About PAT MAYSE WEST
Overview Pat Mayse West Campground is on the banks of its namesake lake in the Red River Basin in Lamar County, Texas. Easy access to developed park areas has made the lake a haven for families who enjoy camping, picnicking, swimming, boating, fishing and other outdoor recreation. Recreation The lake provides excellent opportunities for boating, swimming, and fishing. Anglers will find largemouth bass, white crappie, sunfish, striped bass and channel and flathead catfish, among other species. Hunting is a very popular activity in the area. The surrounding lands are managed for upland game and whitetail deer. Other species present include fox squirrel, gray squirrel, bobwhite quail, mourning dove, cottontail rabbit, raccoon and fox. Opossum, beaver, mink, skunk and nutria are also present. The lake also provides resting and feeding habitats for migratory waterfowl. A few miles north of the project area are the famed Red River Bottoms where waterfowl congregate in impressive numbers.Facilities This year-round campground offers 88 sites, 83 of which have electric hookups. Amenities include flush and pit toilets, showers, drinking water, a dump station and boat ramp.Natural Features Pat Mayse Lake covers almost 6,000 acres and has 67 miles of shoreline. It is situated among gently rolling grasslands and mixed hardwood forests studded with mature pines. Wildlife is abundant in the surrounding area.
How to Get There
From Paris, TX, take HWY 271 north for 12 miles to FM 906 W, then 4 miles to FM 197. Turn west for 3 miles to CR 35810, turn left 1 mile to CR 35800, then left into the park.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to PAT MAYSE WEST
Heading to PAT MAYSE WEST? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for PAT MAYSE WEST?
No central reservation system listed for PAT MAYSE WEST. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233579) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to PAT MAYSE WEST?
From Paris, TX, take HWY 271 north for 12 miles to FM 906 W, then 4 miles to FM 197. Turn west for 3 miles to CR 35810, turn left 1 mile to CR 35800, then left into the park.
How do I contact PAT MAYSE WEST?
You can reach the park at phone: 903-732-4956.
References & Official Resources
