South Padre Island Beach Camping
South Padre Island camping on the beach is as good as it gets!
From here you can experience stunning sunrises and sunsets and have a relaxing time on the beach.
Tent camping on South Padre Island is our favorite activity but there are also many RV parks which are perfect for all types of equipment.
Some of the top South padre Island RV parks on the beach include Isla Blanca Park and Andy Bowie Park.
From Beach Access #5 to any place north of the island, camping is free.
You will need to pay for a permit to drive on the beach.
The first couple of miles is good for 2WD vehicles while only 4WD vehicles are safe the further north you go.
You can have bonfires here too.
What Is It Like To Camp On The Beach
Camping on the beach is generally much simpler than camping in extreme conditions like cold weather or in the mountains in a remote location. For a more relaxing style of camping where campers can take in views from around the campfire without unneeded exertion, camping on the beach cannot be beaten.
Crystal Beach And Bolivar Peninsula
Looking for somewhere you can camp directly on the beach? Take the ferry from Galveston to the Bolivar Peninsula and park your car or camper anywhere along the 27 miles of beaches of Crystal Beach and the Bolivar Peninsula.
This spot is incredibly unique and lets you park almost right up on the water. Just be careful of where you set up to avoid the water getting close during high-tide. Campfires are allowed but you may struggle to get them started on windier nights.
As far as restrooms, there are porta-potties lining the peninsula that you can use. There are also trash bings setup you can use to dispose of trash and help keep the beaches clean.
Note: All vehicles parked on Bolivar Peninsula must show a Bolivar Beach parking pass. Those can be purchased at just about any store on the peninsula.
You May Like: Camping World Rv And Outdoors
Great Tent Camping At Galveston Island State Park
Last week, for the second straight year, my wife and I camped at the beach-side campsites at Galveston Island State Park on the western side of Galveston Island. We have visited a number of Texas State Parks but this one is our favorite. We dont fish so we prefer the beach-side sites and we have always been able to rent a unit well suited to our needs as tent campers. We always get a campsite with water and electricity and near restroom and shower facilities. Our campsite is close enough to the beach to easily hear the surf at night and the beach is easily accessed via a short path through the dunes. The restrooms and showers are centrally located and are clean and well maintained. Each campsite has a sheltered picnic table and a fire ring for cooking or campfires, all conveniently arranged to facilitate ease of access. The bay side of Galveston Island State Park also has two camping areas as well as a nature center, nature observation areas, fishing and crabbing areas, and hiking and kayaking trails. We have had two wonderful camping experiences at Galveston Island State Park. The Park is also a great place to watch birds and take pictures of them and the surf. The only minor negative I should mention is the presence of grass burrs in the campsites. However, even with grass burrs, Galveston Island State Park is a Texas Treasure and we certainly plan to return
South Beach Padre Island National Seashore
One of the best Corpus Christi beach camping sites is the South Beach in Padre Island National Seashore. You can camp on the beach and enjoy beautiful sunrises and sunsets on the beach with no one to disturb you.
Similar to North Beach, this beach doesnt have any amenities or hookups so, you need to prepare accordingly. Carry all your camping equipment, food, and other necessities so that you dont have to return too soon from the beach.
If you are planning to camp for a long time on this beach, then the dumpster and the chemical toilet at the entrance to this beach can come in handy.
One of the best things about this beach is that it offers over 60 miles of coastline where the visitors can drive to find the perfect place to set up their camps. So, if you want to enjoy beach camping in Texas, then this beach is one of the best sites to do so.
Also Check: Santa Barbara County Parks Camping
Malaquite Beach/ Malaquite Campground
This island is one of the most beautiful and secluded campsites in the state and a real treat if youre lucky enough to come to visit.
Malaquite Beach is labeled as semi-primitive and is tucked away in the dunes yet provides a gorgeous view of the Gulf of Mexico. This is another island in which you will need ferry access to enter but never fear, its a free ferry ride.
Tent campers are welcome to set up right along the beach. Each site has a maximum capacity of two tents, two vehicles, and eight people, so it does have accommodation for a group. Keep in mind this site runs on a first come first serve basis.
North Beach At Padre Island Corpus Christi
Corpus Christi is oceanfront camping to the fullest. This beach reaches the largest stretch of an undeveloped barrier island in the world. In addition, you will have a full allowance to drive along the beach.
North Beach at Padre Island, with the gorgeous area of Corpus Christi included, is very clean, well maintained, and a perfect site for camping directly on the beach. If however, you are still interested in a camping ground you will find some a short distance away. You cant go wrong with this beautiful location.
Don’t Miss: Ocean City Maryland Camping Resorts
South Beach At Padre Island
Another great place for some Texas beach camping, right off the southern tip of Texas, you will find the beautiful secluded South Beach at Padre Island.
This island beach will require a 4WD vehicle to get to unless you choose to camp on the first few miles of the beach.This is a free camping location on the beach which is a bonus cost-effective option!
