Camping near Texas City, Texas offers direct access to both the Galveston Bay shoreline and the Gulf of Mexico waters. While most sites feature flat terrain with limited natural shade, the region experiences high humidity year-round with temperatures averaging 90°F in summer and 65°F in winter. Off-season camping between October and February provides more comfortable conditions and significantly fewer mosquitoes than peak summer months.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Bolivar Flats Dispersed Camping, visitors can enjoy shoreline fishing without additional permits. "Great time fishing here," reports Patricia, while another camper notes, "We love this beach. It's our third time staying here, and each time it's been quiet, peaceful, and hardly any other campers."
Beach activities: Crystal Beach on Bolivar Peninsula offers direct vehicle access for beach camping. "You can park right up to the water. Wind was blowing around 30mph from the south so the waves were amazing to listen and watch. Kid had a blast too!" shares Pam H. from Bolivar Flats.
Kayaking: The protected waters of Jarbo Bayou at Brickhouse RV Resort provide excellent conditions for paddling. "Pool is located next to Jarbo Bayou for birdwatching, kayaking and fishing," explains Pat M., making it ideal for water activities with less wave action than Gulf beaches.
Mini-golf and family recreation: Some resorts offer on-site entertainment options. "We love this park. We go every summer... Putt putt and movie night," notes Jay W. about Jamaica Beach RV Resort, providing activities when beach conditions aren't ideal.
What campers like
Resort-style amenities: The Jamaica Beach RV Resort features multiple swimming options. "2 hot tubs, 1 indoor and 1 outdoor, 2 pools, 1 lazy river (so relaxing), 1 miniature golf course, 1 duck pond, 1 outdoor movie screen," lists Elisha L., with another reviewer adding, "The lazy river makes you... lazy."
Clean, updated facilities: Many campers appreciate the well-maintained bathrooms. At Galveston Island State Park Campground, "Gorgeous spacious bathrooms with literally granite countertops. Lovely," reports Ashley C., while another notes, "Those bathrooms and showers are really nice."
Concrete pads: Level, concrete sites are standard at most developed campgrounds in the area. "We camped here over New Years... The sites are fairly close to each other, but for some reason, every third site was blocked off, which gave us more space," notes Julie B. about Galveston Island State Park.
Community atmosphere: Winter visitors often find social opportunities. At Stella Mare RV Resort, "Lots of longer term retired guests over winter months, but they like to party!" reports Michelle G., while April Y. adds, "They have events for all ages multiple times a week including kid and adult only crafts, candy bar bingo, wine night."
What you should know
Permit requirements: Beach camping on Bolivar Peninsula requires permits during certain seasons. "The permits you buy are valid from January to December and we had heard that they don't really enforce the permit rule this late in the year," notes Laura M. about winter camping at Bolivar Flats.
Environmental concerns: Beach areas suffer from littering issues. "Very quiet so far but we're here through the week! Lots of people are leaving trash behind! Please don't be that person and ruin it for everyone!" urges Adeline E. at Bolivar Flats.
Weather impacts: Coastal storms can affect facilities. "The bay side has some sites in an open circular configuration. It appears the main site with available bathrooms is still closed due to Covid-19 regulations," noted Neal L. during renovations at Galveston Island State Park.
Reservation timing: Availability varies dramatically by season. "Busy place, must plan in advance for reservations," advises carl M. about Dellanera RV Park, particularly important during spring break and summer weekends.
Tips for camping with families
Splash pads for children: Water features are essential for summer heat. "The kids loved the park and splash pad," reports Corina L. about Stella Mare RV Resort, where "everything was easy to access, everything was clean, and the pool and splash pad were great for the kids."
Beach proximity: Look for sites with easy beach access. "We stayed on the beach side and easy access to the beach from pretty much any site," shares Jim P. about Galveston Island State Park, adding that "with such close proximity to Houston, it is a great weekend getaway!"
Insect protection: Plan for mosquitoes, especially at dusk. "During the day we took our inflatable boat out on the bay, went fishing and went to the Oceanside beach... The only downside? The mosquitoes!! Right at dusk they attacked with a vengeance. Be prepared for that!" warns Ashley C.
Biting flies: These can affect pets particularly. "Only gave 4 stars because of the biting flies... They were swarming out dog, we had to keep her in the tent most of the time," notes Pam H. about beach camping conditions.
Tips from RVers
Dog-friendly features: Parks with designated dog areas are preferred in summer. At Jackie's Place RV Resort, "Fenced Dog Park and Pool a must for Gulf Coast Heat," explains Deborah S., while Stella Mare offers "dog doody stations and a small dog area for a little off leash time."
Winter stays: Monthly rates are significantly lower during cooler months. "Stayed there for 3 months. Campground is divided into 3 sections divided by a fence. Adult only section. Park is well maintained and staff is friendly," reports Kimberly N. about Lake Side RV Resort.
Beach access options: Some parks require crossing busy roads. "The gulf side of the beach is a short drive away. You can walk it but you have to cross a busy two lane highway which I wouldn't recommend," cautions Jeff H. about Jamaica Beach RV Resort.
Salt exposure: Coastal proximity affects vehicles and equipment. "We had a constant 15mph wind, so awnings were flapping, and your car and camper get covered in a salty residue," warns Craig F. about waterfront camping.
