TMTC Barnwell Mountain Rec

For Texans with a passion for off-road adventure, TMTC Barnwell Mountain Rec in Gilmer is more than just a campground – it's an exhilarating playground. Nestled high atop the Barnwell Mountains of East Texas, this sprawling 1,850-acre property is a dedicated haven for motorcycle, ATV, and OHV enthusiasts. Since its opening in 2000, Barnwell Mountain has cultivated a reputation as one of the premier motorized off-road parks in the state, offering a dynamic and challenging experience for riders of all skill levels.

This destination isn't just about the thrills of the trails; it’s also about providing a comfortable and well-equipped base for your adventures. Whether you're a seasoned off-roader looking for a serious challenge or a beginner eager to experience the excitement for the first time, Barnwell Mountain Rec is designed to cater to your needs. The park’s commitment to varied terrain, clear signage, and a friendly atmosphere ensures that every visit is a memorable one, often leading to a passionate "bug" for off-roading that keeps visitors coming back for more. It's a place where you can genuinely have "one HELL of a time," as one thrilled visitor noted, embracing the fun even when the conditions get challenging.

TMTC Barnwell Mountain Rec is strategically located at 6284 State Hwy 155, Gilmer, TX 75644, USA. This prime East Texas location makes it highly accessible for off-road enthusiasts from across the state and beyond. Situated five miles north of Gilmer on State Highway 155, the park benefits from easy access via a well-maintained state highway, ensuring a smooth journey for vehicles towing trailers and off-road equipment.

While the park offers an immersive natural environment, its proximity to Gilmer means that amenities and services are never far away. The town of Gilmer, known for its friendly small-town charm and annual East Texas Yamboree, provides convenient access to groceries, fuel, dining options, and other necessities. This blend of remote adventure and nearby convenience makes Barnwell Mountain an ideal spot for extended stays. Additionally, its location within the wider East Texas region means it's part of a beautiful area rich with outdoor recreational opportunities, including lakes and natural landscapes, perfect for those who enjoy exploring beyond the trails.

TMTC Barnwell Mountain Rec provides a comprehensive range of services and facilities tailored to enhance the off-road and camping experience. The park is well-equipped to support both day-use visitors and those planning overnight stays:

• Diverse Camping Options: The park offers multiple camping choices to suit various preferences. This includes primitive campsites scattered throughout the park for a more rustic experience, electric camp sites with 30-amp hookups for RVs, and premium RV spaces that boast 50-amp electrical connections, water, and sewer hookups.

• Cabin and Bunkhouse Rentals: For those without an RV or tent, or simply desiring more comfort, Barnwell Mountain offers six cabins and five bunkhouses available for nightly rentals. These units provide basic comforts like heat and air conditioning, ensuring a comfortable stay.

• Restroom and Shower Facilities: Clean and well-maintained bathroom and shower facilities are available near the main office and pavilion areas, providing essential amenities for all campers, including those in primitive sites.

• Air Station: An on-site air station is provided near the pavilion, allowing off-roaders to easily air up their tires after a day on the trails, a crucial convenience for motorized vehicle users.

• Dump Station: A dump station is available for RVs, ensuring proper waste disposal for guests staying in RV sites.

• Pavilion: A large, covered pavilion offers a communal gathering space, ideal for groups, events, or simply relaxing in the shade.

• On-Site Management: The park is managed by the Texas Motorized Trails Coalition (TMTC) and often has on-site staff, ensuring that facilities are maintained and assistance is available.

TMTC Barnwell Mountain Rec stands out due to its unique features and highlights, primarily focused on providing a top-tier off-road experience alongside comfortable camping amenities:

• Extensive Off-Road Trails: The park boasts an impressive 1,850 acres dedicated to motorized off-road fun. This includes over 27 miles of single-track trails specifically for dirt bikes, and many more miles of challenging trails suitable for ATVs, UTVs, and other OHVs.

