Sea Rim State Park offers diverse camping options near the Texas-Louisiana border, approximately 90 miles from Holly Beach, Louisiana. The park spans 4,141 acres of marshland and 5.2 miles of Gulf shoreline. Campers encounter both saltwater and freshwater ecosystems, with average summer temperatures reaching 90°F and winter lows around 45°F. Gates close at 10 PM with no entry or exit until morning.
What to do
Kayak marsh trails: Sea Rim State Park provides a 1.79-mile paddling trail through marsh habitats that connects to the 10-mile Sabine Paddling Trail. "Absolutely beautiful area with diverse environment to explore. Great kayaking trail map and recommendations from the rangers on where to go. There is hiking as well," notes Lynn G.
Beach exploration: Drive directly onto the beach at Sea Rim State Park to find your own primitive camping spot. "If you pull onto the beach and drive either on the west or east to beach you find a spot in the sand that you really like that can be your campsite. This is one of the few state parks that really does have primitive camping on the beach just yards from the seashore," shares Joshua H.
Wildlife viewing: The nature trails offer opportunities to observe local wildlife in their natural habitats. "The nature trail over the marsh was really cool, we saw lots of alligators and birds," reports Vanessa L., who visited the park with her family.
What campers like
Accessibility to water: Campers appreciate how close camping areas are to both marsh and ocean environments. "The beach is few hundred feet away. There's power and water. The site is level. Is sooo nice," explains Evelyn O. about the developed camping area.
Privacy and space: Sea Rim State Park provides spacious sites with minimal crowding. "They had the BEST staff. Clean facilities. Tons of privacy," writes Angela F. about her stay at the park.
Cabin accommodations: For those seeking more comfort, the park offers cabins with modern amenities. "We got a cabin and it was really nice: AC, unfurnished kitchen, comfy bunkbeds, screened deck (bring your own kitchen supplies and bedding)," shares Kim B., noting that these structures were rebuilt after hurricane damage.
What you should know
Insect preparation: Mosquitoes are extremely abundant, particularly at dusk. "An army of vampire mosquitos descend on you and your pets. We were enjoying being outside and we had to get into our trailer. Spent a while killing them," warns Evelyn O. despite giving the park a 5-star rating.
Access restrictions: Claiborne West Park near Vidor, Texas has experienced closures with limited information available. "No signage for where to camp, roads closed as well as the office," reports Patrick B., suggesting contacting parks directly before planning visits.
Storm vulnerability: Beach camping areas have limited protection from weather events. "Not a great beach to camp on in stormy weather. No rock/sea wall to slow the surge or wave action," notes Kelly E., who recommends the paved RV camping area during unstable weather.
Tips for camping with families
Bug protection strategy: Families with children should bring multiple types of insect repellent. "I have small children, and don't like them getting eaten. We decided to leave a day early because of the mosquitoes. You couldn't even sit outside in the evening and enjoy the ocean breeze," cautions Vanessa L.
Shell collecting opportunities: Sea Rim State Park beaches offer abundant seashells for collection. "The beach was ok, not the nicest I've ever seen but the kids loved it. Lots of shells and treasures to be found. And very few other people around," writes Vanessa L.
Equipment preparation: The coastal location requires additional planning. "Make sure to bring enough stuff to tie everything down because there will always be a coastal breeze," advises Joshua H., noting that securing gear is essential with children.
Tips from RVers
Check entry times: RVers should plan arrivals before park closure. "I've been camping around the country for four months straight now and this is the only park that I've encountered that literally locks their gate at night. There is no way in, no way out until the next morning," cautions Katie M.
Pad quality: The developed camping area provides level pads suitable for recreational vehicles. "RV camp with paved pads is nice. Reserve far in advance if you want to see bird migration activity," suggests Kelly E.
Industrial surroundings: Be prepared for the contrast between natural areas and nearby industrial development. "Having to pass by the refinery on the way in to the state park, the campgrounds make up for it by being right along the water with every camping necessity for a night on the beach," notes Maximille G.
Note: Equestrian camping near Holly Beach, Louisiana is limited. While nearby state parks offer camping facilities, dedicated horse camping options are scarce. Travelers seeking horseback riding facilities and equestrian-friendly camping near Holly Beach should contact park offices directly for current availability and regulations regarding horse accommodations.
