Goliad State Park offers pet friendly camping options along the San Antonio River in south-central Texas. The park encompasses historic Spanish colonial sites including a 16th-century mission while providing campers access to trails and river activities. Winter temperatures typically range from 40-70°F, while summer months can exceed 95°F with high humidity, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons.
What to do
Historic exploration: Visit the Presidio La Bahia located about 3 miles from the main campground. "Built by the Spanish army in the mid 1700s. Home of the Goliath massacre. If you enjoy history, you're really gonna love the goalie at State park," notes Red S. from Goliad State Park and Historic Site.
Fishing opportunities: Cast a line in the San Antonio River or visit nearby lakes. "Camped with all 5 of our little ones, great campground, staff was friendly and helpful and the store right by the park gates sells hard wood firewood for a decent price," reports drew S. from Coleto Creek Reservoir and Park.
Paddle trail: Kayak the 6-mile paddle trail along the San Antonio River. "Well maintained park, close to Presidio and Goliad downtown. Nice bike trail and paddle destination," according to John H. from Longhorn Camping Area.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Campsites offer room to spread out with your pets. "Each site is very spacious. Lots of trees and shade for South Texas. Bathrooms were ok. Lots of bugs but clean," says Katie M. from Goliad State Park and Historic Site.
Town amenities: The historic downtown district provides shopping and dining options. "I would recommend going into town and checking out all of the shops. There are a lot of eclectic items for sale," suggests Jeff H. from Vaquero Camping Area.
Wildlife viewing: Watch for deer and birds throughout the park. "Lots of deer roaming the FHU campground," mentions Napunani from Coleto Creek Reservoir. The park's various habitats support diverse wildlife viewing opportunities for visitors and their pets.
What you should know
Insect awareness: Prepare for seasonal bug activity beyond just fire ants. "The sites weren't too bad, but there were a lot of ants and insects around that's even more than usual. Definitely bring a tent screen. I don't think it's specific to the campsite as there were insects all around town, or probably due to the time of year," advises Bree W. from Goliad State Park.
Limited facilities: Some camping areas have minimal bathroom facilities. "Bathroom facilities are old and small. Cleanliness was ok, but moldy shower curtains are gross. (Womens and Men's each have one shower and both curtains were moldy)," reports Ari A. from Jacales Camping Area.
Noise considerations: Some camping areas experience more noise than others. "Close to road, 9 million dogs barking all around, loud music after midnight. Awful," cautions Frank W. from Goliad State Park. Choose sites farther from roads if traveling with noise-sensitive pets.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Young children will enjoy the basic play equipment. "There is a small playground for the kids - perfect for our ages (3,5 &7)," shares Denise M. from Jacales Camping Area.
Educational opportunities: Combine outdoor recreation with Texas history lessons. "This Texas State Park is located in Goliad Texas. This is in the south central area of the state between Victoria and Austin on Highway 183. The park has some great historical sites including a 16th century Spanish mission," notes Steve & Ashley G.
Family-friendly layout: The camping loops accommodate various family needs. "This campground has loops for travel trailers and test sites. It has pull-through, shaded sites. It is a clean campground with a relaxed atmosphere. We have camped here many times and have enjoyed each trip," recommends Donna M. from Vaquero Camping Area.
Tips from RVers
Alternative RV parks: Consider private RV parks for pet friendly camping near Goliad. "Gravel pads. New hookups," notes Shiner T. about Angels In Goliad RV Park, which offers clean, spacious sites with full hookups.
Site selection: Choose sites based on shade coverage for summer visits. "We stayed at site 14. It looks like number 17 and number 19 are real shady," recommends Kimberly V. from Longhorn Camping Area, important information for keeping pets comfortable in hot weather.
Amenities check: Verify facility conditions before booking. "The site is smallish but clean and easy to hookup. The staff was extremely nice," shares Jacob K. from Victoria Coleto Creek Lake KOA, located about 20 miles from Goliad.
