Matagorda sits at the convergence of the Colorado River and Gulf of Mexico, with an average elevation of 13 feet above sea level. The coastal prairie ecosystem features salt marshes and sand dunes, with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F. Camping options include both established RV parks with full hookups and primitive beach camping where vehicles require 4-wheel drive to navigate sandy terrain.
What to do
Beach exploration and shell collecting: At Matagorda Beach Dispersed Camping, the shoreline offers abundant shell collecting opportunities. "Plenty of driftwood to gather for huge bonfires that we do every time we go. Very secluded, usually no one passes by if you down far enough," notes NickFromTexas, who recommends getting "a beach parking permit from the gas station before crossing the bridge, costs $10."
Fishing from various access points: The junction of river and Gulf provides multiple fishing environments. At Jetty Park, Crystal E. describes it as a "Great location at the junction of the Colorado River and the Gulf of Mexico," while Jenise notes the campground has "2 large wooden Colorado River fishing piers which are lighted from dusk to dawn" with dedicated fish cleaning stations.
Interactive nature exhibits: Visit the nature center at Matagorda Bay Nature Park for educational displays. "Nature center with interactive exhibits, gift shop, snacks, mini golf and 5 minute walk to beach. Great sunset viewing," mentions Crystal E., while Joel B. adds it's a "Clean park with nice amenities. Great location. Easy beach access."
What campers like
Waterfront camping views: Riverside sites offer prime sunset viewing locations. At FM 521 River Park, Ang W. describes it as a "Beautiful place" where despite "the highway being so close, it's really nice. Can't complain...it's freeeee!" Larry R. from Riverside Park appreciates how one camping loop "has electricity and water on the Hossey Slough and is accessed on a gravel road and the sites are also gravel. It has a very rustic feel and is beautiful."
Morning coffee with waterfront views: Many campgrounds position sites to maximize water views. At Serendipity Bay RV Resort, Jon L. "Enjoyed the peaceful sunrises and sunsets and the constant breeze was a plus to keep the humidity and heat down," while Leticia M. from Jetty Park states "The view to drink coffee to in the morning was priceless."
Clean, well-maintained facilities: Regular maintenance keeps amenities functional. At Riverside Park, Larry R. notes "The bathrooms are older, but spacious and clean," while Joel B. describes Matagorda Bay Nature Park as a "Clean park with nice amenities."
What you should know
Mosquitoes require preparation: Coastal humidity creates ideal conditions for insects. Jon L. from Serendipity Bay RV Resort advises to "Take plenty of anti-mosquito repellent, as around mid-morning and late afternoon, the mosquitoes come out in force," while Leticia M. warns "The mosquitoes at night were insane."
Limited shade throughout the area: Most dog friendly campgrounds near Matagorda lack significant tree cover. At Jetty Park, Dan D. notes "their is absolutely no shade at all but other than that it's a beautiful little spot," while Debbie J. suggests "I think it's best to go in the fall or spring" because of the lack of shade.
Thorny vegetation can injure pet paws: Pet owners should monitor their dogs closely when walking. Debbie J. cautions "There are a lot of prickly thorns, so need to be careful walking dogs, as they tend to pick up thorns easily," making protective booties advisable for pet-friendly camping near Matagorda.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access with children: Some beaches require additional planning for safe access. Karissa D. at Matagorda Bay Nature Park appreciated being "Close to the beach which made it easy to take a break to allow my toddler to take a nap," while Crystal E. notes it's only "5 minute walk to beach" from the nature center.
Playground facilities: Limited structured play areas exist in the region. 60 North RV Park received praise from Kartik K. who reports "we played sports and other physical games kids enjoyed very much there," noting the "ground was green" providing space for recreation.
Environmental education opportunities: Wildlife viewing opportunities abound for educational experiences. At Matagorda Bay Nature Park, Napunani mentions a "Saturday morning 1.5 hour guided Gulf beach walk ($5/pp) by Paige and Whitley. Paige knew her 'stuff' as she was pelted continuously with questions and she never missed a beat!"
Tips from RVers
Level concrete pads: Most established campgrounds provide stable parking surfaces. At Travelers Paradise RV Park, Matt B. highlights the "concrete spots, plenty of shade, wind blocks," along with being a "gated all the way around" facility, while Napunani at Matagorda Bay Nature Park mentions "Level concrete parking pad surrounded by grass. Back-ins and drive-thrus."
Sewer connection placement: Some sites offer flexibility with multiple connection points. Napunani notes "Two sewer hook-up outlets" at Matagorda Bay Nature Park, allowing for easier RV positioning depending on your rig's configuration.
Limited privacy between sites: Most pet friendly RV parks near Matagorda position sites close together. Jon L. from Serendipity Bay RV Resort cautions about "Sites very close together with little room to set up outside between RVs. Very little room to park vehicle once RV is in place and limited space to back in," while Napunani confirms "Absolutely no trees or vegetation between sites which equals NO SHADE and NO PRIVACY."
Electrical service options: Most parks offer 50-amp service for larger power requirements. Stuart K. at Serendipity Bay RV Resort paid "a few more dollars to have a pull thru site with FHU, cable & level concrete pad," while Matt B. notes Travelers Paradise offers "full hookups" along with shower, laundry and trash onsite.
