The Corpus Christi camping area encompasses both barrier islands and inland waterways along the Texas Gulf Coast. This region experiences strong prevailing winds year-round, with winter temperatures averaging 55-70°F and summer temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F with high humidity. Salt exposure from coastal air affects camping equipment, requiring more frequent cleaning and maintenance than inland locations.
What to do
Horseback riding on beaches: Available near Port Aransas Permit Beach, where campers can enjoy wildlife viewing alongside beach riding. "Great spot to pull up set a tent up or pull your own camper in. Just get a $12 parking permit at the stripes gas station and you're good to stay over night!" notes Tiffany S.
Sea turtle conservation: Visit rescue facilities near Mustang Island. "Visit the Sea Turtle Rescue site further down the coast," suggests Gretchen N. when staying at Mustang Island. The center offers educational programs about endangered Kemp's ridley sea turtles that nest in the area.
Fishing from piers: Bob Hall Pier provides fishing access near Padre Balli County Park. "County park close to the pier with a place to eat and drink," mentions Chris P. The pier extends 1,240 feet into the Gulf with no fishing license required.
What campers like
Waterfront camping options: Sites with direct water views are highly rated. "One side is the bay and the other is the ocean, lovely water views everywhere," describes Kayla M. about Mustang Island State Park Campground. The park features both gulf-facing and bay-side camping areas.
Beach driving access: Several areas permit vehicles directly on beaches. "You can drive right on the beach like a highway, in fact people do even in big rigs. You can park right on the beach," explains Starseed P. This allows campers to position equipment closer to the water than at typical coastal campgrounds.
Protected camping behind dunes: Wind barriers improve comfort in this breezy region. "Loved that the beach was walking distance from camp, but the sites were guarded by the dunes. Really helped fend off the wind," reports one camper at Mustang Island. These natural windbreaks provide critical protection while maintaining easy beach access.
What you should know
Sand burr challenges: Several campgrounds have painful grass burrs that affect both humans and pets. "The goat heads or grass burrs are a nightmare especially if you have dogs... they absolutely can't run in the grass," warns a camper at NAS RV Park Corpus Christi. Bringing leaf blowers to clear concrete pads helps manage this issue.
Limited stay requirements: Beach camping areas have time restrictions. "You have to move every 3 days. Got very busy during spring break weekend, otherwise quiet," notes mark F. about Port Aransas Beach. Most permit areas enforce these limits to prevent long-term occupation.
Salt damage concerns: Proximity to ocean affects equipment. "There are times when it's so thick you could use an ice scraper," reports a camper regarding salt buildup on vehicles. Campers should plan for post-trip cleaning to prevent corrosion damage.
Tips for camping with families
Boardwalk beach access: Easier for children with gear at Pioneer Beach Resort. "Best part is the boardwalk to the beach where you can drive over with your golf cart," explains Nicole K. These elevated walkways protect dune ecosystems while providing convenient beach access.
Child-friendly wildlife opportunities: Evening crab hunting provides entertainment. "One of my favorite places in the park was the recreational area further inland. Beautiful sunset and lots of crabs to catch!" shares a visitor to Mustang Island. Ghost crab viewing is particularly good after sunset with flashlights.
Swimming pool alternatives: When ocean conditions are rough, on-site pools provide safer swimming. "They have 2 wonderful swimming pools that are heated," notes Sheila C. about Pioneer Beach Resort, making it suitable for family swimming year-round regardless of Gulf conditions.
Tips from RVers
Electrical outages: Power reliability concerns exist throughout the region. "At about 8:40pm we heard a loud report, similar to a shotgun blast. The whole park lost power, i think a transformer blew up," reports Pedro C. at Padre Balli County Park. Having generator backup or alternative power sources is advisable.
Wind preparation essential: Retract awnings and consider bringing in slides during high winds. "The winds here can reach 60 mph. Just prepare for it by never leaving awnings out and when bad bring slides in so awning toppers don't get ripped off," advises a camper at Firefly Coastal Bend- Corpus Christi. Stabilizing equipment becomes crucial during common coastal wind events.
Concrete pad availability: Many campgrounds offer hard-surface sites helpful for leveling. "Sites are level and functional," notes a camper at Padre Balli County Park. These pads provide stability in sandy soil conditions common to coastal camping.
