Pat Mayse East - Pat Mayse Lake

The crunch of gravel under tires and the scent of warm pine greet you as you turn onto Pat Mayse E Park Road, the entrance to Pat Mayse East campground by Pat Mayse Lake in Arthur City, Texas. The rustle of armadillos scurrying through dry leaves and the occasional neigh of horses nearby set a lively yet laid-back rhythm. This is a place where the hum of city life fades into the background, replaced by the gentle sounds of nature and the occasional splash from the lake’s swimming areas. The uneven ground beneath your rig might require some extra leveling, but it’s a small price for the open sky and spacious sites that beckon both campers and equestrians alike.

Spend your day weaving through the horse trails carved carefully through the woods, where the cedar and oak stand tall alongside paths cleared enough for riders but still wild enough to feel like an adventure. The equestrian loop offers wider, longer sites with sturdy fencing, letting horses roam safely close to camp while their owners relax. For those who prefer water to trails, two separate swimming areas await—one for people and another with a sandy beach reserved for horses, where the animals can cool off after a long ride. Anglers and boaters will appreciate the ramp and ample parking that provide easy access to Pat Mayse Lake’s quiet waters, and a water fill and dump station just outside the campground keeps RVs running smoothly.

Pat Mayse East’s amenities lean into simplicity with a clean vault toilet illuminated by a light, a rarity that campers appreciate during evening visits. Water and electric hookups are available, though some sites require a short walk to reach the water connection, and leveling your motorhome can be a challenge on the gently rolling terrain. Despite these quirks, the campground hosts—Ron, Tim, and his wife—earn warm mentions for their attentiveness and local knowledge, making newcomers feel right at home. Horse pens here are well-maintained, allowing for both convenience and peace of mind when your four-legged companions aren’t exploring the trails.

As twilight settles, the sounds shift to the night chorus of critters and the occasional shuffle of armadillos prowling campsites in search of food. These persistent visitors add a touch of wild unpredictability, reminding campers that here, nature writes the rules. Visitors keep coming back not just for the lake or trails, but for the genuine hospitality and the feeling that, while your rig might lean a