Texans make an informed decision. We will explore its location, what services are typically offered, and highlight key features—both positive and those that might warrant consideration—to ensure potential visitors have a clear picture before arriving at this Tatum, Texas RV park.

Location and Accessibility

Jim's RV Park is situated at 15195 TX-43, Tatum, TX 75691, USA. This address places it in East Texas, a region known for its piney woods, numerous lakes, and small, charming towns. Tatum itself is a relatively small community, providing a quieter backdrop compared to larger Texan cities, yet it is still within a reasonable driving distance of bigger hubs like Longview, Kilgore, Henderson, Marshall, and Carthage. The park's location directly on Texas State Highway 43 (TX-43) is a significant advantage for accessibility. TX-43 is a well-traveled state highway, ensuring easy ingress and egress for RVs of all sizes, including larger rigs like a "Phaeton." This direct highway access makes it a convenient stop for those "passing thru and needing a spot to stay for a couple of days" without having to navigate complex city streets or remote backroads. While the specific distance to local amenities like gas stations, grocery stores, or dining options is not detailed, being on a state highway typically implies reasonable proximity to such conveniences in Tatum or nearby communities. For Texans traversing the eastern part of the state, Jim's RV Park offers a straightforward and accessible location for their RV travel needs, minimizing detours and maximizing ease of arrival.

Services Offered

• Full Hookups: Includes water, sewer, and electricity (30/50 amp sites available). This is a standard and essential service for RV parks.
• Pull-Through Sites: Provides sites designed for easy access, allowing RVs to pull straight through rather than requiring backing in.
• Parking for Toad: Sufficient space for parking a towed vehicle alongside the RV.
• Free Wi-Fi: Wireless internet access is provided for guests.
• Free Cable Connection: Cable television access is available at sites.
• Laundry Room: Facilities for washing and drying clothes are typically provided.
• Soda Vending Machine: An on-site vending option for beverages.
• On-site Management: Managers are present at the park, described as "nice people who will do their best to make your stay pleasant."
• Utilities Included: For monthly rates, all utilities are typically included in the price.

Features / Highlights

• Suitable for Overnight Stays: Often mentioned as a "suitable pull through" option for those needing to "overnight" their rig, particularly larger RVs.
• Friendly Management: Managers are consistently described as "nice people" who are willing to assist guests and "do their best to make your stay pleasant."
• Affordable Monthly Rates: Advertised monthly rates starting at $350, with all utilities included, which can be a significant draw for long-term stays.
• Located on State Highway 43: Provides easy access for all sizes of RVs, minimizing detours for travelers.
• Proximity to Martin Creek Lake State Park: Located "across the street from Martin Creek Lake State Park," offering nearby outdoor recreation opportunities.
• Predominantly Permanent Residents: A significant feature, as reviews indicate the park is "mostly permanent residents," which can create a unique community dynamic.
• Small and Potentially Run-Down (as reported): Some reviews describe the place as "a little small" and "a little run down," suggesting a more rustic or less manicured appearance compared to resort-style parks.
• Limited Space (as reported): Some sites are described as "really small," potentially impacting comfort, especially for longer stays or larger rigs.
• Maintenance Concerns (as reported): Issues mentioned include a "constantly tripping" outside breaker, and the water being "slimey" even with a new filter.
• Pest Issues (as reported): Reports of "LOTS of flies and gnats," and a persistent "sour wet dog smell" outside campers.
• Noise and Unsupervised Pets (as reported): Mentions of "constant hollering and screaming" and "dogs running loose," with an incident involving manager's dogs.
• Customer Service Issues (as reported): While managers are generally "nice," there are accounts of promised site changes not materializing and intimidating interactions regarding pet behavior.

Contact Information

Address: 15195 TX-43, Tatum, TX 75691, USA

Phone: (903) 252-7660

Mobile Phone: +1 903-252-7660

For inquiries regarding availability, current rates, specific site details, or any other questions about Jim's RV Park, prospective visitors are encouraged to contact the park directly using the provided phone numbers. Given the varied nature of customer feedback, direct communication with the managers can be beneficial for understanding the current conditions and ensuring the park aligns with your expectations for an RV stay in Tatum, Texas.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Texans on the road, Jim's RV Park in Tatum presents a specific type of RV accommodation that may be suitable depending on individual priorities. Its location directly on TX-43 offers convenient accessibility for those traversing East Texas, making it a viable option for a quick "overnight" stop. For Texans with larger rigs, the availability of "suitable pull through" sites with parking for a "toad" addresses a practical need for easy in-and-out access. Furthermore, the reported affordability of monthly rates with utilities included could be a significant draw for local residents seeking a budget-friendly option for extended stays or as a temporary base. The presence of friendly managers, who reportedly "do their best to make your stay pleasant," suggests a level of personal service that can be comforting. However, it's crucial for Texans to consider the insights from other local users. The park appears to cater predominantly to "permanent residents," which creates a different dynamic than a typical transient campground, potentially affecting the overall atmosphere. Concerns about small sites, maintenance issues like tripping breakers and water quality, as well as observations regarding noise, pests, and unsupervised dogs, are important factors for Texans who prioritize a pristine or highly manicured environment. Ultimately, if a Texas RVer needs a no-frills, accessible spot for a brief stopover or a very cost-effective long-term solution and is prepared for a more communal, lived-in environment, Jim's RV Park could fit the bill. For those seeking a resort-like experience with abundant amenities and strict adherence to quiet hours and pet rules, other options in East Texas might be more suitable. It's a place where practicality and budget-friendliness appear to be key offerings, making it a functional choice for specific local needs.

Jim's RV Park

15195 TX-43, Tatum, TX 75691, USA