Murvaul RV Park in Carthage, TX: Lakeside Camping on Lake Murvaul

Murvaul RV Park Introduce

For Texans who love the great outdoors, especially those drawn to the tranquility of lake life and the adventure of RV travel, finding a suitable park is key to a memorable experience. Deep in the heart of East Texas, the Murvaul RV Park, also known as Lake Murvaul Campground and Marina, offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature on the beautiful 3,800-acre Lake Murvaul. This article is designed specifically for you, our local users in Texas, to provide a comprehensive and factual overview of what this park offers, balancing its highlights with candid insights from previous visitors.

Lake Murvaul is renowned as East Texas's "best-kept secret," boasting an excellent largemouth bass fishery and ample opportunities for crappie and catfish. Murvaul RV Park provides a gateway to these aquatic adventures, offering not just RV sites but also cabins and various amenities designed to enhance a lakeside getaway. Whether you're planning a quick fishing trip, a family camping weekend, or considering a longer stay, understanding the ins and outs of Murvaul RV Park is essential. We will delve into its location, the services it provides, its key features, and some points to consider, ensuring you have a well-rounded picture of this East Texas destination.

Murvaul RV Park is located at 154 Co Rd 1839, Carthage, TX 75633, USA. It's important to note that public records and other sources also associate the park with the address 638 FM 1234, Carthage, TX 75633, as part of the broader Lake Murvaul Park and Marina operated by the Panola County Fresh Water Supply District Number One. This location places the park directly on the shores of Lake Murvaul, approximately ten miles southwest of the city of Carthage, within Panola County.

For Texans, this means convenient access to a significant recreational lake in the Piney Woods region of East Texas. Carthage, as the county seat, offers essential services like grocery stores, fuel, and some dining options, all within a reasonable drive from the park. The park's lakeside setting provides a sense of remoteness and natural beauty, while still being accessible via well-maintained county roads. This makes it an ideal spot for those seeking a quiet escape, yet still wanting to be close enough to town for supplies. Furthermore, its position allows for easy access to the lake's various boat ramps and fishing spots, making it a prime location for anglers and water sports enthusiasts from across the state.

Murvaul RV Park (Lake Murvaul Campground and Marina) offers a range of services designed to accommodate various types of outdoor enthusiasts, from RVers to cabin renters.

RV Sites with Full Hookups: The park provides 75 RV sites, each typically equipped with full hookups, including 30 and 50 amp electrical service, water, and sewer connections. Each RV site also includes a picnic table and a fire pit, enhancing the camping experience.
Cabin Rentals: The park offers "newly remodeled" cabins for rent, including small cabins (sleeping 4), large cabins (sleeping 6), a lodge (sleeping 16), and a Lakehouse (sleeping 12). These cabins typically include galley kitchens (some with full kitchens), bed linens, and towels, providing a more comfortable stay for those without an RV.
Tent Camping: A large area is designated for tent camping, including 10 sites with water and electricity, and primitive tent sites for a more rustic experience.
Boat Launch Ramps: The park provides free boat launching ramps, with additional remote sites available at Rosie Jones, Tinkle Park, and the 1971 Park, offering easy access to Lake Murvaul for boating and fishing.
Fishing Piers: There are three fishing piers, one of which is ADA accessible, providing convenient spots for angling directly from the shore.
Marina Services: An on-site marina operates year-round, offering snacks, meals, and seasonally available bait, catering to both hungry campers and avid fishermen.
Restroom and Shower Facilities: The park provides restrooms and showers for guest use, though reviews suggest the condition and accessibility of these facilities can vary and may require maintenance.
Playground: A children's playground is available, making the park more family-friendly and providing entertainment for younger visitors.
Fish Cleaning House: A dedicated fish cleaning hut is available for campers, a valuable amenity for anglers.
Kayak and Pedal Boat Rentals: For those who wish to explore the lake without their own watercraft, kayaks and pedal boats are available for rent.

Murvaul RV Park (Lake Murvaul Campground and Marina) boasts several features and highlights, primarily centered around its prime lakeside location and recreational opportunities, though some operational aspects have been noted by visitors.

Direct Lake Access and Excellent Fishing: The most significant highlight is its direct access to Lake Murvaul, known as an "excellent largemouth bass fishery" with good numbers of crappie and channel catfish. The presence of boat ramps and multiple fishing piers makes it a premier destination for anglers.
Scenic Beauty and Quiet Environment (Potentially): Nestled in the "Piney Woods of Deep East Texas," the park offers picturesque views of the lake and surrounding forest. While noise complaints have been noted in reviews, the overall setting is intended to be peaceful and natural, allowing for beautiful sunsets over the lake.
Variety of Accommodation Options: The park offers a good mix of RV sites, tent camping areas, and various cabin sizes (small, large, lodge, lakehouse), catering to different preferences and group sizes.
Family-Friendly Amenities: The presence of a clean swimming area, a playground, and picnic areas makes it suitable for families traveling with children, providing activities beyond just fishing.
Affordable Cabin Rentals: While specific cabin quality has been criticized, the listed price of $55-$85 per night for cabins (though an older review mentions $55, official site lists $85-$95 for small/large cabins) with waterfront access and basic kitchenettes can be an affordable option for non-RVers.
Pet-Friendly Policy: The park generally allows pets, though a non-refundable pet fee ($50) is applied for cabin rentals, indicating it accommodates visitors traveling with their animal companions.
Supportive Office Staff (for reservations): One review noted that "the office staff when we made the reservation and pick up the keys were very helpful and nice," suggesting that initial interactions regarding booking are positive.

