Though you may be intent on going dry camping on the Padre Islands, there is a good chance you will get wet. The campgrounds are primitive and the surroundings are the Gulf of Mexico. Visitors will enjoy exploring the island while viewing wildlife, swimming and playing in the sand. The park normally stays warm year-round so it is possible to visit at any time.
Camping Overview
Dry, or primitive, camping is available in Padre Islands National Seashore. Most campgrounds are free, though Bird Island Basin and Malaquite campgrounds have camping fees of $5 or $8 respectively. Campgrounds are available on a first-come, first-served basis. You must secure a camping permit, which are available at the ranger stations. Guests enjoy camping near the water, in what is usually a quiet area. All camping fees are as of 2010.
Swimming and Windsurfing
Water lovers can enjoy swimming or windsurfing at Padre Islands National Seashore. No lifeguards are on duty in the park, so visitors should make sure to be safe at all times. Riptides and sudden drops of the seafloor can cause difficult swimming conditions. Visitors can also swim in Bird Island Basin or in the Gulf of Mexico. Worldwinds windsurfing, near the park, offers windsurf rentals and lessons. You can rent a board for the day for $45 as of 2010. Wetsuits, harnesses and booties are all available for rent as well.
Biking
Off-roading on a bike is possible throughout the park. Padre Islands National Seashore does not offer bike rentals, but visitors can bring your own, or there are rental shops outside of the park. Bringing the bike into the park costs $5, or $20 for the year. No bike trails exist in the park, so feel free to ride along the beach and explore the island. If you plan on biking into the park, be aware that there are no trails or paths, so you will need to be careful of cars passing by.
Beach Combing
Campers can take a hike or walk down the beaches of Padre Island and explore for little treasures like rocks and shells. If there is an animal living in one of the shells, it is recommended to put it back on the sand. The best time to go beach combing is just after a storm because all sorts of different items get washed to the shoreline. If you find remnants of an animal or cultural artifacts, alert a park ranger.
Preparations
The temperature at Padre Island National Seashore can reach the mid-90s during the summer. It is a good idea to bring water and sunblock. There is plenty of wildlife to see in the park, but watch out for jellyfish, rattlesnakes and stingrays, all of which can be poisonous. If you have an emergency, dial 911 or find a park ranger during normal working hours. Pets are allowed in the park as long as they are kept on a leash.
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