Port Aransas offers miles of beach designated for camping and day use. You must have a beach camping permit to stay overnight. Weekends get a little crowded during the day, but it quiets down in the afternoon.
Watch out for coyotes! They are everywhere and can be aggressive. We had at least 5 in the area, but they never came closer than about 50ft away.
Garner has pretty much anything you could need onsite. There’s a general store, restrooms, and plenty of trails for hiking, biking, or just exploring. It gets busy during holidays so expect neighbors and families with kids.
We got lucky and were able to stay here without a reservation on a holiday weekend. The campground host was very hospitable and friendly, and the area was clean and quiet. Leadville is about 20 min away and has any supplies you could need.
Camped here this weekend and it was enjoyable! Plenty of amenities, including restrooms with showers, a general store, and firewood vending machines (which were all empty, but still cool!)
Tent camping lot was near the restrooms but booked too late to be on the water. Staff was friendly and helpful! Definitely planning to return.