Best Camping near Padre Island National Seashore

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Padre Island National Seashore. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Padre Island National Seashore, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Padre Island National Seashore. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Best Camping Sites Near Padre Island National Seashore, TX (102)

Showing results 1-10 of 102 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Padre Island National Seashore

Recent Reviews in Padre Island National Seashore

259 Reviews of 102 Padre Island National Seashore Campgrounds


  • John C.
    Camper-submitted photo from Firefly Coastal Bend- Corpus Christi
    Oct. 14, 2024

    Firefly Coastal Bend- Corpus Christi

    The people at Firefly are CROOKS!

    Good day- My name is John and my wife and I live in Dana, North Carolina... Just south of Asheville. Back in May, I had booked two(2) RV spots(one for us and one for dear friends coming in from California). I booked for a week, running from 5- 12 October, at a total(pre-paid) cost of$1,433. However, on Friday, 27 September(8 days before our trip), our region experienced Hurricane Helene. One hundred and twenty feet of our driveway was wiped out- totally washed away. The main road to our home was also washed away. Roads in and out of the area were destroyed and there were thousands of downed trees and power poles. The destruction was and remains hard to convey. We lost power and all communications for 13 days. We had no way in or out of our property for over a week. On Monday, 30 September, I was able to hike out to our local post office where I found I had one bar on my phone. I called family and friends, including the other couple that we were supposed to meet At the Firefly RV Resort. I explained the situation to them and asked them to call Firefly, cancel the reservation and,(given the circumstances) ask for a refund. The staff at Firefly were beyond rude and refused any consideration of a refund. When pressed on the matter by our friends, and stressing the dire conditions that all of North Carolina was facing, the Manager at Firefly told our friends the following-- and this is a direct quote:"Well, if the government would stop sending money to Ukraine, maybe they would have money to give to North Carolina." Enough said. I would strongly ask all conscientious RV-ers to BOYCOTT the Firefly RV Resort.

  • Kasey L.
    Camper-submitted photo from Firefly Coastal Bend- Corpus Christi
    Sep. 18, 2024

    Firefly Coastal Bend- Corpus Christi

    Firefly Coastal Bend

    Firefly Coastal Bend Resort in Corpus Christi is the perfect getaway! The resort is incredibly family-friendly and pet-friendly, making it an ideal destination for everyone. The private beach is stunning, and the fishing spots are fantastic for those looking to relax by the water. The staff is amazing—always helpful and welcoming—and the management company is doing a phenomenal job keeping everything running smoothly. We can’t wait to come back and make even more memories here!

  • Kristine R.
    Camper-submitted photo from Sea Grass RV Resort
    Sep. 14, 2024

    Sea Grass RV Resort

    Absolutely perfect!

    Amazing pool. Clean. Large space. Staff that is attentive to the needs of the customer. Artificial grass and palapa for shade and to limit mosquitos. We will definitely be back.

  • A
    Camper-submitted photo from Community RV Resort
    Sep. 9, 2024

    Community RV Resort

    Brand new Resort

    Large brand new resort with comercial laundry, pool, hot tub, great internet pool and hot tub. Very clean

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Port Aransas Permit Beach
    Sep. 1, 2024

    Port Aransas Permit Beach

    Another Great Stay

    This is our second time to Boondock on the beach. We were at marker 25 and once again thoroughly enjoyed it. It was Labor Day weekend so it was PACKED. People will pile in on top of you, but that’s the way it is. Not enough beach for so many people. The meter maid lady will harass you endlessly, but we just ignored her and continued having fun. There is a 3 night maximum in a 21 day period. Don’t try to outsmart the meter maid. She takes pictures of license plates and writes down the departure dates. She enjoys enforcing the rules.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Mustang Island State Park Campground
    Jul. 30, 2024

    Mustang Island State Park Campground

    Small RV Campground

    It was a very short visit—one night. The campsite we stayed in had only a 50-amp connector, even though we needed thirty amps. We didn't test the receptacle to see if they were sending 30 amps through a 50-amp plug. The campground is very close to the Gulf. The beach is divided into three sections; the center is for people only. The left and right sections four wheel drive vehicles can drive on the beach until 10 pm. There are no issues at all, but you are not allowed to drink alcohol on the beach. I expect the fine would be steep but we didn't see any rangers at night. You can ⛺ camp at night. We drove on the beach without a four-sprinter—mostly packed sand. If you are going to take risks, I would check the tides. Our sprinter is heavy. If we got stuck, we would have to call a wrecker, which would have been pricy. We were one of two B vans camping. All of the 4 by-4 were light and would probably not be able to pull us out. We don't have max tracks or a winch. The park has day passes for 7 dollars, the campsite was between 20 through 30 dollars.

