Rockport sits along the Texas Gulf Coast, with several pet-friendly camping options within 15 miles of the shore. The area has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers reaching 90°F and mild winters averaging 60°F. Campers can expect strong coastal breezes year-round, with southeastern winds typically between 10-15 mph.
What to do
Fishing at Goose Island State Park: Located near Rockport, this park offers excellent fishing opportunities along Aransas Bay. The park features "good day use spots and excellent boat ramp with a fish cleaning table," according to Jeff. Another visitor noted they "wish I would have come better prepared to fish" and mentioned seeing a Whooping Crane while staying on the bay side.
Visit The Big Tree: A short drive from Goose Island State Park Campground, you can see what's purported to be the oldest tree in Texas. Harry H. mentions it's "a short drive/bike ride away" and estimates the tree to be "1000-2000 years old!" The tree is a notable landmark within the park's boundaries.
Beach camping at Port Aransas: For $12 per year, you can purchase a permit for Port Aransas Permit Beach and camp right on the sand. "You have to move every 3 days," notes Mark F., who found it "quiet other than spring break." Another camper adds that the "luxury of not packing our stuff up to drive to the beach every day is wonderful."
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the secluded feel of spots at Goose Island. Katie B. says, "We really enjoyed staying in the wooded area of the park. Most spaces are very private because of the thick plant life." David N. agrees that "the wooded area is really nice with private sites, camp for grills, tables and trees for shade."
Quality RV facilities: Rockport RV Resort by Rjourney receives praise for its concrete pads. A visitor notes they are "level and even, creating comfortable spaces for campers." Some campers at Port A RV Resort appreciate its proximity to nature, with Sheila B. mentioning it's "adjacent to the nature preserve, which gives it a feeling of seclusion."
Wildlife viewing: The coastal location provides excellent opportunities to observe native species. Traci K. from Bay View RV Resort "absolutely love[s] the wildlife and birding" and even hosts "the Hummingbird Celebration site now known as Hummer Hill" during the second week of September for the hummingbird migration south.
What you should know
Sand management: Beach camping brings sand challenges. At Port Aransas Permit Beach, one camper advises to "be ready to deal with fine sand in your rv and everything." The beach areas have "hard packed sand" which makes driving on them easier, but preventing sand from getting everywhere requires preparation.
Low tree branches: For RVs staying in wooded areas, watch for overhanging limbs. At Goose Island State Park Campground, Eric R. warns to "watch out for low tree branches if you're staying in the wooded areas" and recommends that big rigs "stay on the outer loop if you're a big rig."
Noise considerations: Several campgrounds have specific noise issues to be aware of. At Goose Island, campers mention "the air boats run all day on the weekends and are loud." Another visitor noted the boats are "loud early and late," which might affect those seeking a quieter experience.
Tips for camping with families
Beach permit information: For family beach camping at Port Aransas, Tiffany S. explains the simple process: "Just get a $12 parking permit at the stripes gas station and you're good to stay over night!" This makes for an affordable family option with direct beach access.
Swimming options: Multiple campgrounds offer pools for kids when beach conditions aren't ideal. At Port A RV Resort, visitors enjoy "2 wonderful swimming pools that are heated," which are "perfect for the winter Texans, or people like us that just love to go camping year round."
Pet-friendly activities: For families camping with pets near Rockport, Texas, Ancient Oaks RV Park provides "large shaded sites under Live Oak trees" that are just "over 1 mile to the beach." Jeff F. notes the park has a "great location with Live Oak trees" providing shade for pets during hot days.
Tips from RVers
Utilities placement: At some parks, hookup locations can be challenging. At Sandollar Resort, one RVer noted "the hookups are strangely placed. Our water and sewer was on the correct side but electric and cable on the other side. Glad we had a super long coax cable and power cable."
Campground recovery: Hurricane damage remains a consideration. Peg F. observed at Goose Island, "there is still a lot of damage from the hurricane" while another visitor mentioned improvements, noting the park has been "remodeled after 2019 hurricane" and is "a steal @ $22/night with TX Park Pass!"
Seasonal considerations: For pet-friendly camping near Rockport, timing matters. Enchanted Oaks RV Park is described as "a quiet and not overly crowded RV park" but visitors should note that in July "there were plenty of mosquitoes. So, bring some bug spray."
