Camping options near Galveston stretch across the coastal plains and wetlands of southeast Texas, an area characterized by subtropical climate with hot, humid summers and mild winters. The region sits at an average elevation of just 7 feet above sea level, making it vulnerable to seasonal flooding during hurricane season from June through November. Most Galveston area campgrounds remain open year-round, though early spring and late fall offer more moderate temperatures than the 90°F+ summer heat.
What to do
Alligator viewing: Brazos Bend State Park offers some of the most reliable wildlife watching in the region. "If you go on a moderate temperature day (this is the key. If it is too hot or cold you won't see Gators) you can see literally dozens of massive alligators. We are talking 6 feet long and right on the pathway," shares one visitor at Brazos Bend State Park Campground.
Stargazing: Visit the observatory at night for an unexpected astronomy experience. "The best part of this park is the observatory, which has special events and regular weekend hours pretty much all year. It's absolutely worth staying up late for this!" notes a camper. The observatory hosts weekend programs throughout the year.
Fishing: Try shoreline fishing without extra permits at state parks. "We took our inflatable boat out on the bay, went fishing (no license needed at a state park) and went to the Oceanside beach," explains a visitor at Galveston Island State Park Campground.
What campers like
Renovated facilities: Galveston Island State Park has undergone significant improvements. "Beach side is very nice since being remodeled. Great back in sites. Nice electrical and water service towers at sites. Great walking paths. Electric and water sites; nice dump station," reports a recent visitor.
Concrete pads: Many RV parks in the area feature level, stable parking. "This is a newer resort with concrete pads and level sites. The resort is clean and well kept. Pool is located next to Jarbo Bayou for birdwatching, kayaking and fishing," notes a guest at Brickhouse RV Resort.
Historical connections: Some camping areas offer unexpected historical significance. "Cool Texas history here too!" mentions a visitor at Fort Anahuac Park. "Fort Anahuac Park has connections to The Alamo," explains another camper who appreciated the historical plaques throughout the park.
What you should know
Mosquitoes can be intense: Be prepared for biting insects, especially in warmer months. "The only downside? The mosquitoes!! Right at dusk they attacked with a vengeance. Be prepared for that!" warns a camper at Galveston Island State Park.
Weather impacts: Coastal location means storms can move in quickly. A visitor at Fort Anahuac Park recalled: "Arrived here just before a big thunderstorm rolled in. But it was super cool to watch as the lights of Houston illuminated the sky across the bay."
Camping permits: Some county parks require permits from local offices. "To camp you must be fully self contained, there are no hookups. You may see power in the park but that is for use at festivals, etc. Not for campers. Obtain a camping permit from the Commissioner Office," advises a camper at Fort Anahuac Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple parks offer recreational facilities for children. Camp Mohawk County Park provides "pavilions, playgrounds, a pool, baseball and basketball courts. You can boat around the pond. They do have cabins to rent," according to a visitor.
Educational opportunities: Wildlife viewing can be educational. "There is a small nature centre where you can pet baby Gators and learn about them. Lots of pretty trails and look outs," notes a Brazos Bend visitor.
Short trail options: Look for easy paths suitable for younger hikers. "Lots of day use activity. Shady camp sites! Nice basic tent camping with clean facilities," mentions a Camp Mohawk County Park visitor who appreciated the accessibility.
Tips from RVers
Electricity considerations: Check electrical service before plugging in. "Incorrect wiring with the 50 amp service destroyed our fridges and microwave," cautions a camper at Palms RV Park, highlighting the importance of using a surge protector.
Site spacing: RV sites vary widely in terms of privacy and spacing. "The sites are fairly close to each other, but for some reason, every third site was blocked off, which gave us more space," notes a Galveston Island State Park visitor.
Dump station access: Not all sites have sewer hookups. "Great electric and water sites; nice dump station," mentions a camper who appreciated the convenient facilities at Galveston Island State Park after their glamping near Galveston experience.