  • Jeff F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Ancient Oaks RV Park
    Jun. 11, 2024

    Ancient Oaks RV Park

    Great place to stay

    Very friendly staff, down home type. New electric utility posts, clean showers and great location with Live Oak trees. Just over 1 mile to the beach. We stayed last minute on a weekend and we're taken warmly taken in. We'll spend time here again

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Port Aransas Permit Beach
    Jun. 9, 2024

    Port Aransas Permit Beach

    Great Stay

    We are Boondocking at MM 27 there are of course no hookups but I.B Magee allows you to dump and fill your tanks for $10. People pile on top of you during the day and we got a $281 ticket for parking parallel to the beach (we thought you only had to be perpendicular at the posts). That’s all the bad. Literally it. The beach is beautiful, the breeze is so nice we didn’t even run our generator during the day, the people are so fun, and the luxury of not packing our stuff up to drive to the beach every day is wonderful. We are already planning our next trip.

  • Terran B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Padre Balli County Park
    Mar. 20, 2024

    Padre Balli County Park

    It's fine.

    The price was right and I had water and electric hookups, but basically I was in a parking lot and all the grass around is full of briars. Made it really hard to walk the dog. Proximity to the beach was also really, if only the weather was a little better. The showers are a quarter pay situation and I paid $1.50 for a cold shower. When I went to ask the front office about it, they basically said "sometimes you have to run the sink for a minute". Sorry, but I am paying quarters for a shower that never gets warm that's a big dissapointment and then to met with indifference about it, hence the two stars. I also don't like that you don't get to pick your spot, you just show up, pay and they tell you where you are staying. It was the off season, so maybe things are better in full swing summer.

  • R
    Camper-submitted photo from South Beach — Padre Island National Seashore
    Mar. 10, 2024

    South Beach — Padre Island National Seashore

    South Beach, Padre Island National Seashore

    We've spent many winter months around the Corpus Christi, Texas area and visit South Beach frequently. Plenty to do; fishing, sunbathing, bird watching, photography, and on some evenings after dark you can spot deer and coyote come out of the sand dunes to feed on seaweed and fish remains. We prefer to camp at nearby Malequite campground for $5 a night with water, bathrooms and showers. The visitor's center has some supplies.

  • PThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Port A RV Resort
    Jan. 11, 2024

    Port A RV Resort

    port A Rv Resort

    We ended up staying 3 months. December, January and February. Love every minute of it. The staff is every helpful

  • Star J.
    Camper-submitted photo from Port Aransas Permit Beach
    Dec. 5, 2023

    Port Aransas Permit Beach

    great

    It sounds like Port Aransas offers a fantastic beach experience! The allowance for small campfires adds a cozy touch for those cookie clicker who want to enjoy the beach atmosphere well into the evening.

  • Erich H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from IB Magee Beach County Park
    Nov. 19, 2023

    IB Magee Beach County Park

    Perfect place to enjoy Port Aransas Beaches.

    The campground is managed through the county. From what we understand, they rebuilt it after previous hurricane damage. All pads are concrete with new hookups. Granted, the city allows boondocking on the beach if one wants to tackle that. But this park is the best I have seen on the island. Pads have a patio but do not have fire rings and picnic tables. everything else was great. The only downside was there are sticker burs everywhere. Victorias on the Bay is a great restaurant with a great atmosphere. Also, recommend Port A carts for golf cart rental. They currently have reduced rates. They operate out of the Port A Icecream Shop around the corner. One place I recommend everyone to steer clear is Castaways Seafood and Grill. The food was cold and bland, the service was slow. On our first night here, unbeknown to us, they charge a Cashless Transaction fee and apply sales tax to the fee itself. This question of business practice is not posted anywhere in the restaurant, instead, it is placed at the very bottom of the menu. I challenged this with the manager(Beverly) and she basically said to pay in cash or I could call the cops. She was rude and obnoxious. I can not confirm if other restaurants practice this, but always make sure to ask upfront. The is one grocery(IGA) on the island, a Whataburger, and shops galor. This place is busy during the summer months.

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from Mustang Island State Park Campground
    Nov. 11, 2023

    Mustang Island State Park Campground

    No thills here

    The camp ground’s only redemption is the closeness to the national park. There is really nothing there that would you wanna stay there except for that. Next time I would rathe stay at a camp ground one hour drive away from the national park in exchange for a better site.

