Campsites near Calliham, Texas offer year-round access with peak visitation during spring and fall when temperatures are mild. The region sits at approximately 200 feet above sea level, with the surrounding landscape characterized by mesquite, live oak trees, and prairie grasses. Winter camping temperatures typically range from 40-70°F, while summer temperatures routinely exceed 95°F with high humidity.
What to do
Bird watching and wildlife spotting: At Choke Canyon State Park Campground, wildlife viewing opportunities abound throughout the year. "Very nice, isolated area. All kinds of water birds. The just tent area is right on the small 75 acre lake which has gobs of birds! Kayaking would be a blast, but the boat ramp isn't really 'operational' due to the water being low," notes reviewer Shelly S.
Kayaking: The waterways near campsites around Calliham provide calm waters for paddling when conditions permit. "Choke Canyon Reservoir is large and the area we were at had very little motorized boat traffic, which made it great for kayaking. That could be attributed to the low lake level and the overgrowth of hydrilla," reports Jeff from Choke Canyon State Park.
Hiking trail exploration: Several parks offer interconnected trail systems. "There was a hiking trail right behind our spot," shares Rebeca L. about her experience at Choke Canyon State Park. "Good trails overall, however, could use better markings at trail intersections," adds another camper, highlighting the need to bring a trail map.
What campers like
Wildlife encounters: The natural areas surrounding Lake Corpus Christi State Park Campground provide frequent wildlife sightings. "Howling coyotes nightly" mentions Napunani in their review, while another camper shares, "We searched for wildlife and made s'mores. It was a good time!"
Quiet camping experience: Many campers appreciate the peaceful atmosphere at various parks. "We stopped for the night on the way into North Padre Island. It was a perfect stop after a long day of driving. The sites are large and well spaced... And it was fun listening to an owl just after sunset," writes Doug W.
Fishing opportunities: The lakes and reservoirs offer fishing access when water levels permit. "Great aluminum floating fishing pier with a covered fish cleaning pavilion," notes one visitor to Lake Corpus Christi State Park. Another mentions that despite fluctuating water conditions, there are "Lots of places to fish from the banks and jettys."
What you should know
Water level fluctuations: Reservoirs in the area commonly experience significant changes in water level affecting boat launches and recreation. At Mustang Hollow Campground, one visitor reported: "Lake was entirely dry—of course no fault of the campground, but didn't allow for fishing, etc."
Tent camping considerations: Basic facilities are available at most parks but vary by campground loop. "The tent area has no shower, but the RV shower house isn't too far away," notes one Choke Canyon visitor. Another camper at Lake Corpus Christi mentions, "Only $25 for full hookups, $15 for just water and electric, $10 for tents, $5 day fee."
Seasonal hazards: Summer brings intense heat and thorny vegetation can be problematic. "While we enjoyed camping here there is an over abundance of stickers that we had to continually pull out of the dogs paws," warns a Lake Corpus Christi camper. Trail conditions can also deteriorate during wet weather.
Tips for camping with families
Animal attractions: Some campgrounds offer unique animal experiences for children. At Mustang Hollow Campground, "There is a petting zoo with miniature donkeys and horses, goats and emus! This was a wonderful treat feeding the critters," shares one family.
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds feature sites with room for children to play. "Very large spacious campsite. Restroom and shower located very close by. Camped site 60/61. Beautiful grounds. Lake walking distance. Had a wonderful time," writes Chris S. about Lake Corpus Christi State Park.
Shelter options: For families wanting comfort with outdoor access, cabin rentals are available. "Stayed in shelter #9 and it was perfect. The view of the lake from the site was awesome and there was a hiking trail right behind our spot," reports Rebeca L. about the shelter facilities at Choke Canyon.
Tips from RVers
Shade availability: Finding shade can be crucial during hot months at Bar M RV Park. "RV Park, not a 'campground'. Super friendly check-in office staff. Propane on site, large laundry. Gated and clean. Everything I needed," notes Victoria G. While not specifically mentioning shade, many parks have limited natural coverage.
Site conditions: Expect variable site quality and levelness throughout the region. "Sites are small, dirt and uneven," reports a visitor to Mustang Hollow Campground. At Lake Corpus Christi, one RVer noted, "Unlevel side-to-side concert site parking pad was in poor condition and barely long enough for 28 ft trailer."
Electrical service: Most RV parks provide 30-50 amp service. "With 50 amp power and water at each site as well as a dump station at the entrance, it has all we need," shares Doug W. about Choke Canyon State Park. For larger rigs, confirm site suitability before arrival as some parks have size limitations.
