Harlingen, Texas is an excellent location for camping, with its proximity to water, its vibrant natural terrain and numerous recreational activities. Camping in Harlingen offers bird-watching, water activities and hiking, and the campgrounds provide an atmosphere that is family friendly.
History
Harlingen was initially known as Six Shooter Junction, nicknamed for its earliest residents--border patrol officers and Texas Rangers who had target practice with Lon Hill, the town founder. Harlingen became a farming and ranch community that quickly grew with a railroad line and Harlingen Air Force Base. The Air Force Base closed in 1962 and eventually came to be used as Rio Grande Valley International Airport. The city continues to grow, with citrus crops in abundance and a large tourist trade.
Geography
The two closest major Texas towns to Harlingen are Corpus Christi and Brownsville. It also is near the Mexican border. Harlingen lies on the Gulf Coast and is part of the Rio Grande Valley It spans 34 square miles and is in Cameron County. Nearby attractions include the Gladys-Porter Zoo, the Valley Nature Center and the Resaca de la Palma State Park.
Camping
Both RV camping and tent camping are available in Harlingen. Some campgrounds are near waterways and natural terrain, while others are near major businesses, such as the airport and hospital. If you want a quiet getaway, ask about location when you gather campground information. While there are campgrounds in the city, others nearby may suit your needs if availability is a problem.
Features
Campsite amenities may include RV hookups, electricity, swimming pools, hot tubs, laundry facilities and WiFi. Some campsites have activities such as square dancing and wood carving, as well as fishing, boating and bird-watching available at the site. Check with the campsite operators to see exactly which activities, if any, are available.
Considerations
Most campsites in Texas require reservations: Sites can fill up quickly. Call ahead.
If you plan on fishing or hunting, ask your campground operator what permits are required. While the state has hunting and fishing laws, local campsite operators may have their own hunting or fishing rules that you must abide by. Local permits may be required in addition to those for the state.
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