  • Traci K.
    Camper-submitted photo from Bay View RV Resort
    Sep. 9, 2023

    Bay View RV Resort

    Love it

    I have lived and worked here for 6 years now. Absolutely love the wildlife and birding. This place is very rustic and natural as possible. I host the Hummingbird Celebration site now known as Hummer Hill across from 219. This event is the second week of September for the big Hummingbird migration south.

  • Bryce M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Port Aransas Permit Beach
    Sep. 8, 2023

    Port Aransas Permit Beach

    Tons of space to set up camp

    Port Aransas offers miles of beach designated for camping and day use. You must have a beach camping permit to stay overnight. Weekends get a little crowded during the day, but it quiets down in the afternoon.

    Watch out for coyotes! They are everywhere and can be aggressive. We had at least 5 in the area, but they never came closer than about 50ft away.

  • mitch M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from North Beach — Padre Island National Seashore
    Jul. 6, 2023

    North Beach — Padre Island National Seashore

    Summer beach camping

    Pull up, pick your spot, set up camp and enjoy. I suggest bringing fresh water to rinse off. Make sure you look at the beach to make sure you're not in reach of the tide. Those are probably the 2 most important things.

  • Robert
    Camper-submitted photo from Rockport RV Resort by Rjourney
    Jul. 1, 2023

    Rockport RV Resort by Rjourney

    Great place to stay

    I have been at this park off and on for four years. Have seen several changes many for the best. The park staff will go out of the way to help you if they can. They have come under fire lately for many things that are out of their control. Upper management makes the rules and require the staff to implement and inforce them. Last year we became full time winter texans. We checked out many places and found this park to be one of the best. A lot of people are upset about becoming kid friendly! Some of us that stay here have kids and grand kids and believe kid friendly is a great thing. Some people need to stop and realize that this is a business. And if not happy with them quietly move on to somewhere else and find out what they don’t like about that park! Because no park is perfect. Life is not perfect either. Congrats to the staff of Rjourney Rockport please keep up the wonderful work you all DO!

  • Napunani
    Camper-submitted photo from Silver Oaks RV Airstream Park
    Jun. 26, 2023

    Silver Oaks RV Airstream Park

    Nice Small Campground Next to a Noisy Highway

    PROS 

    Owner, Doc, an Airstream aficionado, is extremely nice and friendly 

    Upon arrival, we were invited by Doc to walk the 2.5 acres campground and select a site

    Campsite#4 concert pad level with some shade 

    City water pressure good during our mid-week stay 

    Meticulously manicured lawn and trees throughout the campground 

    Gravel roadway 

    Campsites have concrete patio surrounded by gravel and grass 

    Nice space between campsites 

    Entrance gates closed at night (not locked) 

    2 washers ($1.50) and 2 dryers available in a stand-alone building 

    Park WIFI available, but we did not use 

    T-MOBILE 2 bars 

    CONS 

    This campground is located along TX35 (4-lane highway) which there was non-stop traffic noise 

    Bring your longest stinky slinky as we needed 25 feet to make connection at Campsite 4 

    Campground bathhouse is a single bathroom in a stand-alone pod-type structure, which was out of service during our 3 night stay 

    Our $50 reservation deposit made via Zelle (36 days prior to arriving) was changed upon our arrival to a damage deposit. We were advised if there is no damage to our campsite upon our departure,$50 would be returned after we departed and it was returned just prior to our departure 

    Campground web page states Military Discount Rate, but no Veteran discount 

    No campsite picnic table or campfire ring, but you can bring-your-own above ground campfire pit and operate off the grassy areas 

    No pool or hot tub 

    Had to sign 8-page PARK AGREEMENT upon check-in but never provided a receipt for my cash payment(no credit cards accepted)

  • Melanie T.
    Camper-submitted photo from Surfside RV Resort
    Jun. 21, 2023

    Surfside RV Resort

    Beach life

    This campground is amazing!!! The staff is very friendly & helpful. Perfect location. About 2 blocks from the beach. Restaurants and site seeing a few more blocks away. Nice & quiet well kept place. Level concrete pads. Plenty of regularly mowed grass for dogs.

  • Clint C.
    Camper-submitted photo from Rockport RV Resort by Rjourney
    Apr. 17, 2023

    Rockport RV Resort by Rjourney

    What a joke

    This campground keeps shouting “fun family activities”. So they advertise all over town about this great eggstravaganza they are going to have for all the kids not only in the park but in the area.  The event is over,  the kids are going through their loot, smiles on everyone’s faces. Then park employees start telling the kids “ oh, by the way, we want the eggs back”. What a hoot!

