Best Camping near Chapman Ranch, TX

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Chapman Ranch, TX has a lot to offer. Chapman Ranch is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Find the best campgrounds near Chapman Ranch, TX. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Best Camping Sites Near Chapman Ranch, TX (113)

    Camper-submitted photo from Mustang Island State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Mustang Island State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Mustang Island State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Mustang Island State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Mustang Island State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Mustang Island State Park Campground

    1. Mustang Island State Park Campground

    30 Reviews
    103 Photos
    242 Saves

    Stay at one of 48 water and electric campsites or 50 drive-up primitive sites. (The water and electric campsites are 1/3 mile from the beach.) We have portable toilets along two miles of the beach. Full restrooms and showers with hot water are located near the water-electric campground.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from North Beach — Padre Island National Seashore
    Camper-submitted photo from North Beach — Padre Island National Seashore
    Camper-submitted photo from North Beach — Padre Island National Seashore
    Camper-submitted photo from North Beach — Padre Island National Seashore
    Camper-submitted photo from North Beach — Padre Island National Seashore
    Camper-submitted photo from North Beach — Padre Island National Seashore

    2. North Beach — Padre Island National Seashore

    14 Reviews
    38 Photos
    192 Saves

    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.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Malaquite Campground — Padre Island National Seashore
    Camper-submitted photo from Malaquite Campground — Padre Island National Seashore
    Camper-submitted photo from Malaquite Campground — Padre Island National Seashore
    Camper-submitted photo from Malaquite Campground — Padre Island National Seashore
    Camper-submitted photo from Malaquite Campground — Padre Island National Seashore
    Camper-submitted photo from Malaquite Campground — Padre Island National Seashore

    3. Malaquite Campground — Padre Island National Seashore

    11 Reviews
    41 Photos
    76 Saves

    Malaquite Campground is open to tents and RVs on a first-come, first-served basis (no reservations). It is between the dunes with beach access. There are designated paved and gravel camp sites, restrooms, cold water showers, and picnic tables. Some sites have grills and shade structures. No hookups but a dump station and potable water are on the road to the campground. Campers with a paid site in the campground can pitch a tent either at the site or on the beach in front of the campground.

    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Trash
    Camper-submitted photo from South Beach — Padre Island National Seashore
    Camper-submitted photo from South Beach — Padre Island National Seashore
    Camper-submitted photo from South Beach — Padre Island National Seashore
    Camper-submitted photo from South Beach — Padre Island National Seashore
    Camper-submitted photo from South Beach — Padre Island National Seashore
    Camper-submitted photo from South Beach — Padre Island National Seashore
    Camper-submitted photo from Padre Balli County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Padre Balli County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Padre Balli County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Padre Balli County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Padre Balli County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Padre Balli County Park

    5. Padre Balli County Park

    8 Reviews
    13 Photos
    71 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Port Aransas Permit Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from Port Aransas Permit Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from Port Aransas Permit Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from Port Aransas Permit Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from Port Aransas Permit Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from Port Aransas Permit Beach

    6. Port Aransas Permit Beach

    15 Reviews
    56 Photos
    125 Saves

    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.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Dispersed
    • Trash
    • Picnic Table
    Camper-submitted photo from Port A RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Port A RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Port A RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Port A RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Port A RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Port A RV Resort

    7. Port A RV Resort

    13 Reviews
    17 Photos
    58 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Bird Island Basin Campground — Padre Island National Seashore
    Camper-submitted photo from Bird Island Basin Campground — Padre Island National Seashore
    Camper-submitted photo from Bird Island Basin Campground — Padre Island National Seashore
    Camper-submitted photo from Bird Island Basin Campground — Padre Island National Seashore
    Camper-submitted photo from Bird Island Basin Campground — Padre Island National Seashore
    Camper-submitted photo from Bird Island Basin Campground — Padre Island National Seashore

    8. Bird Island Basin Campground — Padre Island National Seashore

    5 Reviews
    18 Photos
    15 Saves

    Bird Island Basin lies along Laguna Madre with easy access for fishing, birding, windsurfing, and kayaking. There are 35 RV and tent sites and 10 additional tent-only sites. All sites are side by side on gravel. The tent-only sites are walk up to a sand flat. This area is also for day use activities. Vault toilets are available at the north and south ends with day use areas in between.

