Campers seeking equestrian facilities near Corpus Christi, Texas face limited dedicated options. The region features campgrounds along the Gulf Coast, with sites ranging from wooded areas with Texas Live Oaks to bayfront locations. Goose Island State Park offers camping environments at elevations near sea level, with seasonal considerations including humid summers reaching 90°F and milder winters with temperatures averaging 60°F.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Goose Island State Park Campground provides excellent fishing access with a pier and boat ramp. "Good day use spots and excellent boat ramp with a fish cleaning table," notes Jeff in their review, mentioning that the park features "a brand new, huge pier with boat access and fishing."
Wildlife observation: The area's coastal ecosystem supports diverse birdwatching opportunities. "Did see a Whooping Crane. Stayed on the bay side," reports Larry in their Goose Island review, highlighting the rare bird sightings possible in this region.
Visit historic trees: Take a short trip to see ancient specimens near camping areas. Harry H. recommends: "Make sure to see 'The Big Tree' which is a short drive/bike ride away," referring to a tree purported to be 1,000-2,000 years old near Goose Island State Park.
What campers like
Variety of camping environments: Goose Island offers distinct camping zones with different advantages. Katie B. explains: "We really enjoyed staying in the wooded area of the park. Most spaces are very private because of the thick plant life. The beach spots looked cool but we didn't want the noise from the boats."
Proximity to amenities: Campers appreciate access to nearby services while enjoying nature. "Goose Island is close to Walmart, HEB and many other stores in restaurants. The park all around is great," notes Red S., indicating convenient supply options for equestrian campers and others needing feed or equipment.
Unique animal interactions: Mustang Hollow Campground offers unexpected animal encounters beyond traditional horse camping. Nick & Allyssa S. mention: "There is a petting zoo with miniature donkeys and horses, goats and emus! This was a wonderful treat feeding the critters."
What you should know
Noise considerations: Waterfront campsites experience boat noise that may disturb horses and campers. Eric R. cautions about Goose Island: "The air boats run all day on the weekends and are loud," while Larry similarly notes: "Air boats are loud early and late."
Site selection strategy: Campsite positioning affects privacy, accessibility and comfort levels. At Goose Island, Jeff explains they've "arranged the spots very well, with good vegetation between each spot that hides your spot from your neighbor."
Seasonal impacts: Weather conditions affect camping experiences year-round. David N. reports: "We hit some big wind 3/21/22. We were in the beach front with waves crashing over so we got luck and moved to the wooded area."
Tips for camping with families
Playground availability: Verify current amenities before promising recreation options to children. At Mustang Hollow Campground, Nick & Allyssa S. caution: "Pictures show a playground, dog park, etc., however, none of these things exist. It looks like they did at one point, but not in the last decade."
Site privacy considerations: Select campsites based on family needs for space and seclusion. For families at Goose Island, Katie B. recommends the "wooded area of the park" where "spaces are very private because of the thick plant life."
Natural educational opportunities: Incorporate learning experiences about local ecology. Harry H. mentions visiting in "winter for birding" at Goose Island, noting it's "right next to wildlife refuge, convenient to lots of beaches."
Tips from RVers
Clearance challenges: Large rigs require careful navigation in wooded areas of equestrian campgrounds near Corpus Christi. David N. shares this experience at Goose Island: "While there are some low branches- I was able to carefully maneuver into #125 with my tall fifth wheel. But it was close."
Loop selection strategy: Position matters for larger vehicles and horse trailers. Eric R. advises: "If you're staying in the wooden area, stay on the outer loop if you're a big rig."
Post-hurricane conditions: Some facilities continue recovering from storm damage. Peg F. observed at Goose Island: "The campground was nice and clean. There is still a lot of damage from the hurricane."
