Galveston camping options range from beachfront sites to bayside accommodations across a 32-mile barrier island on the Texas Gulf Coast. The climate features hot, humid summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F and mild winters averaging 50-65°F. Coastal camping in this area requires preparation for persistent salt exposure, which can corrode metal components on RVs and camping equipment.
What to do
Beach activities: Access varies by location. At Galveston Island State Park Campground, the oceanside campsites are within walking distance of shoreline recreation. "The beach had clear water really nice sand. The only downside? The mosquitoes!! Right at dusk they attacked with a vengeance. Be prepared for that!" notes Ashley C.
Fishing: No additional license needed in state parks. The bay side of Galveston Island offers protected waters for fishing. "During the day we took our inflatable boat out on the bay, went fishing (no license needed at a state park) and went to the Oceanside beach," reports a visitor to Galveston Island State Park.
Kayaking: Access from bayou locations. The protected waters around the island provide calmer conditions for paddling compared to the Gulf side. At Jamaica Beach RV Resort, campers enjoy "kayaking on the bay" with easy access from the campground.
What campers like
Concrete camping pads: Level sites at most established campgrounds. These paved surfaces help campers stay level despite coastal conditions. According to Jim P., the beachside sites at Galveston Island State Park are "nice and wide and level" and the park has "recently (past few years) been redone and they did a fantastic job!"
Private shower facilities: Individual bathrooms at some locations. Galveston Island KOA Holiday offers "clean restrooms and showers that were well-kept" and "private bath and shower rooms" according to reviews, with several campers noting the cleanliness of facilities.
Winter camping: Milder temperatures draw long-term visitors. The offseason provides a quieter experience with lower rates. One visitor at Stella Mare RV Resort noted, "We stayed at Stella Mare for 2 months while working a project. Could not be happier. The lots are reasonably spacious and everything is clean, clean, clean!"
What you should know
Salt exposure: Vehicles and equipment require extra cleaning. The coastal environment causes rapid corrosion and residue buildup on equipment.
Insects: Prepare for mosquitoes and biting flies. These are particularly active near lagoons and bayous, especially at dusk. One camper at Bolivar Flats Dispersed Camping noted they "only gave 4 stars because of the biting flies... They were swarming our dog, we had to keep her in the tent most of the time."
Ferry access: Required for Bolivar Peninsula locations. The free ferry from Galveston to Port Bolivar runs 24 hours but can have long waits during peak periods. A visitor to Sandpiper RV Resort appreciated the "great location" with "right on the beach and only 30 minute walk to the ferry."
Tides: Monitor forecasts when beach camping. Tidal patterns affect beach width and safety at waterfront sites. A Bolivar Flats camper reported, "We worried a little about the tide this time, but we kept an eye on it and it didn't come near us."
Tips for camping with families
Splash pads: Available at several resorts. Dellanera RV Park and Jamaica Beach RV Resort offer water features specifically designed for younger children. One family reported that at Jamaica Beach "we enjoy the lazy river, putt, putt, and kayaking on the bay. It is an easy walk to the beach."
Organized activities: Scheduled events at larger resorts. Some campgrounds organize regular social events for all ages. According to a visitor, Stella Mare "have events for all ages multiple times a week including kid and adult only crafts, candy bar bingo, wine night, s'mores, and golf cart parades for holidays."
Beach access considerations: Distance varies by campground. Not all beachfront campgrounds offer direct beach views or access. A visitor to Dellanera noted it is "as close to the water as you can get" while another camper pointed out that at Galveston Island State Park "the beach is not visible from any electric campsite- but it is a close walk to the beach."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Corner locations provide more space. End sites typically offer additional room and sometimes better views. A visitor to Galveston Island KOA noted they "had a corner site with dog pen" which provided more privacy than interior spots.
Hookup access: Some locations require longer hoses/cables. Position in relation to utility connections can affect setup. One camper at Sandpiper RV Resort mentioned, "Moving the RV wasn't an option because the electric wouldn't reach if I moved forward any further."
Leveling challenges: Some pads require significant adjustment. Despite concrete pads, some sites may still present leveling difficulties. A camper at Sandpiper RV Resort reported, "When I set the RV to level it jacked it up so high the tires came off the ground."