    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Market
    • Trash
    • Drinking Water
    Camper-submitted photo from Gulf Waters Beach Front RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Gulf Waters Beach Front RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Gulf Waters Beach Front RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Gulf Waters Beach Front RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Gulf Waters Beach Front RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Gulf Waters Beach Front RV Resort

    9. Gulf Waters Beach Front RV Resort

    7 Reviews
    16 Photos
    71 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • No image available

      10. Colonia Del Rey RV Park

      4 Reviews
      7 Saves
      • Pets
      • Electric Hookups
      • Phone Service
      • Reservable
      • ADA Access
      • RVs

      $43 - $80 / night

    Showing results 1-10 of 113 campgrounds

    Pet-friendly camping near Chapman Ranch

    Recent Reviews In Chapman Ranch

    313 Reviews of 113 Chapman Ranch Campgrounds


    • Camper-submitted photo from Firefly Coastal Bend- Corpus Christi
      October 14, 2024

      Firefly Coastal Bend- Corpus Christi

      The people at Firefly are CROOKS!

      Good day- My name is John and my wife and I live in Dana, North Carolina... Just south of Asheville. Back in May, I had booked two(2) RV spots(one for us and one for dear friends coming in from California). I booked for a week, running from 5- 12 October, at a total(pre-paid) cost of$1,433. However, on Friday, 27 September(8 days before our trip), our region experienced Hurricane Helene. One hundred and twenty feet of our driveway was wiped out- totally washed away. The main road to our home was also washed away. Roads in and out of the area were destroyed and there were thousands of downed trees and power poles. The destruction was and remains hard to convey. We lost power and all communications for 13 days. We had no way in or out of our property for over a week. On Monday, 30 September, I was able to hike out to our local post office where I found I had one bar on my phone. I called family and friends, including the other couple that we were supposed to meet At the Firefly RV Resort. I explained the situation to them and asked them to call Firefly, cancel the reservation and,(given the circumstances) ask for a refund. The staff at Firefly were beyond rude and refused any consideration of a refund. When pressed on the matter by our friends, and stressing the dire conditions that all of North Carolina was facing, the Manager at Firefly told our friends the following-- and this is a direct quote:"Well, if the government would stop sending money to Ukraine, maybe they would have money to give to North Carolina." Enough said. I would strongly ask all conscientious RV-ers to BOYCOTT the Firefly RV Resort.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Firefly Coastal Bend- Corpus Christi
      September 18, 2024

      Firefly Coastal Bend- Corpus Christi

      Firefly Coastal Bend

      Firefly Coastal Bend Resort in Corpus Christi is the perfect getaway! The resort is incredibly family-friendly and pet-friendly, making it an ideal destination for everyone. The private beach is stunning, and the fishing spots are fantastic for those looking to relax by the water. The staff is amazing—always helpful and welcoming—and the management company is doing a phenomenal job keeping everything running smoothly. We can’t wait to come back and make even more memories here!

    • Camper-submitted photo from Sea Grass RV Resort
      September 14, 2024

      Sea Grass RV Resort

      Absolutely perfect!

      Amazing pool. Clean. Large space. Staff that is attentive to the needs of the customer. Artificial grass and palapa for shade and to limit mosquitos. We will definitely be back.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Community RV Resort
      September 9, 2024

      Community RV Resort

      Brand new Resort

      Large brand new resort with comercial laundry, pool, hot tub, great internet pool and hot tub. Very clean

    • Camper-submitted photo from Port Aransas Permit Beach
      September 1, 2024

      Port Aransas Permit Beach

      Another Great Stay

      This is our second time to Boondock on the beach. We were at marker 25 and once again thoroughly enjoyed it. It was Labor Day weekend so it was PACKED. People will pile in on top of you, but that’s the way it is. Not enough beach for so many people. The meter maid lady will harass you endlessly, but we just ignored her and continued having fun. There is a 3 night maximum in a 21 day period. Don’t try to outsmart the meter maid. She takes pictures of license plates and writes down the departure dates. She enjoys enforcing the rules.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Mustang Island State Park Campground
      July 30, 2024