• Varied Difficulty Levels: Barnwell Mountain prides itself on offering trails for every skill level. From a 16-mile "Adventure Trail" designed for less demanding rides perfect for dirt bikes and ATVs, to more challenging routes for experienced UTV and OHV riders, there's something for everyone, from novice to pro.

• Well-Marked and Maintained Trails: The trail system is meticulously mapped and rated with clear signage at trailheads, ensuring riders can navigate safely and choose paths appropriate for their skill level. This commitment to maintenance is driven by the all-volunteer TMTC membership.

• Scenic East Texas Setting: Located high atop the Barnwell Mountains, the park offers a beautiful and unique setting within the East Texas landscape, providing scenic views and a true immersion in nature during your off-road adventures.

• Friendly Staff: Numerous reviews commend the park's staff for being "super friendly," contributing to a welcoming and positive atmosphere for all visitors.

• Competitive Pricing: Guests have noted that the pricing for park access is "good pricing compared to the other parks in Texas," making it an attractive option for regular off-roaders.

• Group Outing Friendly: The park encourages and can accommodate group outings, making it a great destination for clubs and organized rides.

TMTC Barnwell Mountain Rec operates with a transparent fee structure designed to support the park as a non-profit endeavor. While specific "promotions" in the traditional sense might not be consistently advertised, they do offer structured rates and occasional benefits:

• TMTC Membership Benefits: Becoming a member of the Texas Motorized Trails Coalition (TMTC) offers financial advantages. Members pay a reduced daily park usage fee ($15.00/Family IRS dependents) compared to non-members ($30.00/Each).

• Gate Fee Waivers: Gate fees are waived for active military visitors with identification and for children six (6) and under. Additionally, visitors camping overnight may have their park use fees waived for the day they arrive after 5:00 PM, only being responsible for camping fees.

• Transparent Pricing: The park has clear fee structures for primitive camping ($10.00/night), electric campsites ($25.00/night), premium campsites ($35.00/night), bunkhouses ($50.00/night), and cabins (ranging from $65.00 to $95.00/night). All fees directly support the park's operations and maintenance.

It's always recommended to visit their official website or contact the park directly for the most current fee schedule, reservation policies, and any seasonal offers or event-specific rates.

To plan your visit, make reservations, or get more information about TMTC Barnwell Mountain Rec, you can use the following contact details:

• Address: 6284 State Hwy 155, Gilmer, TX 75644, USA

• Phone: (903) 797-4066

• Mobile Phone: +1 903-797-4066

It's advisable to check their website for park hours and any potential weather-related closures, especially during periods of inclement weather, as park access can be restricted for safety.

For Texans with a passion for the outdoors and, more specifically, motorized off-road sports, TMTC Barnwell Mountain Rec is an absolute must-visit. Its suitability for locals stems from several key aspects that resonate deeply with the Texan spirit of adventure and community.

Firstly, the sheer scale and diversity of the trail system are unparalleled. With 1,850 acres offering everything from technical rock crawling to scenic adventure trails, it caters to all levels of experience, ensuring that whether you're a seasoned "wheeler" or just starting to get "the bug," there's a challenge waiting for you. This wide range of difficulties, coupled with clear signage, makes it a safe and accessible environment for skill development and family fun. The enthusiastic reviews about having "one HELL of a time" are a testament to the park's ability to deliver exhilarating experiences.

Secondly, the friendly and dedicated staff, as frequently highlighted by visitors, fosters a welcoming atmosphere. This personal touch, combined with well-maintained facilities including clean bathrooms, enhances the overall experience and makes visitors feel at home. The competitive pricing, especially when considering the sheer amount of terrain and amenities available, makes it a valuable recreational asset for Texas residents.

Finally, its location in Gilmer offers the perfect balance. While immersing you in the wild beauty of East Texas, it's conveniently close enough to local towns for supplies and services. This means less time worrying about logistics and more time enjoying the trails and the camaraderie of fellow enthusiasts. TMTC Barnwell Mountain Rec isn't just a place to ride; it's a community hub for the Texas off-road scene, promising unforgettable adventures and a return to the simple pleasure of a "plain ol' good time."