Looking for dispersed camping near Padre Island National Seashore? Dispersed camping is the perfect way to get off the grid. Search dispersed campsites you've visited before, or discover new spots and read camper reviews.
Be aware of the tides and high tide line when choosing a beach campsite. Strong winds or storms can significantly elevate tides and create hazardous conditions along the Gulf Coast.
Welcome to South Beach at Padre Island National Seashore! This dispersed camping area offers a raw and authentic beach camping experience. If you're into fishing, sunbathing, bird watching, or photography, you'll find plenty to keep you busy here. On some evenings, you might even spot deer and coyotes emerging from the sand dunes to feed on seaweed and fish remains.
One of the standout features of this area is its accessibility. You can drive right onto the beach and find your perfect spot to set up camp. Just remember, this is primitive camping, so you'll need to bring your own water, food, and supplies. There are no picnic tables or sewer hookups, but you will find clean chemical toilets near the beach entrance and showers at the visitor's center.
Speaking of the visitor's center, it's a handy spot to stock up on ice and other essentials before heading down the beach. The center also has water, trash bins, and bathrooms. Fires are allowed, so you can dig a hole and enjoy a campfire right on the beach—just make sure to bring your own firewood.
For those who love bird watching and collecting seashells, this place is a paradise. With 63 miles of barrier island sand to explore, you can easily find a secluded spot away from the crowds. And if you're a holder of the "America the Beautiful" pass, camping here is free!
The nearby community of Padre Island offers restaurants and gas stations, and if you need more extensive supplies, Corpus Christi is just a short drive away. So pack your gear, prepare for some sand in your shoes, and get ready to enjoy the natural beauty of the Texas coast.
In Port ‘A’, it’s all about fun in the sun and sand! The beaches of Mustang Island are fantastically unique. There are eighteen miles of uninterrupted public shoreline, open for street legal vehicles and all things beachy! The warm Gulf waters and soft Texas sand are the perfect backdrop for a day full of beach, recreational activities, and nights highlighted with moonlight strolls.
Parking a car on the beach requires a $12 annual sticker that can be purchased at City Hall (710 W. Avenue A), our local grocery store Family Center IGA, from local convenience stores or from vendors located on the beach. The sticker allows the vehicle to park along the beach from the City Limit at Lantana Dr near Horace Cladwell Pier through Port Aransas Beach to the Kleberg County line (south of Bob Hall Pier) making it valid in Port Aransas and Corpus Christi. 58.
An additional $40.00 permit is required for Port Aransas camping.
Small campfires 3 ft. x 3ft. are allowed on the beach.
$14 - $18 / night
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Padre Island National Seashore?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Padre Island National Seashore is North Beach — Padre Island National Seashore with a 4.4-star rating from 14 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Padre Island National Seashore?
TheDyrt.com has all 4 dispersed camping locations near Padre Island National Seashore, with real photos and reviews from campers.