For those interested in visiting Murvaul RV Park, or for current guests needing to get in touch, here is the primary contact information:

Address: 154 Co Rd 1839, Carthage, TX 75633, USA (also associated with 638 FM 1234, Carthage, TX 75633)

Phone: (903) 693-6562

Mobile Phone: +1 903-693-6562

Email: PCFWSD1@gmail.com (as listed on Lake Murvaul's official site)

It is highly recommended to call ahead for reservations, especially for cabins or during peak seasons. Based on some customer reviews, it would also be advisable to confirm check-in procedures, gate codes (if any), and the current operational status of all facilities (like restrooms/showers) prior to arrival to ensure a smoother experience. Communication via phone and email are the primary methods for inquiries and booking.

For Texans seeking a recreational getaway, Murvaul RV Park offers a compelling opportunity to experience the natural beauty and excellent fishing of Lake Murvaul. Its direct lake access, complete with boat ramps and fishing piers, makes it an ideal spot for anglers and those who enjoy water activities. The variety of accommodation options, from full hookup RV sites to cabins and tent camping, caters to a wide range of preferences and budgets, making it accessible for diverse groups of local users.

While some past visitor experiences highlight areas for improvement regarding immediate staff responsiveness and facility maintenance, the core appeal of the park – its connection to a vibrant lake ecosystem and the sheer potential for outdoor recreation – remains strong. For families, the playground and designated swimming area add value, making it a viable option for a multi-generational trip. Despite some operational challenges noted in reviews, the inherent natural beauty and the wealth of activities centered around Lake Murvaul mean that for Texans prioritizing lakeside leisure and a true East Texas outdoor experience, Murvaul RV Park provides a foundation for a memorable trip, especially with proactive communication regarding expectations and current conditions.

Murvaul RV Park Photos

Murvaul RV Park Location

Murvaul RV Park

Texas Panola County Carthage County Road 1839

154 Co Rd 1839, Carthage, TX 75633, USA

Murvaul RV Park Reviews

Arrived about 6pm. No one was in the office so we called the number....after calling 6 times, someone finally answered. He acted like he had no idea there was anyone coming in that night and seemed confused that we wanted to check in. After an awkward conversation, he told us to find our spot. After an exhaustive search for the lot number on our reservation, we gave up and took a lot with the same number and without the letter. Of the 4 bathrooms, 2 had signs they were out of order. 1 without a sign was unlocked when we arrived. It was fairly clean but quite run down with holes in the wall, flooring laid over old flooring etc. When my sweetheart attempted to use it a few minutes later, the door was locked. We attempted to get the code, but no one answered the phone and the voicemail box was full. The people in the reautrant were of little help. The grass was in desperate need of being cut. There were 3 docks. Nice during the day but without lights at night. It looked like there was a fish cleaning hut but I didn't investigate. There was a boat ramp that looked nice and a children's playground. The place was quiet. Due to the fact we weren't sure we were in the right slip, I didn't sleep well worried someone was going to wake us to move overnight. Sites are close together so if you're rig is big, you might have issues. It looked like the majority of the RVs there were long term rentals. We wanted to like this place as the lake looked nice and it is only 2 hours from home making it perfect for a quick get aways, but this was a HUGE miss. It felt as if we could have stayed overnight without anyone knowing or caring. I would suggest avoiding this one.
Jun 29, 2025 · Jennifer Kelly
My brother and I were looking for a new spot to go kayak fishing / camping. Murvaul offered Waterfront Cabins with showers and the kitchenette. $55 a night for a small cabin. Sounded great! It had some upside. Easy Waterfront access. Nice Fire Ring. Cabin was very small and poorly built (quite old). The wiring was mostly extension cord staple gunned underneath cabinets. Bathroom made cruise ship bathrooms look spacious. But ok. We we're certainly not expecting or needing anything luxurious. Day one I battle and slay a giant lizard that had apparently lived in one of the kitchen cabinets. I'm not talking a little gecko this thing was a footlong. Ok. No biggie. Day 2 wake up to see a mouse on the countertop. That's cute. We named him Mickey. Then later in the evening on day two I get out of the shower and happen to peek behind the toilet and what do I see? A nice sized rat snake. I named her Sally the silly snake. IMO overpriced for what it is truth be told. But I guess if you consider the petting zoo is free it might be worth it. I will also add a couple of other things they do not enforce the quiet times at all. Quiet time is 10 p.m. every night there was a large group a few cabins down from us that played very loud music and were basically having a big loud party each night until about 2 a.m. just didn't bother me I was so tired after a day on the water I just songs out with my new friends Mickey the Mouse and Sally the silly snake. However I'm sure this bothered several people but it was clear that no one was enforcing the quiet time. I will also add the bottom lock on the cabins is worthless even if you lock it it does not lock the door. All you have to do is match the door and it comes open so be sure to use the deadbolt as well. I will say the sun sets for beautiful the fishing was good the office staff when we made the reservation and pick up the keys were very helpful and nice. The sun sets from their little private fishing / Beach area were really nice. We enjoyed ourselves despite the critters and loud party people, and the well below code cabin but we won't be going back.
Oct 15, 2017 · nathen coomes
spent a week here and had my grandaugther 3 of those days her first time to go camping we had the best time
Feb 25, 2019 · tirrie dobos mcdonald
Never saw a dock like the picture but it's better looking than what they show good fishing but the fish r a little emancipated from the blue algae and the lake being turned upside down hope to see the oxygen level return to this lake. Great boat ramps
Aug 02, 2021 · Norman Sherman
Has boat launchs, picnic tables and swimming area. Very nice "T" shaped pier. Beautiful scenery and the park was really neat and clean. Cabins are for rent if you want. Camping area for tents also. Nice place for fishing. Public bathroom available.
Apr 23, 2019 · jerry warren