Dispersed camping near Richwood, Texas offers direct oceanfront access along the Gulf Coast. Winter temperatures typically stay between 50-70°F while summer months reach 85-95°F with high humidity. Beach camping sites experience constant sea breezes that provide relief from heat but can create challenges during storms when wind speeds increase dramatically.
What to do
**Ocean fishing: Fish directly from your campsite at Bolivar Flats Dispersed Camping where campers report good catches from shore. "We had a blast fishing here," notes one reviewer, highlighting the easy access to fishing opportunities.
**Beach fires: Collect driftwood for nighttime fires at Matagorda Beach Dispersed Camping. "Plenty of driftwood to gather for huge bonfires that we do every time we go," shares one camper. A beach permit costs $10 at the gas station before crossing the bridge.
**Stargazing: Clear nights offer exceptional star viewing opportunities due to minimal light pollution. "Beautiful night stargazing and relaxing with the ocean waves," reports a camper at Surfside Beach, making this a popular evening activity when weather conditions allow.
What campers like
**Uncrowded weekday camping: Most beach camping areas near Richwood become significantly less crowded Monday through Thursday. At Bolivar Flats, one camper noted, "We stayed Monday-Friday and were the only RVer there Thursday night."
**Mobile vendors: Several beach areas feature food trucks and ice cream vendors that travel along the beach during busy periods. As one Brazoria Beach visitor mentions, "Weekend also brings vendor trucks coming down the beach all the time. We were a bit irritated at 1st but then bought ice-cream."
**Privacy options: The extensive shoreline allows campers to find isolated spots away from others. "Very secluded, usually no one passes by if you down far enough," reports a Matagorda Beach camper, while another at Gulf Side Oasis notes they "parked parallel to the dunes off the packed down sand" and stayed "a good distance from all the houses to avoid any potential issues."
What you should know
**Tide awareness: Monitor tide patterns carefully when selecting your camping spot. One camper at Follett's Island Beach advises to watch carefully during storms: "We kept an eye on it and it didn't come near us" but conditions can change quickly.
**4x4 requirements vary: While most beach areas have hard-packed sand, some require four-wheel drive. Matagorda Beach needs "4x4 to get out and down the beach" according to a visitor, while at Follett's Island "the sand is compacted so you shouldn't get stuck" and "any vehicle can drive on the beach."
**Permit requirements: Some beaches require permits while others don't. At Bolivar Flats, permits cost $10 per year and are "valid from January to December" though enforcement becomes less strict in late fall. Matagorda Beach requires a $10 beach parking permit available at the gas station before crossing the bridge.
Tips for camping with families
**Weather monitoring: Gulf weather can change rapidly with strong winds and storms. "Check the weather! I was there the night of a tornado watch. 70 mile an hour winds and heavy rain," warns a camper at Bolivar Flats.
**Insect preparedness: Biting flies and mosquitoes can be problematic, especially for children and pets. One Gulf Side Oasis Beach Dispersed visitor noted they could only enjoy beach time during certain hours due to insects: "Only gave 4 stars because of the biting flies... They were swarming our dog, we had to keep her in the tent most of the time."
**Sun protection: With minimal natural shade, prepare for constant sun exposure. "Recommend some type of canopy or awning, Texas Sun is HOT!" advises a Follett's Island camper. Portable shade structures are essential for families with children.
Tips from RVers
**Self-containment necessities: No hookups exist at these beach locations. "We were living on the beach in our 39ft skoolie for 5 days over Christmas!" reports one Surfside Beach Dispersed Camping visitor, emphasizing the importance of bringing all supplies.
**Leveling challenges: Beach terrain often slopes toward water. "Beach isn't really flat, it slopes down towards the water, but it's close enough," notes a Bolivar Flats camper. Bring leveling blocks and check your position relative to potential high tide markers.
**Supply runs: Limited stores exist near beach camping areas. "Plan ahead, stores are few and far between," advises one camper, while another at Brazoria Beach suggests: "Not much in the area so pack your pantry in advance."
