Tent camping near Pasadena, Texas features a combination of coastal and inland options within a 50-mile radius. The Gulf Coast climate creates humid conditions with average summer temperatures reaching 92°F and winter lows around 45°F. Camping areas range from free beach dispersed sites to established campgrounds with basic amenities, with the coastal options requiring preparation for salt spray and occasional strong winds.
What to do
Beachside activities: At Surfside Beach Dispersed Camping, visitors can enjoy surf fishing, swimming, and stargazing. "Beautiful night stargazing and relaxing with the ocean waves. The days bright sun and cool water gave us great joy," reports camper Alana B.
Wildlife watching: Job Beason Park offers opportunities to observe coastal birds and marine life. The park includes basic facilities like toilets and drinking water for day-use and overnight camping, with trash disposal available onsite.
Sunset photography: Capture Gulf Coast sunsets from Follett's Island Beach. "The stars were excellent at night and the sea breeze made for amazing sleeping weather. The morning brought warm sun which allowed for a pleasant frolic in the ocean after waking," notes camper Nat&Rach C.
What campers like
Privacy options: Follett's Island Beach provides ample space for solitude during weekdays. "I moved up here from Access Road #1 two days ago to get away from people and noise congestion and was successful," shares Lisa S., who recommends the less congested Access Roads #4 and #5.
Hard-packed driving conditions: Most vehicles can access the beach areas without specialized equipment. "Free beach camping between access 3 and 5. Sand is not soft so no 4x4 required," confirms Stefan H., who camped at Follett's Island in December.
Cost-free camping: Surfside Beach offers no-fee camping directly on the shoreline. "This is theeeeee spot to be! You can drive right on the beach! Sunsets are amazing but watch out for the bugs at night!" advises Lexi W.
What you should know
Beach access points: The 13-mile stretch along Follett's Island Beach has several numbered entry roads. "It's tricky to find because there are only two access roads and you have to drive one way on the beach, so don't miss the small sign that says free beach access road," explains Andrea P.
Self-sufficiency required: Bring all supplies including water, food, and waste disposal methods. "You have to be self sustained since there is nothing here...just you and the gulf," notes Stefan H., emphasizing the primitive nature of these sites.
Sand conditions vary: Beach driving conditions change seasonally and by location. Mitchell M. reports, "Very easy to access regardless of car type you have, won't get stuck in sand," while another camper recommends checking sand firmness before driving onto beaches.
Tips for camping with families
Pack sun protection: Tomball RV Park, located about 35 miles northwest of Pasadena, offers a more developed alternative for families. "This was our first family camping trip and very beautiful spacious and clean!" shares Roxanne G.
Consider timing: Weekends see higher visitation at beach camping areas. "We went on a weekend late July 2021, NO PROBLEM finding space. Recommend some type of canopy or awning, Texas Sun is HOT!" advises BL E. at Follett's Island.
Mobile services: Food trucks occasionally visit beach camping areas. "Ice Cream & Food Trucks pass throughout the day (if you have a sweet tooth)," notes BL E., though families should still pack essential supplies as these services are unpredictable.
Tips from RVers
Class B accessibility: Surfside Beach Dispersed Camping accommodates smaller RVs with careful driving. "Class B camping. Had beach mostly to ourselves. Primitive camping with no amenities. Just what we were looking for," shares Gary N.
Beach driving routes: Select driving paths carefully on beaches. "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 (check before you drive into the sand)," advises Cultivating Fire L., adding that September offered minimal traffic.
Space considerations: Follett's Island provides ample room between campers. "We had a blast! We were living on the beach in our 39ft skoolie for 5 days over christmas!" reports Jadon B., demonstrating that even larger converted vehicles can access these areas during less crowded periods.
