Camping near Fulton, Texas offers coastal advantages with short driving distances to water recreation areas in most directions. The coastal region features several wildlife preserves and migratory bird habitats that complement the nearby camping options. Winter temperatures typically remain mild enough for comfortable tent camping throughout the season, though strong coastal winds can create challenges for tent setup.
What to do
Fishing from piers: Goose Island State Park provides excellent fishing access from its newly renovated pier. "They offer both 30 amp and 50 amp service, water, fire ring, table on cement pad and nice flat spots. Good day use spots and excellent boat ramp with a fish cleaning table," notes Jeff in his review.
Visit The Big Tree: Several campgrounds provide convenient access to this ancient oak. "Make sure to see 'The Big Tree' which is a short drive/bike ride away," recommends Harry H. This landmark oak is purportedly 1000-2000 years old and stands as a natural monument in the area.
Wildlife viewing: The coastal location creates opportunities for bird watching, especially during migration seasons. According to Larry at Goose Island State Park, "Wish I would have come better prepared to fish. Did see a Whooping Crane." The area attracts numerous rare and migratory bird species throughout the year.
What campers like
Private wooded campsites: Enchanted Oaks RV Park offers sites with natural vegetation barriers. According to Mike K., "This is a great place to camp! All sites have concrete pads. Lots of room and plenty of trees." The layout provides more privacy than typical RV parks.
Beach camping options: Port Aransas Permit Beach allows camping directly on the sand with appropriate permits. "Beautiful beaches, some of the clearest water you will find in Texas. Head towards the state park for quieter crowds," recommends Tim W. The permit system keeps crowds manageable even during peak seasons.
Heated pools for winter visitors: Winter Texans appreciate facilities that accommodate cooler weather. According to Holly S. at Port A RV Resort, "The pools and rec centers are top notch. Home town feel everywhere you go." Another reviewer specifically mentions, "They have 2 wonderful swimming pools that are heated, yes I said heated. Perfect for the winter Texans."
What you should know
Beach permit requirements: For beach camping near Fulton, permits are necessary but affordable. "Just get a $12 parking permit at the stripes gas station and you're good to stay over night," explains Tiffany S. about Port Aransas Beach. These permits typically allow up to three days of camping in one location.
Seasonal crowds: The beaches experience significant fluctuations in visitor numbers. "Great on the beach camping. $12/yr. You have to move every 3 days. Got very busy during spring break weekend, otherwise quiet," notes Mark F. about Port Aransas Beach camping.
Mosquito preparation: The coastal wetland environment creates ideal conditions for insects. "Yes there are bugs, but this is in the middle of reclaimed wetlands, so be prepared! This is their world and we must adapt," advises Jeff about Rockport RV Resort by Rjourney.
Tips for camping with families
Hurricane recovery awareness: Some areas continue to show signs of past storm damage. Peg F. notes about Goose Island, "The campground was nice and clean. There is still a lot of damage from the hurricane." When visiting with children, prepare them for seeing restoration work in progress.
Bike-friendly areas: Several campgrounds offer safe cycling opportunities for families. Sheila B. mentions at Port A RV Resort, "We typically ride our bicycles around to eat, sightsee, or just enjoy the island." Another camper specifically notes, "My husband and I love to ride our bike to town on the nice wide sidewalks (that are labeled for bikes or walking)."
Dog-friendly campgrounds near Fulton: For families traveling with pets, Bay View RV Resort offers spacious sites. "The sites are large and tree-shaded, the sites are widely spread apart," notes HandL C. The spread-out layout provides better accommodation for active dogs that need exercise space.
Tips from RVers
Sand management: RVs parked near beaches require extra maintenance. Angela R. advises about Port Aransas Beach camping, "Be ready to deal with fine sand in your rv and everything." Regular sweeping and covering sensitive electronics helps reduce sand-related issues.
Site selection strategies: When booking at dog-friendly campgrounds near Fulton, consider wind patterns and location. David N. shares from experience, "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." Backing sites provide more stability in coastal winds.
Utility placement awareness: Some older parks have unusual hookup configurations. A reviewer at Sandollar Resort & RV Park explains, "Our water and sewer was on the correct side but electric and cable on the other side. Glad we had a super long coax cable and power cable." Bringing extension cords and longer cables prepares you for these situations.