What Beaches Can You Camp On In Texas
Camping on the beach at Mustang Island Campground in Texas
There are 350 miles of beaches you can camp on in Texas, including some incredible options at Padre Island National Seashore such as North Beach Campground, Yarborough Pass Campground, Malaquite Campground, Bird Island Basin Campground, and South Beach Campground to name only a few! While the Lone Star State has a strong camping culture, not enough people are aware of its beach camping options so close to Houston, San Antonio, Galveston, and Corpus Christi.
Padre Island National Seashore is the worlds largest barrier island. You can explore the coastline, dunes, and tidal flats along the islands 70-mile radius, and get a closer look at its 380 bird species. Areas within the park require a camping permit, which can be found at the kiosks at the entrances.
Many Texas beach campgrounds are primitive and offer very few amenities, however if you prefer camping and glamping near the beach with more amenities such as toilets, showers, and WiFi, be sure to check out the many unique Texas beach camping options on Hipcamp and scroll down to see photos of some of our top picks.
Read Also: Salt Lake City Tent Camping
Pioneer Rv Beach Resort
Looking for Port Aransas RV Parks on the beach for your camping trip? Then, look no more. Pioneer RV Beach Resort in Port Aransas is one of the premier RV parks to enjoy in Texas.
For luxury beach camping in Texas, Pioneer RV Beach Resort is perfect. It is surrounded by sand dunes and offers an RV parking area in front of a remote beach on the Gulf of Mexico.
Pioneer RV Resort, Port Aransas features over 363 full RV hookup sites and 10 cabins that visitors can reserve for their camping trip. They also offer all kinds of amenities here including concrete pads, fish cleaning houses, bathhouses, on-site grocery store, gas, WiFi, game room, swimming pools, hot tubs, and more.
From beachcombing to fishing, there are a lot of activities to enjoy at this RV park in Port Aransas. If you are looking for a comfortable camping trip in Texas, then Pioneer RV Beach Resort is a great choice!
The Best Texas Beach Camping Options At Padre Island National Seashore
1. North Beach Campground: For camping done the ol fashioned way, the completely free North Beach Campground site is a great option. Located along the Gulf of Mexico, the site invites tents and RVs to mount up wherever they see fit. During the summer, you might even spot a baby turtle or ten.
2. Yarborough Pass Campground: This isolated campground is free. The catch? You have to work for it. Yarborough Pass can only be accessed through the 4-wheel drive area of South Beach and by boating down the Laguna Madre. The nearest amenities are 12 miles away, so make sure you come prepared for an au naturel experience.
3. Malaquite Campground: Catch the baby sea turtle release and bask in the comforts of available showers and toilets in this semi-primitive location. This campground holds an $8 fee per night and can be paid only in cash or via check.
4. Bird Island Basin Campground: Offering tent and RV camping for $5 per day , The Bird Island Basin Campground is perfect for water-centric activities like windsurfing, kayaking, and fishing.
5. South Beach Campground: This free primitive site is open to both tents and RVs. It runs along the Gulf of Mexico, from the end of Closed Beach to Mansfield Channel.
You May Like: Camping World California Rv Sales
Prep For The Heat Sun And Mosquitoes
Sunscreen is necessary on Texas beaches year round.
You may be able to forget sunscreen and survive from November to January, but we do not recommend this.
Make sure to pack a high quality waterproof sunscreen with high SPF and remember to reapply it every few hours.
Pack a kid-friendly sunscreen for the little ones.
Mosquitoes are abundant on the Texas Coast during the summer think huge swarms that keep coming back!
Carrying an insect repellent is a must if you want to sleep soundly at night.
What Beaches Can You Camp On In Galveston
Best Beach Camping in Galveston, TX East Beach Cantina & Rentals. 5.4 mi. Beaches. Stewart Beach. 2.9 mi. Beaches. Galveston Island State Park. 10.9 mi. Beaches. The Texas City Dike. 8.5 mi. 33 reviews. Jamaica Beach RV Park. 12.8 mi. RV Parks. Dellanera RV Park. 5.0 mi. RV Parks. Sandpiper RV Resort. 2.9 mi. Lazy Pelican RV Park. 14.2 mi.
Don’t Miss: Can You Rent Camping Gear
Padre Island/ Beach Bird Island Basin Campground
Last but not least for some Texas beach camping is Padre Island. This campsite location is a short distance away from the boat ramp on the waters of the Laguna Madre in the beautiful Padre Island.
The available sites will offer amazing activities such as windsurfing, kayaking, boating, bird watching, and fishing in addition to the beautiful ocean. If you plan your trip in the summer you may get lucky enough to participate in the sea turtle hatching releases.
At Beach Bird Island Basin Campground you will find both tent camping and RV sites but this location is dry camping only. This campground runs on a first-come-first-served basis so plan accordingly!
Best Places For Beach Camping In Texas
January 19, 2022// by Texas Travel 365//
Are you planning to go beach camping in Texas? Then, we have got you covered! In this article, we will be sharing with you the best beach campsites in Texas.
Texas is a huge state that is filled with beautiful attractions and weekend getaways for visitors to enjoy. From state parks to national parks, to camping beaches in Texas, you can find it all here.
One of the best things about beach camping on the gulf coast of Texas is that you have so many beach towns to visit. With over 350 miles of coastline, you can choose to enjoy a long vacation or a short weekend camping trip with your family to any of these places in Texas.
