The Texas Gulf Coast offers primitive tent camping sites that remain accessible year-round. Sand conditions at Surfside Beach allow most vehicles to navigate the beach without four-wheel drive, though conditions vary after storms or extreme tides. This coastal camping zone sits approximately 30 miles south of Texas City proper, providing overnight options where campers can position their tents within view of the Gulf of Mexico.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Bryan Beach provides direct access to productive fishing spots along the surf zone. "I pop down here several times a year. It's super close to town and gives you a bit of reprieve from the city," reports one Bryan Beach visitor.
Beach exploration: The 13-mile stretch at Follett's Island Beach allows campers to drive along the shore to find secluded spots. "We moved up here from Access Road #1 two days ago to get away from people and noise congestion and was successful," notes Lisa S., who found quieter areas by relocating to less-populated access points.
Night sky viewing: Minimal light pollution makes stargazing exceptional from beach sites. "Beautiful night stargazing and relaxing with the ocean waves. The days bright sun and cool water gave us great joy," reports Alana at Surfside Beach Dispersed Camping.
What campers like
Beach accessibility: The compacted sand makes vehicle access straightforward for most campers. "Very nice strip of beach. Very easy to access regardless of car type you have, won't get stuck in sand," reports Mitchell M. about his November visit to Follett's Island Beach.
Affordability: Cost-conscious campers appreciate the free camping options. "Hard to beat free camping on the beach," writes John H. about his experience at Follett's Island, where overnight stays require no permits or entrance fees.
Spacing between sites: Unlike developed campgrounds, beach camping allows for significant distance between neighbors. "We camped out on the beach for three days at a few different locations and had no problems other than soft sand at one of the access roads," mentions a Cultivating Fire L., who appreciated the flexibility to select their tent location.
What you should know
Limited amenities: Tent camping near Texas City requires self-sufficiency. "No amenities, water, showers or hookups of any kind. Tmobile Cell service wasn't the best," reports BL E., though they still rated Follett's Island Beach highly despite these limitations.
Insect concerns: Coastal camping brings significant mosquito activity, particularly at sunset. "The biggest problem however, was the mosquitoes! At dusk we had to retreat to our tents immediately or be eaten alive. So beware!" warns Ashley C. about her Bryan Beach experience.
Weather variables: Fall through spring offers more moderate temperatures. "Being November, the temperature was mild and there weren't that many bugs nor people," notes Mitchell M. about off-season advantages at Follett's Island.
Tips for camping with families
Shade solutions: The exposed beaches provide no natural shade. "Recommend some type of canopy or awning, Texas Sun is HOT! Plan ahead, stores are few and far between," advises BL E. from their July camping experience.
Seasonal timing: Weekdays during school seasons offer more privacy and fewer crowds. "This is theeeeee spot to be! You can drive right on the beach! Sunsets are amazing but watch out for the bugs at night!" says Lexi W. about Surfside Beach.
Food preparation: With limited nearby services, meal planning requires forethought. "Not much in the area so pack your pantry in advance," recommends Gary N. based on his weekend at Follett's Island.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RVers should carefully assess sand conditions before driving onto beaches. "Overall, great spot! Just pick your driving lanes and parking spots carefully without 4x4," suggests Cultivating Fire L., who stayed three days at Follett's Island.
Tide awareness: Position vehicles and tents well above the high tide line. "We only had water touch our tires one night," reports an RVer who properly positioned their vehicle during a September stay with higher than normal tides.
Generator usage: While generators are permitted, their noise carries across open beaches. "Generator usage is allowed, but you barely could hear any due to all the space between campers & the WAVES SOUNDING SO AMAZING!" notes BL E. about noise considerations during their Follett's Island visit.