  • MaryLarry L.
    Camper-submitted photo from Rockport RV Resort by Rjourney
    Apr. 15, 2023

    Rockport RV Resort by Rjourney

    Winter Texans Beware

    Mr.& Ms. Scout,  We were Winter Texans for 3 years at (Circle W) until it was taken over by RJourney.  We never were part of the cliques that you indicated were in the park.  We were part of a large family of friends, both Winter Texans and year round residents.  The main reason we left was the taking away of the tow sewing rooms for "family" rooms.  There were several sewers that used these rooms to make quilts that were given to local charities and organizations in the community.  With all the activities they have taken away there is not much for all to do.  They do have a nice pool & hot tub.  Also no hot water in bathrooms in the clubhouse.

  • Josh M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Hatch RV Park
    Apr. 15, 2023

    Hatch RV Park

    Run down

    This is one of the more rundown campgrounds that we have stayed at and it needs a lot of work.



Guide to Padre Island National Seashore

Camping near Padre Island National Seashore, Texas, offers a unique blend of beach vibes and outdoor adventure. With several campgrounds to choose from, you can find the perfect spot to set up your tent or park your RV.

What to do:

  • Beach Activities: Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and fishing right from the shore. One camper mentioned, "You can catch fish from the jetty and a quick walk to the beach. The sunsets are beautiful," highlighting the scenic views and fishing opportunities.
  • Wildlife Watching: The area is great for birdwatching and spotting local wildlife. A visitor noted, "We prefer to camp at nearby Malaquite campground for $5 a night with water, bathrooms, and showers," emphasizing the natural beauty and wildlife diversity.
  • Exploring Nearby Towns: Take a short drive to Port Aransas for local shops and restaurants. A reviewer shared, "The location is very convenient to exploring the nearby towns and Padre Island," making it easy to enjoy local culture.

What campers like:

  • Proximity to the Beach: Campgrounds like Mustang Island State Park Campground are just steps away from the beach. One camper said, "If you want to be close to the beach and have electric and water hookups, this is the campground!"
  • Clean Facilities: Many campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. A visitor at Port A RV Resort remarked, "The staff is super friendly. The location is convenient to all the Port A attractions and the beach."
  • Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds often have a welcoming vibe. A reviewer at Gulf Waters Beach Front RV Resort stated, "The staff is outstanding & all the amenities are top-notch."

What you should know:

  • Crowded During Peak Season: Expect busy beaches and campgrounds during summer. One camper noted, "It was Labor Day weekend so it was PACKED," which can make finding a quiet spot challenging.
  • Limited Amenities at Some Sites: Some campgrounds, like Malaquite Campground, lack electric hookups and have only cold showers. A visitor mentioned, "There is no electric or water so be prepared, only cold water shower but incredible sunsets and sunrises."
  • Permits Required for Beach Camping: If you plan to camp on the beach, make sure to get a permit. A camper at Port Aransas Permit Beach warned, "Don’t try to outsmart the meter maid. She takes pictures of license plates and writes down the departure dates."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with amenities like clean bathrooms and picnic areas. A parent at IB Magee Beach County Park said, "The campground is managed through the county... All pads are concrete with new hookups."
  • Plan for Activities: Bring beach toys and games to keep kids entertained. One camper suggested, "Hiking up the dunes in the evening and morning for wonderful sunrises and sets."
  • Stay Safe: Keep an eye on children, especially near the water. A reviewer warned about coyotes, stating, "Do not leave your pooch tied up unattended outside, as there is a pack of coyotes they sneak around especially after dark."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Some campgrounds have tight parking spots. A visitor at Pioneer Beach Resort mentioned, "The spaces are a little tight but adequate."
  • Bring Your Own Supplies: Many campgrounds don’t have stores nearby. A camper advised, "Make sure you stock up on firewood before coming into the park!"
  • Be Prepared for Weather: The coastal weather can change quickly. One RV enthusiast noted, "The weather has been in the mid-80s... We came from 100s in central west Texas."

Camping near Padre Island National Seashore, Texas, is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors while soaking up the sun and surf. Whether you're tent camping or RVing, there's something for everyone in this beautiful area.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Padre Island National Seashore?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Padre Island National Seashore offers a wide range of camping options, with 102 campgrounds and RV parks near Padre Island National Seashore and 4 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Padre Island National Seashore?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Padre Island National Seashore is Mustang Island State Park Campground with a 4.2-star rating from 30 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Padre Island National Seashore?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 free dispersed camping spots near Padre Island National Seashore.

  • What parks are near Padre Island National Seashore?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 1 parks near Padre Island National Seashore that allow camping, notably Canyon Lake and Somerville Lake.