The Rio Grande Valley around San Juan offers a variety of pet-friendly camping options between the desert landscape and the nearby Gulf of Mexico. Winter temperatures typically range from 60-75°F, making it popular with seasonal visitors from northern states. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 95°F, creating challenging conditions for outdoor activities with pets.
What to do
Bird watching opportunities: The region's position along major migration routes makes it ideal for bird enthusiasts. Bentsen Palm Village RV Park provides direct access to the World Birding Center at Bentsen State Park. "There are many outdoor activities around the park and are next door to the Rio Grande State Park," notes a reviewer.
Golf excursions: Several courses within short driving distance accommodate various skill levels. One camper at Chimney Park RV Resort reported, "Played golf at nearby courses. Most of the people there are Winter Texans are 55+. Very friendly."
Beach access: South Padre Island beaches can be reached within an hour's drive. As one visitor to Magic Valley Resort noted, the campground is "minutes from the beaches of South Padre Island," making it convenient for day trips to the Gulf.
What campers like
Winter Texan community: Many parks cater specifically to seasonal visitors from northern states. A visitor to Leisure World RV Resort observed it's "mostly used by winter Texans, visiting from Wisconsin and Michigan. Very clean and well maintained."
Social activities: Organized events create community among campers. One visitor to Countryside Mobile Home & RV Park appreciated the "live entertainment and country jam weekly, pot lucks and special events." Another noted, "lots of activities available which include shuffle board, horse shoes, billiards, card games five nights a week."
Economical rates: Several campgrounds offer discounted stays for longer visits or club members. "Camping fees are $30 per night with full hook ups and $15 per night with Passport America. Monthly and long term rates available," reports one camper about D&L RV Park.
What you should know
Seasonal population shifts: Most campgrounds have different vibes depending on time of year. At Bluebonnet RV Resort, one winter visitor mentioned, "This winter was was our first ever to be a Winter Texan. Bluebonnet was a wonderful place to be."
Border security presence: Some campgrounds have increased security due to their proximity to the Mexican border. One visitor to Chimney Park RV Resort pointed out the "Border patrol post on the property. Very safe."
Connectivity limitations: Cell coverage can be unreliable in some locations. A camper at Chimney Park RV Resort mentioned "No cable and cell service spotty" during their stay.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Some resorts cater more to older adults than families with children. While most dog friendly campgrounds near San Juan welcome all ages, one reviewer at Tip O' Texas RV Resort noted it's an "adult resort, lots of activities and super friendly residents!"
Citrus grove surroundings: The agricultural landscape offers unique educational opportunities. A family visitor to Tip O' Texas RV Resort observed the "park is surrounded by beautiful citrus groves. You literally feel like you are in a desert oasis."
Beat the heat: Morning activities are recommended during summer months. "Located very close to the Rio Grande Valley. There are so many great attractions and places to do outdoor activities," reported one family, but summer temperatures often exceed 95°F by midday.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: The hub-and-spoke design at some parks offers advantages for larger rigs. One RVer at Bentsen Palm Village RV Park appreciated that the "unique hub-and-spoke circle design allows ample space to maneuver even the biggest RVs."
Long-term amenities: Extended-stay visitors should check for amenities that enhance comfort. "This RV park/resort is abundant in beautiful plantings and trees! It feels like a true tropical resort. There are many amenities including a nice swimming pool," noted one visitor about the pet-friendly campgrounds near San Juan.
Activity options for winter stays: Winter visitors often plan multi-month stays. At D&L RV Park, activities include "shuffleboard, horse shoes, cards five nights a week, pool table and country jam on Mondays," plus a "large hall for meetings, get together etc."
