The Trinity River empties into Trinity Bay near Wallisville, Texas, creating a unique ecosystem where freshwater meets saltwater. This coastal area sits at an elevation of just 15-20 feet above sea level, making it susceptible to humidity and seasonal flooding. Camping options in the region include free county parks with 3-day limits, full-service RV resorts, and waterfront sites where alligators are common residents.
What to do
Wildlife watching: Observe alligators and birds at Fort Anahuac Park where you'll find numerous reptiles. "We love the trails and rugged wildlife of the park... Watch out for the gators and put your food up or it will be gone," notes Matt S. The park offers nature trails with interpretive signs about local wildlife.
Fishing: Access multiple waterways near Wallisville with several public piers and boat launches. Trinity Bay is popular for catching speckled trout and redfish. At Double Bayou Park, campers appreciate the boat launch facilities. "This parks, like the others, have a beautiful expansive green space... There is also a playground and picnic area," according to N I.
Boating: Launch from dedicated ramps at several parks in Chambers County. Double Bayou Park features "a great kayak and canoe launch which is great. I wish all boat launches are provided with the same," mentions N I. The interconnected waterways allow for exploration of bayous, the Trinity River, and Trinity Bay.
What campers like
Free camping: Save on accommodations at Whites County Park Campground where permits are easily obtained. "I got the camping permit just by calling the phone number at the entrance, they provide me an email to sent my driver license and car type. That's it, they sent me back the permit. Everything is free," explains Diana.
Concrete pads: Park on level surfaces at several RV parks in the area. At Trinity Bay RV Park & Lodging, campers find well-maintained sites. One visitor notes, "Great park. Stayed for a month over winter. Friendly, responsive owners. Well maintained. Sunrise/sunsets are picture worthy. Level, concrete pads."
Waterfront views: Enjoy bay vistas from multiple parks. The sunset views are particularly notable from waterfront sites. "It was super cool to watch as the lights of Houston illuminated the sky across the bay," reports Tucker B. about Fort Anahuac Park. Many waterfront sites offer fishing access directly from camp.
What you should know
Mosquito preparation: Bring repellent as insects can be intense near the bayous. "Don't forget the 'OFF' tons of mosquitoes," warns Patrick B. about Double Bayou Park. Other campers note blood-hungry mosquitoes throughout the region, particularly after rains.
Highway noise: Consider site location at parks near Interstate 10. At Rio RV Park at Turtle Bayou, the proximity to I-10 affects some sites. "Property is literally right next to interstate 10 and VERY NOISY!!! Charged $35 for full hookups on a new, level concrete pad," notes Jeff.
Camping permit requirements: Obtain necessary paperwork for county parks even though they're free. Different parks have different processes - some require calling ahead, others need email verification. "You can obtain one by going on the website and calling and talk to Brandy she will email you one. This is a County park," explains Curtis D.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Plan for recreation at several county parks that offer play equipment. Double Bayou Park includes a playground area alongside its picnic facilities and boat launch. "This park has a beautiful open expansive green space. Ball fields, play ground, nature trails, boat ramp, fishing pier," notes a visitor to Fort Anahuac Park.
Historical education: Explore local history at Houston East RV Resort, which provides access to regional historical sites. The nearby Fort Anahuac offers educational opportunities about Texas independence. "We spent time at the pool and hot tub. The property is clean and well maintained," adds Greg S.
Swimming options: Cool off safely away from bayou waters. Houston East RV Resort provides a pool that campers find refreshing during hot weather. Note that not all parks welcome children - one visitor reported, "This is the most ridiculous thing I've ever heard from an RV park...no school-age children allowed on the property!"
Tips from RVers
Extended stay options: Plan for longer visits at Mont Belvieu RV Resort where monthly rates are available. "Quick to reply to email inquiry regarding available space. Friendly staff that were very helpful. Well organized park," reports Christian. The resort receives consistently high ratings for cleanliness.
Park only on designated surfaces: Follow strict rules at county parks about where to place your RV. "Park only on gravel areas, not on the grass, and no open fires," advises a visitor about Fort Anahuac Park. This rule helps preserve the grounds during wet weather when soil can be easily damaged.
Cell service considerations: Check connectivity before arrival as coverage varies. At Rio RV Park at Turtle Bayou, one camper noted "2 bars ATT LTE," which may affect remote work capabilities. Most commercial RV parks offer WiFi, while county parks typically don't provide internet access.