      Mustang Island State Park Campground

      Small RV Campground

      It was a very short visit—one night. The campsite we stayed in had only a 50-amp connector, even though we needed thirty amps. We didn't test the receptacle to see if they were sending 30 amps through a 50-amp plug. The campground is very close to the Gulf. The beach is divided into three sections; the center is for people only. The left and right sections four wheel drive vehicles can drive on the beach until 10 pm. There are no issues at all, but you are not allowed to drink alcohol on the beach. I expect the fine would be steep but we didn't see any rangers at night. You can ⛺ camp at night. We drove on the beach without a four-sprinter—mostly packed sand. If you are going to take risks, I would check the tides. Our sprinter is heavy. If we got stuck, we would have to call a wrecker, which would have been pricy. We were one of two B vans camping. All of the 4 by-4 were light and would probably not be able to pull us out. We don't have max tracks or a winch. The park has day passes for 7 dollars, the campsite was between 20 through 30 dollars.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Ancient Oaks RV Park
      June 11, 2024

      Ancient Oaks RV Park

      Great place to stay

      Very friendly staff, down home type. New electric utility posts, clean showers and great location with Live Oak trees. Just over 1 mile to the beach. We stayed last minute on a weekend and we're taken warmly taken in. We'll spend time here again

    • Camper-submitted photo from Port Aransas Permit Beach
      June 9, 2024

      Port Aransas Permit Beach

      Great Stay

      We are Boondocking at MM 27 there are of course no hookups but I.B Magee allows you to dump and fill your tanks for $10. People pile on top of you during the day and we got a $281 ticket for parking parallel to the beach (we thought you only had to be perpendicular at the posts). That’s all the bad. Literally it. The beach is beautiful, the breeze is so nice we didn’t even run our generator during the day, the people are so fun, and the luxury of not packing our stuff up to drive to the beach every day is wonderful. We are already planning our next trip.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Lake Corpus Christi State Park Campground
      May 30, 2024

      Lake Corpus Christi State Park Campground

      Labor Day Weekend

      Clean campground, was very windy right off the lake in spot 063. But quick access to the beach and fishing were nice. Picnic table was gross with bird droppings all over it and the concrete pad. Bathrooms were hit or miss. Men’s was clean and usable, women’s was ok but got worse throughout the day and evening and unusable (toilets were clogged) by the evening.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Goose Island State Park Campground
      May 23, 2024

      Goose Island State Park Campground

      Friendly staff but gross beach

      My wife and I went for a quick trip and decided to go to a place we haven’t been. I guess we chose the wrong time to go to this state park. Nothing but misquitos at the campground. And sand fleas come out at night near the water. The staff was super friendly and the bathrooms were okay.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Goose Island State Park Campground
      May 4, 2024

      Goose Island State Park Campground

      Beautiful park at the right time of year

      Very clean and scenic campground. Plenty of space between sites if you park away from the seafront. I personally wouldn’t want to be right by the ocean as it’s just a 5 min walk from the more peaceful sheltered sites. We had campsite 115 and were very happy with it. Close to bathrooms and easy access in and out. Lots to see in the area, and if you want the beach we’d recommend Port Aransas which is only about 30 mins away. That beach is dog friendly and nicer than the closer Rockport. The short ferry ride across is also fun and free. Dolphins alongside the ferry. The only negatives would be mosquitos and humidity. Both were manageable given when we went, but only just. I’d aim for early spring or late fall to try to minimize these.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Padre Balli County Park
      March 20, 2024

      Padre Balli County Park

      It's fine.

      The price was right and I had water and electric hookups, but basically I was in a parking lot and all the grass around is full of briars. Made it really hard to walk the dog. Proximity to the beach was also really, if only the weather was a little better. The showers are a quarter pay situation and I paid $1.50 for a cold shower. When I went to ask the front office about it, they basically said "sometimes you have to run the sink for a minute". Sorry, but I am paying quarters for a shower that never gets warm that's a big dissapointment and then to met with indifference about it, hence the two stars. I also don't like that you don't get to pick your spot, you just show up, pay and they tell you where you are staying. It was the off season, so maybe things are better in full swing summer.

