Outdoor Things to Do Near Gilmer, TX
East Texas is greener than the rest of the state, and Gilmer sits right in the heart of the piney woods. Whether you're into hardcore off-roading, peaceful lake fishing, or just getting outside for a breath of fresh air, the outdoor options here go way beyond what you'd expect from a town this size.
Quick Comparison
| Activity | Location | Skill Level | Best Season |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barnwell Mountain OHV | Gilmer | Beginner to extreme | Spring, fall |
| Lake Fork fishing | 30 min east | All levels | Year-round |
| Lake Gilmer kayaking | Gilmer | Beginner | Spring–fall |
| Barnwell hiking | Gilmer | Easy to moderate | Year-round |
| Winery visits | Near town | Easy | Year-round |
| National Forest camping | Near town | All levels | Spring–fall |
Barnwell Mountain Recreation Area
Must-try: OHV trails, hiking, camping Phone: (903) 797-4066 Cost: $5/person (hiking/biking), $15–30/person (ORV riding, member vs. non-member). Kids 6 and under free.
The crown jewel of Gilmer outdoor recreation. Over 60 miles of off-road trails for Jeeps, ATVs, UTVs, and dirt bikes, plus 25+ miles of hiking and mountain biking trails. The terrain ranges from easy scenic routes to extreme rock crawling.
Camping options include primitive tent sites, RV hookups, bunkhouses, and cabins. Restrooms and showers are available.
Insider tip: Download offline maps before you go. Cell service disappears once you hit the trails.
Lake Fork
Must-try: Trophy bass fishing Distance: 30 minutes east of Gilmer Known as: The "Bass Fishing Capital of Texas"
Lake Fork is serious water. Over 27,000 acres, 15 of the top 20 Texas bass caught here, and a reputation that draws anglers from across the country. If you fish, you know this lake. If you don't, hire a guide and learn.
The lake also offers crappie fishing, catfish, and sunfish. Marinas rent boats and sell bait.
Insider tip: Spring (March–May) is peak bass season. Book a guide in advance — the good ones fill up fast.
Lake Gilmer
Must-try: Kayaking, bank fishing, eagle watching Location: Gilmer city limits Cost: Free
A quieter alternative to Lake Fork. Lake Gilmer is a 1,000-acre reservoir with calm waters perfect for kayaking and canoeing. No gas motors allowed — electric trolling motors only — which keeps the atmosphere peaceful.
Bald eagles nest nearby in winter, and the shaded picnic areas are perfect for a lazy afternoon.
Insider tip: Launch from the north shore for the best access and parking.
Wineries & Vineyards
Must-try: Wine tastings, vineyard walks Options: Los Pinos Winery, Rowdy Creek Ranch Winery
Both wineries are within a short drive of Gilmer and offer tastings in scenic settings. The vineyard walks are an outdoor activity in themselves — rolling hills, pine forests, and rows of grapevines.
Insider tip: Pack a picnic for Rowdy Creek Ranch. The grounds are made for spreading a blanket and staying a while.
National Forest Camping
Must-try: Dispersed camping, stargazing Location: Surrounding Gilmer (National Forest land)
The area around Gilmer includes National Forest land with free dispersed camping. No reservations, no amenities — just you, a tent, and the woods. This is the real deal for campers who want solitude.
Insider tip: Check current fire restrictions before building a campfire. East Texas can get dry in summer.
Outdoor Activity Pricing
| Activity | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Barnwell Mountain (hiking/biking) | $5/person |
| Barnwell Mountain (ORV, non-member) | $30/person |
| Barnwell Mountain (ORV, member) | $15/person |
| Lake Fork (boat rental) | $200–400/day |
| Lake Fork (guide) | $300–500/day |
| Lake Gilmer (kayak rental) | $30–50/day |
| Winery tasting | $15–25 |
| National Forest camping | Free |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where's the best fishing near Gilmer? Lake Fork for trophy bass. Lake Gilmer for casual bank fishing and kayaking.
Can I camp for free near Gilmer? Yes. National Forest land allows dispersed camping at no charge. Barnwell Mountain has paid camping with amenities.
What's the best outdoor activity for beginners? Lake Gilmer kayaking or Barnwell Mountain easy hiking trails. Both are low-skill, high-reward.
Is Barnwell Mountain good for mountain biking? Yes. The multi-use trails are open to bikes, and the terrain is varied enough to keep it interesting.
Last updated: July 2026