Tent camping near Fresno, Texas requires careful planning and consideration of both mainland and coastal options. Located in Fort Bend County, Fresno sits approximately 16 miles southwest of downtown Houston and offers relatively convenient access to Gulf Coast camping about an hour's drive south. Compact sand at beach camping areas generally supports regular vehicles, though conditions can change rapidly after storms or high tides.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Bryan Beach, campers can enjoy both surf fishing and casting from the nearby Brazos River mouth. "I pop down here several times a year. It's super close to town and gives you a bit of reprieve from the city," notes one camper at Bryan Beach.
Water activities: The Colorado River access at Hollywood Bottom Park provides excellent paddling options. "Free camping geared towards river use (raft/kayak/canoe). Great rest stop while on the Colorado River. The next access site is 18 miles downstream," explains a reviewer at Hollywood Bottom Park.
Stargazing: Beach camping locations offer unobstructed night sky viewing away from city lights. "Beautiful night stargazing and relaxing with the ocean waves. The days bright sun and cool water gave us great joy," shares a camper at Surfside Beach Dispersed Camping.
What campers like
Affordability: Free beach camping makes this area accessible for budget-conscious campers. "Hard to beat free camping on the beach," states a visitor at Follett's Island Beach.
Privacy options: The extended shoreline provides ample space for solitude. "We camped out on the beach for three days at a few different locations and had no problems other than soft sand at one of the access roads (check before you drive into the sand)," reports a camper at Follett's Island Beach.
Swimming access: Direct ocean access for cooling off during hot months. "The morning brought warm sun which allowed for a pleasant frolic in the ocean after waking," describes one visitor at Follett's Island.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most beach camping areas have minimal to no infrastructure. "Port o potties only, no bathrooms or showers. The biggest problem however, was the mosquitoes! At dusk we had to retreat to our tents immediately or be eaten alive," warns a camper at Bryan Beach.
Beach debris: Litter and natural debris can affect camping conditions. "Junk washes up on shore frequent. It can also get a bit crowded especially on the weekends," notes another Bryan Beach visitor.
Weather considerations: Coastal storms can develop quickly, especially during hurricane season (June-November). "Minimal traffic in September and the beach was still cleaned of seaweed and debris daily due to the hurricane and higher tides - but we only had water touch our tires one night," shares one Follett's Island camper.
Tips for camping with families
Pack extra supplies: With limited services near beach camping areas, bring all necessities. "Plan ahead, stores are few and far between. NO amenities, water, showers or hookups of any kind," advises a camper at Surfside Beach Dispersed Camping.
Insect protection: Coastal areas can have significant mosquito populations, particularly at dusk. "Tmobile Cell service wasn't the best. Generator usage is allowed, but you barely could hear any due to all the space between campers & the WAVES SOUNDING SO AMAZING!" shares a visitor at Follett's Island.
Consider inland alternatives: For families wanting more amenities, Houston West RV Park offers tent camping with facilities. "Very nice RV Campground with large dog park, laundry, and cleaned showers and toilets. Easy drive to see the Johnson Space Center," reports a visitor at Houston West RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Check access points carefully: Not all beach entrances have firm enough sand for RVs. "Overall, great spot! Just pick your driving lanes and parking spots carefully without 4x4," notes an RV camper at Follett's Island.
Consider weekday visits: Weekend crowds can limit prime camping spots. "We had a blast! We were living on the beach in our 39ft skoolie for 5 days over Christmas!" shares an RV camper at Follett's Island Beach.
Water conservation: With no hookups at beach sites, RVers must bring all necessary water. "Class B camping. Had beach mostly to ourselves. Primitive camping with no amenities. Just what we were looking for. Clean and plenty of room. Good cell services. Not much in the area so pack your pantry in advance," advises an RVer at Follett's Island.