    • Camper-submitted photo from South Beach — Padre Island National Seashore
      March 10, 2024

      South Beach — Padre Island National Seashore

      South Beach, Padre Island National Seashore

      We've spent many winter months around the Corpus Christi, Texas area and visit South Beach frequently. Plenty to do; fishing, sunbathing, bird watching, photography, and on some evenings after dark you can spot deer and coyote come out of the sand dunes to feed on seaweed and fish remains. We prefer to camp at nearby Malequite campground for $5 a night with water, bathrooms and showers. The visitor's center has some supplies.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Port A RV Resort
      January 11, 2024

      Port A RV Resort

      port A Rv Resort

      We ended up staying 3 months. December, January and February. Love every minute of it. The staff is every helpful

    • Camper-submitted photo from Goose Island State Park Campground
      January 1, 2024

      Goose Island State Park Campground

      LOVED this campground

      I’ve been to about 10 different campgrounds this year on several different states. Goose island state park is by far the best. This time we stayed in the wooded area. I didn’t think I would like it (I loved the waterfront sites) but I loved it. The sites are a good distance apart and have new paved driveways that are very level. There is a pole for hanging lightning and a campfire pit. There is electricity and water. We are in site 115 and I have cell service which makes me very happy. I don’t think the site numbers 200’s have cell service as they are father in. It’s quiet and dark at night. The site has woods and trees behind so it’s very private. It can hold a pretty big rig. Ours is only 26 ft but it can hold much bigger. This site is fabulous. The weather is great and there are tons of things to do in the area. Book it! We are coming back.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Goose Island State Park Campground
      December 30, 2023

      Goose Island State Park Campground

      Waterfront site is awesome

      The waterfront sites are superb. Great view of Copano Bay and love being right on the water. They are very level, have electric and water. The dump site is also great - level, paved, water hookup, easy to get to and easy to use. I have decent cell service on the waterfront sites (T Mobile) and no service in the wooded areas.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Port Aransas Permit Beach
      December 5, 2023

      Port Aransas Permit Beach

      great

      It sounds like Port Aransas offers a fantastic beach experience! The allowance for small campfires adds a cozy touch for those cookie clicker who want to enjoy the beach atmosphere well into the evening.

    • Camper-submitted photo from IB Magee Beach County Park
      November 19, 2023

      IB Magee Beach County Park

      Perfect place to enjoy Port Aransas Beaches.

      The campground is managed through the county. From what we understand, they rebuilt it after previous hurricane damage. All pads are concrete with new hookups. Granted, the city allows boondocking on the beach if one wants to tackle that. But this park is the best I have seen on the island. Pads have a patio but do not have fire rings and picnic tables. everything else was great. The only downside was there are sticker burs everywhere. Victorias on the Bay is a great restaurant with a great atmosphere. Also, recommend Port A carts for golf cart rental. They currently have reduced rates. They operate out of the Port A Icecream Shop around the corner. One place I recommend everyone to steer clear is Castaways Seafood and Grill. The food was cold and bland, the service was slow. On our first night here, unbeknown to us, they charge a Cashless Transaction fee and apply sales tax to the fee itself. This question of business practice is not posted anywhere in the restaurant, instead, it is placed at the very bottom of the menu. I challenged this with the manager(Beverly) and she basically said to pay in cash or I could call the cops. She was rude and obnoxious. I can not confirm if other restaurants practice this, but always make sure to ask upfront. The is one grocery(IGA) on the island, a Whataburger, and shops galor. This place is busy during the summer months.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Mustang Island State Park Campground
      November 11, 2023

      Mustang Island State Park Campground

      No thills here

      The camp ground’s only redemption is the closeness to the national park. There is really nothing there that would you wanna stay there except for that. Next time I would rathe stay at a camp ground one hour drive away from the national park in exchange for a better site.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Bay View RV Resort
      September 9, 2023

      Bay View RV Resort

      Love it

      I have lived and worked here for 6 years now. Absolutely love the wildlife and birding. This place is very rustic and natural as possible. I host the Hummingbird Celebration site now known as Hummer Hill across from 219. This event is the second week of September for the big Hummingbird migration south.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Port Aransas Permit Beach
      September 8, 2023

      Port Aransas Permit Beach

      Tons of space to set up camp

      Port Aransas offers miles of beach designated for camping and day use. You must have a beach camping permit to stay overnight. Weekends get a little crowded during the day, but it quiets down in the afternoon.

