Though not as well-known for its warm sandy beaches as it is for its notable historic sites and vibrant urban centers, Texas has a coastline that angles more than 300 miles along the Gulf of Mexico and draws thousands to its shores every year. Many of these gulf coast beaches offer a variety of popular and primitive camping destinations, as well as activities and attractions ranging from watching migratory turtles to wind sailing off the coast.
Popular Destination
One of the most popular coastal destinations in Texas, Padre Island National Seashore, has 70 miles of white beaches and five camping areas for public use including the semi-primitive Malaquite Beach and Bird Island Basin. Galveston Island State Park located southeast of Houston, encompasses more than 2,000 acres with full camping amenities, as well as nature trails and an interpretive center. Additional Texas' beach camping can be found at Goose Island State Park and Sea Rim State Park.
Primitive Sites
Some of the best primitive camping sites along the Texas coastline include Yarborough Pass and the North and South Beaches of the Padre Island National Seashore. At Sea Rim State Park, head to the D. Roy Harrington Beach for two miles of open beach camping. The park also has bird and nature trails, as well as a visitor's center. Primitive campsites, with limited nearby amenities, can also be enjoyed on the Sunday Beach area of Matagorda Island, accessibly only by boat.
Activities
You can spend the day swimming, sunbathing, surfing and picnicking along the coastline. Many beaches also have hiking trails and fishing areas, as well as excellent birding opportunities. Some parks, such as Mustang Island State Park, offer kayaking and canoeing, as well as mountain biking on selected trails. Bird Island Basin, part of Padre Island National Seashore, ranks as one of the best windsurfing areas in the country and also offers kayaking and boating.
Attractions
Many of Texas' beach campsites also feature natural attractions such as unique ecosystems and diverse animal populations. Take time, for example, to explore Mustang Island State Park, a coastal barrier island with sand dunes that stretch to 35 feet and host hardy native vegetation such as sea oats and soilbind morning glory. Ramble the dunes and you may catch a glimpse of resident grasshopper mice, armadillos and opossums, as well as shorebirds and waterfowl.
Considerations
Most campgrounds do not accept reservations, but instead have campsites available on a first-come, first-served basis. While amenities vary by park, some offer full-service campsites, like Mustang Island State Park and Goose Island State Park, with water, electrical connections, restrooms, showers and shade shelters. A number of campgrounds are also open to RVs. Beach campsites will usually close only for hurricane watches and warnings. Call ahead for entrance fees and fire bans.
References
- "Texas Monthly: magazine; "Texas Traveler: Your Guide to Adventure"; Barbara Wray; 2009
- Texas Parks and Wildlife Department: Home Page
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