Tent camping near Kemah, Texas concentrates on coastal sites spanning Surfside Beach, Follett's Island, and Bryan Beach. These locations feature firm sand beaches where standard vehicles can drive and park, typically 30-45 miles south of Kemah. During hurricane season (June through November), campers should monitor weather forecasts and be prepared for rapid evacuation if tropical systems develop in the Gulf of Mexico. Winter camping offers fewer insects but requires additional layers for cool nights.
What to do
Beach fishing access: Bryan Beach offers direct fishing access from your campsite. "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 Jimmy R. about Bryan Beach.
Stargazing opportunities: Surfside Beach provides excellent night sky viewing away from city lights. According to a camper at Surfside Beach Dispersed Camping, "Beautiful night stargazing and relaxing with the ocean waves. The days bright sun and cool water gave us great joy."
Morning beach walks: Early risers can enjoy solitude and wildlife spotting. "Sunrise was beautiful! I'll go again!" reports one Follett's Island camper who appreciated the peaceful mornings before day visitors arrived.
What campers like
Spacious beach camping: The wide beaches allow for privacy even during busy periods. "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," writes a reviewer at Follett's Island Beach.
Affordability: Most beach camping sites are free, requiring no permits or reservations. One camper states, "Hard to beat free camping on the beach," while describing their experience parked on the beach "with nobody else in sight."
Accessibility for standard vehicles: Despite being beach locations, most areas feature compacted sand suitable for non-4WD vehicles. "Very easy to access regardless of car type you have, won't get stuck in sand," reports Mitchell M. about his November camping experience.
What you should know
Insect preparation: Mosquitoes and biting flies present significant challenges, particularly at dusk. Ashley C. warns about Bryan Beach: "The biggest problem however, was the mosquitoes! At dusk we had to retreat to our tents immediately or be eaten alive. So beware!"
Limited amenities: Most beach camping areas lack fundamental facilities. A camper notes: "Free beach camping, No reservations needed! We went on a weekend late July 2021, NO PROBLEM finding space. NO amenities, water, showers or hookups of any kind."
Beach cleanliness varies: Debris often washes ashore, affecting camping conditions. "North part of island has LOTS of debris, dead trees, branches, etc," reports one camper, while Jimmy R. observes, "Be aware - junk washes up on shore frequent."
Tips for camping with families
Set up shade structures: Texas sun intensifies on open beaches with no natural shade. "Recommend some type of canopy or awning, Texas Sun is HOT!" advises a Surfside Beach camper who visited in July.
Beach access selection: Choose your entry point carefully for optimal camping conditions. "There are multiple beach access points and you can drive right on and drive where you need to get privacy," suggests Mitchell M. who found a clean area without debris.
Supply planning: Grocery and supply stores remain distant from camping areas. "Plan ahead, stores are few and far between," advises an experienced camper, while another notes, "Not much in the area so pack your pantry in advance."
Tips from RVers
Firm driving surfaces: Most beach areas support larger vehicles when proper routes are selected. "We drove our Class B on the beach and had it mostly to ourselves," reports Gary N. at Follett's Island Beach, adding, "Just what we were looking for."
Site selection for tide changes: Position RVs with attention to high tide marks. "We only had water touch our tires one night," mentions a camper who suggests careful parking spot selection, especially during hurricane season when tides run higher.
Off-season advantages: Winter months offer fewer crowds and insects. "Being November, the temperature was mild and there weren't that many bugs nor people," reports a camper who enjoyed camping 100-150 feet from the water's edge.