      Watch out for coyotes! They are everywhere and can be aggressive. We had at least 5 in the area, but they never came closer than about 50ft away.



    Guide to Chapman Ranch

    Camping near Chapman Ranch, Texas, offers a mix of beautiful beaches and cozy campgrounds. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a place to park your RV, there are options that cater to all kinds of campers.

    What to do:

    • Beach Access: Enjoy the sun and surf at Mustang Island State Park Campground. Campers love the close proximity to the beach, making it easy to walk over and enjoy a day of fun in the sand. One reviewer mentioned, "The sites are a little close and nothing fancy but they are close enough to walk to the beach."
    • Fishing and Wildlife Watching: Head to North Beach — Padre Island National Seashore for fishing and birdwatching. A camper shared, "Opportunities to birdwatch, hike or bike along the beach, play in the surf or just lie in the sand are as numerous as the stars."
    • Explore Local Towns: The area around Chapman Ranch has charming towns like Port Aransas. Campers can explore local shops and restaurants, making it a great way to spend an afternoon.

    What campers like:

    • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the facilities at Port A RV Resort. One visitor said, "The staff is super friendly. The location is convenient to all the Port A attractions and the beach."
    • Friendly Atmosphere: Many campers enjoy the welcoming vibe at Circle W RV Ranch. A reviewer noted, "The staff will go out of the way to help you if they can."
    • Close to Nature: Campers love the natural beauty surrounding Malaquite Campground — Padre Island National Seashore. One camper mentioned, "Glorious views of the ocean, lovely sunsets over the dunes."

    What you should know:

    • Permits Required: If you plan to camp at Port Aransas Permit Beach, remember that a beach camping permit is necessary. A camper warned, "Don’t try to outsmart the meter maid. She takes pictures of license plates and writes down the departure dates."
    • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Malaquite Campground, do not have electric hookups or showers. A visitor shared, "There is no electric or water so be prepared, only cold water shower but incredible sunsets and sunrises."
    • Crowded on Weekends: Expect busy beaches and campgrounds during weekends, especially at popular spots like Gulf Waters Beach Front RV Resort. One camper noted, "People will pile in on top of you, but that’s the way it is."

    Tips for camping with families:

    • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds that offer family activities, like Pioneer Beach Resort. A reviewer said, "Wonderful clubhouse with numerous activities. Nice pool."
    • Safety First: Keep an eye on kids while camping near the beach. One camper at South Beach — Padre Island National Seashore mentioned, "Watch out for coyotes! They are everywhere and can be aggressive."
    • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having snacks on hand can keep kids happy during beach days. A camper at Port A RV Resort mentioned, "The price is reasonable. I would stay here again."

    Tips from RVers:

    • Check Hookups: Make sure to verify the availability of electric and water hookups at your chosen campground. A visitor at Circle W RV Ranch noted, "The park has day passes for 7 dollars, the campsite was between 20 through 30 dollars."
    • Plan for Tight Spaces: Some RV parks have limited space, so be prepared for tight parking. A camper at Pioneer Beach Resort said, "The spaces are a little tight but adequate."
    • Bring Your Own Firewood: Many campgrounds do not provide firewood, so it's best to bring your own. A camper at Gulf Waters Beach Front RV Resort mentioned, "The staff is outstanding & all the amenities are top notch."

    Camping near Chapman Ranch, Texas, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RVer seeking a peaceful retreat.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    • What camping is available near Chapman Ranch, TX?

      According to TheDyrt.com, Chapman Ranch, TX offers a wide range of camping options, with 113 campgrounds and RV parks near Chapman Ranch, TX and 4 free dispersed camping spots.

    • Which is the most popular campground near Chapman Ranch, TX?

      According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Chapman Ranch, TX is Mustang Island State Park Campground with a 4.2-star rating from 30 reviews.

    • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Chapman Ranch, TX?

      According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 free dispersed camping spots near Chapman Ranch, TX.

    • What parks are near Chapman Ranch, TX?

      According to TheDyrt.com, there are 1 parks near Chapman Ranch, TX that allow camping, notably Padre Island National Seashore and Cordell Hull Lake.