Ingleside camping areas combine coastal prairie terrain with Gulf climate conditions. Average summer temperatures reach 90-95°F with high humidity levels, while winter temperatures typically range from 40-65°F. The sandy soil conditions throughout the area affect drainage during rainstorms, which typically occur most frequently during May through September.
What to do
Beach driving access: Port Aransas Permit Beach offers camping directly on the beach with a $12 annual permit. "Got very busy during spring break weekend, otherwise quiet," notes mark F. "You can drive right on the beach like a highway, in fact people do even in big rigs. You can park right on the beach," explains Starseed P. from Port Aransas Permit Beach.
Fishing opportunities: Try fishing from the jetty at IB Magee Beach County Park. "You can catch fish from the jetty and a quick walk to the beach. The sunsets are beautiful," shares Rocco from IB Magee Beach County Park. The concrete pads provide stable setup for fishing gear storage.
Wildlife viewing: Explore Charlie's Pasture wildlife refuge behind Port A RV Resort. "We try to get a site on the back row, that backs up to Charlie's Pasture a wildlife refuge," recommends Sheila C. "This RV park is so friendly. They are back up to a game reserve that is next to a small airport. Lots of birds to see," adds Holly S.
What campers like
Convenient location: Aransas Pass RV & Storage puts campers within 5 minutes of essential services. "The location is incredibly convenient— just a 5-minute drive to H-E-B and Walmart, which made stocking up a breeze," reports janet S. from Aransas Pass RV & Storage. Pet owners appreciate the quick access to supplies.
Beach boardwalk access: Gulf Waters RV Resort offers direct beach access via boardwalk. "The highlight for me was the proximity of this resort to the beach. Just a short walk to the boardwalk over the dunes and you're there! Just beautiful," writes Susan L. from Gulf Waters RV Resort. "Really awesome" outdoor cooking areas with tiki structures provide protection from sun and rain, adds andrew.
Site spacing: IB Magee Beach County Park features concrete pads with generous spacing. "Spacious sites, long level, concrete pads (70' or so)," notes Pedro C. "The sites are all huge concrete pads and spaced far apart," confirms Valerie B.
What you should know
Wildlife cautions: Coyotes frequent some campground areas. "Downside: lots of burrs in the grass and coyotes live right behind the campground. They have apparently taken peoples dogs," warns Valerie B. Pedro C. advises, "Do not leave you pooch tired up unattended outside, as there is a pack of coyotes they sneak around especially after dark."
Sand management: Beach sand requires extra consideration. "Be ready to deal with fine sand in your rv and everything," cautions Rocco from Mustang Island State Park Campground. "Being that this is Texas, it's super hot all day and all night long. It's worse when there is no shade to shield you," adds Andrea F.
Utilities placement: Check hookup locations at each campground. "All utilities are located at the rear of the pads on the driver's side rear corner. Took one, 25' water hose, 2 slinky's to reach the sewer drain," reports Pedro C. Some campgrounds have unusual site layouts with utilities on unexpected sides.
Tips for camping with families
Beach site selection: At Mustang Island State Park, choose primitive beach sites for more space. "If you prefer your space, book in advance and secure one of the few beach primitive spots where you can pick your tent pitch locale," advises Gretchen N. "Beautiful sandy beach in an unspoiled, undeveloped natural area," adds Eric B.
Activity options: Pioneer Beach Resort offers multiple recreation options. "There is a pen for dogs to play and easy boardwalk access to the beach through the dunes. People are great and a fun family atmosphere," says Lamar M. from Pioneer Beach Resort. "Two pools, rec center, activities. Best part is the boardwalk to the beach where you can drive over with your golf cart."
Weather preparation: Plan for Texas coastal weather variables. "It was surprisingly windy to be behind a dune, but since it's still the beach, that's somewhat expected," shares Talon W. "Wind and rain rocked us to sleep in the RV and woke up to a cool breeze with clear sunny skies," adds Daniel B.
Tips from RVers
Pet area assessment: Check pet exercise areas thoroughly before arrival. "Mosquitoes in the evenings and mornings are intense especially around the ponds and grassy areas. So if you have pets be prepared to get eaten!!! The pet areas are close to the ponds and are small to say the least," warns Dustin D. B.
Internet reliability: Internet access varies widely between campgrounds. "We use Verizon, always had 1 to 2 bars of service," reports Pedro C. "Cable tv included, wifi good but not the best, cuts out and has to be reestablished but still works good throughout the park," notes Jeff S. from Ransom Road RV Park.
Site measurements: Verify exact site dimensions for larger rigs. "Sites are good size, staff friendly," reports Andy P. "The only downside to the park, is the small cramped sites. But in Port A they are pretty much all like that," mentions Sheila C.
