Dispersed camping near El Lago, Texas primarily features beach locations with firm, compacted sand that creates accessible driving conditions along the Gulf Coast. These sites typically sit 15-30 yards above the tide line, offering protection from water encroachment even during storms. Summer temperatures average 88-95°F during the day with frequent coastal breezes, while winter camping sees temperatures dropping to 40-50°F overnight.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At High Island Beach, visitors regularly catch various Gulf species. "It did get busy during the day with people fishing and swimming," notes Russell H.
Stargazing sessions: The minimal light pollution at these beaches creates excellent night sky viewing. "Beautiful night stargazing and relaxing with the ocean waves," reports Alana B. at Surfside Beach Dispersed Camping.
Wildlife watching: Bolivar Flats sits adjacent to a nature preserve where birds and marine life are abundant. "There are also paramotors that fly over head, they are fun to watch," mentions Gregtasha P.
Swimming: The gentle slope of beaches like Follett's Island creates good swimming conditions. One camper reported, "The morning brought warm sun which allowed for a pleasant frolic in the ocean after waking."
What campers like
Privacy options: The extensive shoreline allows campers to spread out. At Bolivar Flats Dispersed Camping, Laura M. notes, "It's our third time staying here, and each time it's been quiet, peaceful, and hardly any other campers."
Weekday tranquility: Many campers recommend visiting Monday through Thursday. "We stayed Monday-Friday and were the only RVer there Thursday night," reports Jacqueline Z.
Sunrise and sunset views: The unobstructed horizon offers spectacular daily light shows. "Nice sunrise and an amazing sunset behind the houses," according to one Bolivar Flats visitor.
Mobile vendor access: Some beaches have ice cream and food trucks that travel the shoreline. "Weekend also brings vender trucks coming down the beach all the time. We were a bit irritated at 1st but then bought ice-cream," shares Coleena at Brazoria Beach.
What you should know
Seasonal bug activity: Biting insects can be problematic depending on wind and season. "Only gave 4 stars because of the biting flies... They were swarming out dog, we had to keep her in the tent most of the time," reports Pam H.
Parking strategy: Sand firmness varies by location on the beach. At Gulf Side Oasis Beach Dispersed, Thomas and James S. advise, "Parked parallel to the dunes off the packed down sand!"
Weekend noise levels: Vehicle traffic increases significantly Friday through Sunday. "The weekends are loud and busy, during the week it calms down and gets quiet," explains a Bolivar Flats visitor.
Beach cleanliness concerns: Some locations experience trash issues. "Unfortunately this beach is not maintained and individuals seem to not know how to pick up after themselves," reports Christian M. about High Island Beach.
Tips for camping with families
Beach games: The hard-packed sand creates ideal conditions for games and activities. "The days bright sun and cool water gave us great joy," shares a camper from Surfside Beach.
Safety distances: Park at least 15 yards from the water's edge. "Tide didn't come up closer than 15 yards to the dunes, even during a crazy storm," advises David P.
Shell collecting: These beaches offer abundant shell hunting opportunities. One visitor mentioned "shells everywhere" during their November stay.
Wind preparation: Secure tents and canopies thoroughly. "Wind was blowing around 30mph from the south so the waves were amazing to listen and watch. Kid had a blast too!" notes a Bolivar Flats camper.
Tips from RVers
Vehicle positioning: For better stability, park parallel to the shoreline. At Follett's Island Beach, experienced campers note "hard packed sand makes it easy to drive any type of vehicle on the beach."
Length accommodation: The beaches can handle various RV sizes. "Pulled in with 23 ft trailer and no problems," reports Jack K. at Brazoria Beach.
Leveling challenges: Beach surfaces slope toward the water. "Beach isn't really flat, it slopes down towards the water, but it's close enough," mentions a Bolivar Flats visitor.
Driving lanes: Choose entry points carefully. "Overall, great spot! Just pick your driving lanes and parking spots carefully without 4x4," advises a camper from Follett's Island.
