Camping options near Wharton, Texas range from rustic tent sites to developed RV parks along the Brazos and Colorado Rivers. The region sits in the coastal plains at elevations between 90-120 feet, with humid subtropical climate patterns bringing hot summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and mild winters. Spring and fall camping seasons typically offer the most comfortable conditions between 65-85°F, though mosquitoes remain active year-round due to the area's numerous waterways.
What to do
Stargazing at state parks: Stephen F. Austin State Park offers excellent night sky viewing with minimal light pollution. A camper noted, "The peaceful atmosphere made it easy to relax and unwind. I particularly enjoyed the serene surroundings."
Fishing opportunities: At KOA Port Lavaca Matagorda Bay, visitors can fish directly from the shoreline. "If you're into fishing, this spot is a dream! The waters are teeming with fish, and I spent several enjoyable hours casting lines and reeling in my catches," one reviewer shared.
Wildlife observation: Brazos Bend State Park Campground offers extensive wildlife viewing beyond alligators. "I've been going to Brazos Bend since I was a kid. It's always fun to hike or bike around the trails and see all types of birds, alligators, and other wildlife," a regular visitor mentioned.
Water recreation: For those seeking glamping close to Wharton, Texas with water activities, Splashway Campground provides numerous options. A camper reported, "There is also a boating pond, fishing and live music on a Saturday night. The toilet block was the cleanest I have ever seen on a campsite."
What campers like
Privacy and spacing: Stephen F. Austin State Park Campground receives praise for its site layout. "The sites were very clean and we watched a few times as people left that the rangers would come out and clean them immediately," a camper observed.
Family-friendly amenities: Brackenridge Park & Campground offers numerous recreational options. A reviewer highlighted, "Lots of activities: frisbee golf (not golf), sand volleyball, miniature golf, softball, paintball, playground, hiking. Well maintained sites."
Security features: Several upscale glamping options near Wharton provide enhanced security. At Brackenridge Park, a visitor noted, "24/7 security. Gated access to camp areas. 4 clean bathroom/bathhouse."
Waterfront access: Colorado River RV Campground offers direct river access. A camper shared, "The area was quiet, bath house was brand new and very nice! Excellent cell connection and nice shady area."
What you should know
Seasonal mosquito activity: Insect repellent is essential year-round. At Thousand Trails Colorado River, one camper mentioned, "The area is beautiful, lot of animals and plants. It is advertised with a lot of facilities but the most, like the playground and mini-golf need immediate attention."
Site spacing considerations: At Serendipity Bay RV Resort, a guest observed, "Sites are very close together with little room to set up outside between RVs. Very little room to park vehicle once RV is in place and limited space to back in."
Road conditions: Some access roads require caution. A KOA Port Lavaca visitor warned, "The road leading to the KOA was a bit rough in places, which can be a concern if you're towing a trailer or driving a low-clearance vehicle."
Reservation timing: Most glamping accommodations near Wharton require advance booking, especially during holiday weekends. At Brazos Bend, sites fill quickly during moderate temperature days when wildlife is most active.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park™ Camp-Resort Waller offers extensive children's activities. "We have been to this park twice now, once at a tent site and once at a Yogi on the Lake cabin. Both during Halloween time a year apart. What a FUN place to be! Our kids loved that we got to go Trick or treating at a campground," shared one family.
Best time for wildlife viewing: For optimal wildlife spotting at Brazos Bend, time your visit carefully. "Staying here as a pass through for a few nights. VERY clean campground. Have also seen lots of alligators, as advertised, which has been pretty cool! Only downfall is the mosquitos," a camper advised.
Budget considerations: At Splashway Campground, plan for additional activity costs. A visitor noted, "The golf carts also are really expensive. Just for a 4 seater it was $114 a day. They allow you to bring your own golf carts or side by sides but no four wheelers."
Weather preparation: Pack for temperature fluctuations and potential storms. At Stephen F. Austin, a visitor observed, "Woke up to a beautiful fog in morning. Would return and explore. Saw numerous trails that looked easy, and tree/shade covered."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Houston West RV Park offers convenient overnight stops. A reviewer shared, "Every other campground in the Houston area seems to be $55+, but with AAA discount I only paid $45 here! They were very accommodating when I called and gave us an easy spot up front because we were arriving after 8pm."
Full hookup availability: Several parks offer complete services. At Stephen F. Austin, an RVer noted, "Full hookups with 30 amps. Semi circle drive thru that fit my 44 ft motorhome and towed Jeep. Deer all over and saw a 6 point buck."
Cellular connectivity: Cell service varies throughout the region. A Colorado River camper reported, "Excellent cell connection and nice shady area," while others noted spotty coverage at Brazos Bend depending on provider.
Leveling requirements: Many sites require some adjustment. At Colorado River, one RVer commented, "The site required leveling side-to-side. Quiet campsite. No highway noise. Train whistle in distant."
