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Dispersed Camping

Matagorda Beach Dispersed Camping

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Matagorda Beach Dispersed Camping is located near the Gulf of Mexico, featuring flat coastal terrain with sandy stretches. Temperatures range from the 50s in winter to the 90s in summer. Visitors can explore the nearby Matagorda Bay Nature Park and the Colorado River, offering opportunities for fishing and birdwatching.

Fee Info

Walking onto the beach to camp is free - no permit needed.

If you want to drive on the beach - You will need an annual $10 Matagorda County Beach Vehicle Permit in order to drive onto Matagorda Beach. You can buy one at most local merchants or at the beach entrance during the summer.

There are stiff fines if you are caught driving on the beach without a permit

https://matagordabeach.org/matagorda-beach-vehicle-permits/

Reservation Info

Free to camp - no reservations $10 fee only if you want to drive on the beach

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Location

Matagorda Beach Dispersed Camping is located in Texas

Detail location of campground

Directions

There are two entrances to Matagorda beach. To get to the main beach entrance from Matagorda, go south on FM2031 for approximately 7 miles. Turn left onto the public beach access road (there is a sign). Drive until the road ends at the beach. You can drive onto the beach or park in the parking lot at the entrance. To get to Jetty Park, continue straight on FM2031 past the beach access road. FM2031 dead ends into Jetty Park next to the Matagorda Nature Park. There is a beach entrance on the west side of the parking lot. To access the beach east of Jetty Park you can drive under the Pier when the tide is low enough. Watch your clearance when you go through.

Coordinates

28.598251686158267 N
95.97729817700211 W

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Connectivity

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Drive Time

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Connectivity

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  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
    Verified by 1 user
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Good Coverage
    Verified by 12 users
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Excellent Coverage
    Verified by 1 user

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Site Types

  • Dispersed

Features

For Campers

  • Phone Service
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

DISPERSED CAMPING

Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.


PERMIT might be REQUIRED

We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Matagorda Beach Dispersed Camping needs a permit.

Contact

General Info


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1 Review

Reviewed Feb. 10, 2022

Matagorda Beach Camping

This is camping in the sand on Matagorda Beach.

No accommodations. Will need 4 x 4 to get out and down the beach.

Be sure to get a beach parking permit from the gas station before crossing the bridge, costs $10.

Plenty of driftwood to gather for huge bonfires that we do every time we go.

Very secluded, usually no one passes by if you down far enough.

It’s the Gulf, so the water is yeah…but lots of shells if you are into that, and even surfing back down near beach entrance.

Just a great spot to go get away from it all and camp in the sand and make a huge bonfire.

Siteno sites, dispersed tent camping
Month of VisitJanuary
  • Review photo of Matagorda Beach Dispersed Camping by NickFromTexas , February 10, 2022
  • Review photo of Matagorda Beach Dispersed Camping by NickFromTexas , February 10, 2022
  • Review photo of Matagorda Beach Dispersed Camping by NickFromTexas , February 10, 2022
  • (6) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you need a permit for camping at Matagorda Beach?

Yes, you need a beach parking permit to camp at Matagorda Beach. The permit costs $10 and can be purchased at the local gas station before crossing the bridge to the beach. This permit is required for all vehicles accessing the beach camping areas. Make sure to display your permit properly to avoid any issues during your stay.

Can you camp directly on Matagorda Beach?

Yes, you can camp directly on Matagorda Beach. This is true dispersed beach camping where you'll set up your tent or RV right on the sand. Keep in mind that a 4x4 vehicle is necessary to navigate the sandy terrain, especially when traveling down the beach to find your perfect camping spot. The beach offers a primitive camping experience with beautiful coastal views and plenty of space to spread out.

What activities and attractions are there in Matagorda, Texas?

Matagorda offers excellent beach activities including fishing, swimming, beachcombing, and wildlife observation. One popular activity is collecting driftwood for beach bonfires, which are a common evening pastime. The area is known for its natural coastal environment, bird watching opportunities, and fishing access. Nearby Matagorda town provides basic services, while the surrounding region offers nature experiences along the Texas Gulf Coast. The relatively undeveloped beach area provides a more natural and peaceful coastal experience compared to busier Texas beaches.

Is glamping available in Matagorda, Texas?

Traditional glamping accommodations are not available at Matagorda Beach Dispersed Camping, which is strictly primitive camping on the sand. The beach camping area offers no amenities or facilities that would support glamping. For comfort-oriented camping experiences, you'll need to look into private campgrounds or accommodations in the broader Matagorda area or neighboring coastal communities. The beach itself is suited for self-sufficient campers who bring all necessary equipment and supplies.

What amenities are available at Matagorda Bay Nature Park?

Matagorda Bay Nature Park is separate from the beach dispersed camping area. While the dispersed beach camping offers no formal amenities or accommodations, the Nature Park typically provides more developed facilities. For specific amenities at the Nature Park, contact the park directly as they may offer restrooms, picnic areas, and other basic services. The beach camping area itself is completely primitive with no water, electricity, or restroom facilities.