The Rio Grande Valley provides unique camping opportunities for winter visitors seeking mild temperatures, with daytime averages of 70-80°F December through March. Campgrounds near Alamo, Texas primarily cater to seasonal and long-term stays with concrete pads, paved roads, and activity centers. Most parks operate as 55+ communities with monthly rate options significantly discounted during summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 95°F.
What to do
Visit South Padre Island: Located approximately 70 miles from Alamo, this barrier island offers beaches and wildlife viewing. A camper at Encore Tropic Winds notes, "Near South Padre Island, but nestled in the town of Harlingen, you're able to immediately see the back life, but also be in 'regular, non-touristy' towns."
Explore local birding spots: The Rio Grande Valley contains several notable birding locations. "We stayed here a month in April 2019. We originally were going to stay two weeks, but we extended due to the great birding in the area... Estero Llano, South Padre Island, Santa Ana, Hugh Ramsey Park, and Laguna Atascosa NWR are within an hour drive," according to a visitor at Encore Sunshine.
Enjoy park amenities: Most RV resorts feature extensive recreational facilities. Bluebonnet RV Resort offers "two air conditioned club houses and the separate lounging library" and has a "New Butterfly Garden will become an attraction to see! Recently planted," according to campers who stayed there.
What campers like
Pet-friendly facilities: Many parks accommodate travelers with pets. "If you are near the border and are looking for a great place for your furry companion, Lakewood RV Resort is a great stop," notes one reviewer. Bluebonnet RV Resort features a "dog wash with fresh towels-all you need is your doggie's favorite shampoo" and a "dog playground."
Activities for seniors: Parks organize numerous social activities for winter residents. "Adult resort, lots of activities and super friendly residents!" mentions a visitor to Tip O' Texas RV Resort. Another camper observed, "Friendly atmosphere, in park Entertainment, and activities, very motivated Manager, our 2nd year there, and we've met some wonderful people and lifetime friends."
Clean facilities: Regular maintenance and cleanliness standards are priorities. One camper stated that Bluebonnet RV Resort is "Beautifully maintained, very clean. All buildings and laundry are exceptionally clean. Grounds are well maintained. No weeds and grass is mowed throughout."
What you should know
Age restrictions apply: Most parks operate as retirement communities. Sunshine RV Resort notes, "We are not 55+, but according to the office staff they are an 80/20 park so up to 20% of occupants can be less than 55. They do, however, restrict people with kids."
Weather considerations: Strong winds affect the area regularly. A camper at Tropic Winds RV Resort stated they "DID NOT like the daily winds of 13-40 mph."
Off-season quieter: Summer months offer less crowded conditions but higher temperatures. "We stayed here a month in April 2019... It was off-season and the park was very quiet. Many times, it felt like we had to place to ourselves," reports a visitor at Encore Sunshine.
Train noise: Some parks experience periodic noise disruption. "The park was quiet, but there is a train nearby that would come through in the early morning sometimes which was annoying," notes one camper about their experience.
Tips for camping with families
Limited family options: Most RV parks near Alamo have age restrictions. When inquiring about stays with children, specifically ask about their family policy, as one reviewer mentioned about Sunshine RV Resort: "They do, however, restrict people with kids. Doesn't hurt to call and ask if you are interested in staying."
Consider proximity to attractions: Some parks offer better access to family activities. "Bluebonnet RV Resort is a nice hidden gem," notes one camper, with well-maintained facilities including an "indoor heated pool" that might appeal to families during cooler months.
Look for parks with recreation options: When traveling with children, prioritize parks with appropriate amenities. One visitor mentioned finding "Volley Random, a multiplayer volleyball game where players compete in fast-paced matches" at a local park, indicating some recreational opportunities exist.
Tips from RVers
Level sites important: Concrete pads provide stable parking. "Well maintained, reasonable prices, gated, small dog park, laundry rooms on site, two recreation halls, indoor heated pool, billiard hall, quiet area, level sites," notes a camper about Bluebonnet RV Resort.
Seasonal pricing varies dramatically: Winter months command premium rates while summer offers bargains. Most parks have significantly reduced monthly rates May through September, with some offering 50% discounts from peak winter pricing.
Space considerations: Site layout affects larger RVs. "Some sites are a little tight but mgr tries to get you in best spot for your needs," reports one RVer about their experience with campsite selection and accommodation.
