Mathis, Texas sits approximately 40 miles northwest of Corpus Christi at an elevation of about 150 feet. The area experiences hot summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and mild winters with occasional freezes. Camping options near Mathis cluster around Lake Corpus Christi, a 21,000-acre reservoir created by damming the Nueces River, offering waterfront sites despite fluctuating water levels.
What to do
Hiking opportunities: Lake Corpus Christi State Park features limited trails, with some visitors noting their condition. "Not too much hiking here, but you can also walk the roads. Beautiful CCC building. Saw turtles near it in the lake," reports Emily M. from Lake Corpus Christi State Park Campground.
Wildlife viewing: The area's natural landscape supports diverse wildlife observation, particularly for bird enthusiasts. At Lake Corpus Christi State Park Campground, visitors mention "Howling coyotes nightly" as a natural soundtrack to their camping experience.
Fishing access: When water levels permit, fishing remains popular with dedicated facilities available. "Great aluminum floating fishing pier with a covered fish cleaning pavilion" exists at Lake Corpus Christi State Park according to reviewer Napunani.
Animal encounters: Some campgrounds offer unique opportunities for campers to interact with animals. "There is a petting zoo with miniature donkeys and horses, goats and emus! This was a wonderful treat feeding the critters," shares Nick & Allyssa S. about Mustang Hollow Campground.
What campers like
Full hookup affordability: The region offers budget-friendly camping options. "Only $25 for full hookups, $15 for just water and electric, $10 for tents, $5 day fee. Lots of shade, lots of room in the FCU sites," notes Michael M. at Lake Corpus Christi State Park Campground.
Quiet environment: Many campers appreciate the peaceful setting. "We stayed overnight while traveling. It was pretty quiet even though near 1/4 mile, the highway. Good cable tv," states Richard G. about Hitching Post RV Park.
Convenient location: The strategic positioning allows for regional exploration. "Driving distance to Corpus, Port Aransas, Padre, Victoria, King ranch, We visited all these places. Right next to Corpus Christi Lake & park," mentions Mike D. from Wilderness Lakes RV Resort.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained amenities enhance the camping experience. "The staff is great for scheduling entertainment, outings, cleaning, & security. Bathrooms, showers, laundry are up to date & clean," continues Mike D. about Wilderness Lakes RV Resort.
What you should know
Site conditions vary: Expect differences in site quality and maintenance across campgrounds. "Unlevel side-to-side concert site parking pad was in poor condition and barely long enough for 28 ft trailer," notes one Lake Corpus Christi State Park visitor.
Weather considerations: The climate impacts camping comfort significantly. Summer heat requires preparation with adequate cooling options, while winter nights can bring unexpected temperature drops.
Lake water levels fluctuate: Water activities depend entirely on current conditions. "Water is really low so no boat access, still beaches though," observes Michael M. about Lake Corpus Christi State Park.
Infrastructure challenges: Some facilities need updating. "Overused park that desperately needs some infrastructure improvements... Septic system cleanout pipe smack in the middle of our campsite causing a tripping hazard," reports Napunani at Lake Corpus Christi State Park.
Pet-specific challenges: For pet friendly camping near Mathis, Texas, prepare for natural hazards. "EZ Living RV Park is an affordable quiet campground on the lake in South Texas. Beautfiul oak trees and sites are nicely kept. A perfect place to fish and very pet friendly. No extra fees for people or pets," shares Brandi B.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Prepare for limited structured recreation. "Pictures show a playground, dog park, etc., however, none of these things exist. It looks like they did at one point, but not in the last decade. No atvs or activities listed on website which was frustrating for the kids," shares a recent Mustang Hollow Campground visitor.
Family-oriented sites: Some campgrounds specifically cater to family groups. "We camped with 2 kids and a dog and had a great time. There was fishing and a lake some were swimming in. We searched for wildlife and made s'mores," notes Noelle S. about Mustang Island State Park Campground.
Wildlife education opportunities: Turn nature observation into learning experiences. Multiple campgrounds provide chances to spot local wildlife including birds, turtles, and coyotes.
Space considerations: Look for campgrounds offering adequate room for family setups. "Very large spacious campsite. Restroom and shower located very close by," reports Chris S. about Lake Corpus Christi State Park.
Tips from RVers
Hookup positioning: Pay attention to utility placement when selecting sites. "The utilities are on the wrong side of camper and your site is behind your camper in a shared space," warns Kristen W. about Mustang Island State Park.
Surface quality: Gravel and concrete pads vary in quality throughout the region. "Gravel roads but they are good roads. Speed bumps (and a very alert security) keep the traffic at a good speed limit," notes Mike D. about Wilderness Lakes RV Resort.
Privacy considerations: Many sites lack significant separation. "No vegetation between sites= no privacy from neighbors," mentions one Lake Corpus Christi State Park camper.
Practical amenities: Look for useful site features beyond basic hookups. "Real useful concrete patio w/ picnic table," highlights Cris C. regarding Wilderness Lakes RV Resort's pet friendly camping amenities near Mathis, Texas.
