The Bolivar Peninsula, stretching 27 miles along the upper Texas Gulf Coast, offers glamping options with direct access to both beach and bay ecosystems. The area maintains a subtropical climate with summer temperatures typically reaching 90°F, dropping to the 50s in winter months. During hurricane season (June-November), campers should monitor weather forecasts carefully as the low-lying peninsula can experience evacuation orders.
What to do
Kayaking in Jarbo Bayou: Explore waterways near Brickhouse RV Resort where guests can enjoy bird watching and fishing. "Pool is located next to Jarbo Bayou for birdwatching, kayaking and fishing," notes reviewer Pat M.
Wildlife viewing: Fort Anahuac Park provides opportunities to spot local alligators along the nature trails. "We love the trails and rugged wildlife of the park... Watch out for the gators and put your food up or it will be gone," advises Matt S.
Beach activities: Crystal Beach's yurt glamping sites offer immediate beach access for shell collecting and water activities. The nearby Sea Rim State Park combines beach and marsh environments. "There is hiking as well. Spend an afternoon or a week here," suggests Lynn G.
Night sky viewing: Watch the Houston city lights across the bay from Fort Anahuac Park. "It was super cool to watch as the lights of Houston illuminated the sky across the bay," shares Tucker B.
What campers like
Concrete pads with shade structures: Galveston Island State Park offers recently updated beachside sites. "Beach side is very nice since being remodeled. Great back in sites. Nice electrical and water service towers at sites," notes James P.
Clean bathroom facilities: Campground bathrooms at many locations are well-maintained. "Gorgeous spacious bathrooms with literally granite countertops," reports Ashley C. about Galveston Island State Park's facilities.
Fishing opportunities: Fort Anahuac Park provides both pier and bank fishing. "This park has a beautiful open expansive green space. Ball fields, play ground, nature trails, boat ramp, fishing pier, fish cleaning station and even fishing from the bank," describes N I.
Winter stays: Lower crowds and mild temperatures make winter glamping near Port Bolivar appealing. "We camped here over New Years," mentions Julie B. about their Galveston Island State Park stay, noting that "the view on the far side of the circle as you enter is spectacular, looking over the water on the bay side."
What you should know
Mosquito preparation: Insects can be intense, especially at dusk. "An army of vampire mosquitos descend on you and your pets. We were enjoying being outside and we had to get into our trailer," warns Evelyn O. about Sea Rim State Park.
Permit requirements: Some parks require camping permits obtained in advance. "Obtain a camping permit from the Commissioner Office. Park only on gravel areas, not on the grass, and no open fires. Call 409-267-2409 for information," advises N I.
Gate closure times: Camp Mohawk County Park and other parks enforce strict closing hours. One camper noted about Sea Rim, "This is the only park - national, state, regional or otherwise - that I've encountered that literally locks their gate at night... There is no way in, no way out until the next morning."
Water quality: Gulf beaches in this region don't have the crystal-clear water found elsewhere. "Galveston beaches may not be the best in the world, it is hard to have a bad day on the beach," mentions Jim P.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Select campgrounds with dedicated play areas. "This park has pavilions, playgrounds, a pool, baseball and basketball courts. You can boat around the pond," notes Jeannette V. about Camp Mohawk County Park.
Shell collecting expeditions: Beaches offer abundant shell-hunting opportunities. "The beach was ok, not the nicest I've ever seen but the kids loved it. Lots of shells and treasures to be found," shares Vanessa L.
Short weekend escapes: The area's proximity to Houston makes it ideal for quick family getaways. "With such close proximity to Houston, it is a great weekend getaway!" explains Jim P. about Galveston Island State Park.
Nature programs: Many parks offer ranger-led activities for children. "Great kayaking trail map and recommendations from the rangers on where to go," mentions a Sea Rim visitor.
Tips from RVers
Electrical issues awareness: Check power connections carefully at older RV parks. One visitor to Palms RV Park cautions, "Incorrect wiring with the 50 amp service destroyed our fridges and microwave."
Limited pull-through sites: Most glamping locations near Port Bolivar are back-in only. "Great back in sites. Nice electrical and water service towers at sites. Great walking paths," reports a Galveston Island State Park camper.
Park spacing considerations: Sites at some locations can be tight. At Brickhouse RV Resort, one RVer notes they are "Very tightly packed together," adding "We had to wake a guy up to move his truck to get into our spot and he was cranky about it."
Storm preparation: The low elevation makes flooding possible during storms. "Not a great beach to camp on in stormy weather. No rock/sea wall to slow the surge or wave action," warns Kelly E. about Sea Rim State Park.