Texas beach camping is the perfect way to enjoy an outdoor adventure with your friends or family. You can sleep under the stars, swim in the water, relax on the beach, and do so much more.
So, if you are confused about where to go beach camping in Texas, we have listed down the 9 best camping beaches in Texas. This list includes camping beaches that offer both primitive camping and RV parking site, allowing you to choose the perfect beach camping experience for yourself.
Don’t Miss: Best Places To Go Camping In Nc
Can You Camp On The Beach In Bolivar
Camping is allowed anywhere on the beach on Bolivar Peninsula. Being able to drive on the hard-packed sand makes it easy to just pick a spot and set up your tent or deploy the jacks on your RV. A handful of porta-potties serve as bathrooms, and the Gulf Coast Market, also known as The Big Store, has public restrooms.
Mcfaddin National Wildlife Refuge Beach
This location borders the McFaddin National Wildlife Refuge and can be found along the western coast.
If youre a bird lover, this is a wonderful option for you! You can take the opportunity to bird-watch in the observation blinds at the refuge. Different types of waterbirds thrive here in this protected marsh.
At McFaddin National Wildlife Refuge Beach you will also find dry camping. Nothing is better than hearing the sounds of the water birds along with the crashing waves in this secluded area. The best part is this is another free camping location and a perfect spot for those who enjoy primitive camping.
Don’t Miss: Tent Camping Texas Hill Country
Padre Island National Seashore Camping
Padre Island National Seashore Camping is one of our favorite summer activities.
The national park has 4 campgrounds and you can camp on the beach at 2 of them.
You can choose a campsite tucked besides the sand dunes and have fun sleeping under the stars at night.
Camping at Padre Island is really an amazing experience: the water is pristine and if you time it right, you can attend a Turtle hatchlings release.
Visitors need to pay the national park entry fees but the campsites are free.
You can pick really secluded campsites, making Padre Island one of our favorite camping destination in Texas.
Beach camping on Padre Island is the perfect relaxing getaway as there is no cell service near many of the camping areas and you can enjoy a digital and social media detox.
Heres your complete guide to beach camping at Padre Island National Seashore.
North Beach
North Beach is our recommended camping area if you dont have a 4WD vehicle.
The beach area is just 5 miles long but less popular so it is easy to find a spot on here.
While having a 4WD vehicle to drive on the beach is highly recommended, if you are going to try with a 2WD then North Beach is your best bet.
We have seen many sedans driving and camping in this part of Padre Island National Seashore.
The access road to the campsites is by the entrance / near the only cell tower in this area.
Then you can just drive along the beach road and select a campsite.
South Beach
South Beach is our personal favorite camping area.
Tent Camping In Galveston Texas
Just off the coast of Texas in the Gulf of Mexico about an hour south of Houston is Galveston Island. This 5,000 year-old barrier island was once home to a fierce tribe of cannibals a base for some of historys most notorious pirates like Henry Morgan, Captain Kidd, Blackbeard and Jean Laffite a haven for smugglers particularly during the prohibition years and a magnet for hurricanes. But the old salty city, once the largest seaport in Texas, is still a haven for low key relaxation with miles of pristine beaches and the 2,000 acre Galveston Island State Park which draws thousands of campers annually to experience the various aspects of the upper gulf coast barrier island ecosystems it contains.
Also Check: Best Camping Near Bend Oregon
Sunday Beach At Matagorda Island
Located on Matagorda Island on the upper Texas coast there is a beach called Sunday Beach. You can get away from it all and camp on an Isolated private beach. How dreamy is that?
However, there is a catch to camping at Sunday Beach, you will need to arrive there by private boat. Once youve arrived youll be surrounded by peace and the ocean.
Times Temperatures And Other Useful Information
Galveston Island State Park is open year round. Wintertime temperatures average about 46 degrees Fahrenheit and Summer temperatures top at about 86 degrees. Due to the popularity of the park, particularly during the busy season from March to October, campsite reservations are highly recommended. Nightly rates apply at all campsites, although weekly and monthly rates are available during the off-season from November through February at some sites. Only eight people and two vehicles are allowed on each campsite. Galveston is subject to tropical storms and hurricanes during hurricane season from June through November, and the park closes due to predicted weather.
References
Read Also: Best Camping In The Northeast
Andy Bowie Park South Padre Island
One of the best South Padre Island beach camping sites to explore, Andy Bowie County Park offers 20 miles of beachfront access for visitors to enjoy.
You need to pay an entrance fee to enter this park and then you can camp anywhere on the beach here. There are full RV hookup sites and tent sites where visitors can set up their camps to spend the night on the beach.
Apart from that, this park also offers many camping amenities such as picnic and BBQ pavilions, food concessions, beach rental concessions, fishing areas, and more. There are many restrooms and showers in the area too that you can access during your stay here.
With beach access, visitors can also go swimming here and make the most of their camping trip in this park. One of the best things about this park is that it offers peace and solitude to the visitors as there are fewer crowds here, especially in the fall season.
So, if you want to enjoy camping on the beach in South Padre Island, then Andy Bowie County Park is a perfect choice.