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RV Camping on the Gulf Coast of Texas

Sam Leash-profile-image
Sam Leash
September 29, 2019

TL;DR: Experience the freedom of RV camping along the southern Gulf Coast of Texas with stunning beaches and no camping fees. Explore Crystal Beach at Bolivar Peninsula for pet-friendly camping, Brazoria Beach for excellent fishing, or unwind at Haak Winery near Galveston. Discover the beauty of North Beach at Padre Island National Seashore with free camping for up to 14 days, or enjoy a round of golf at The Wilderness Golf Club in Lake Jackson. Venture to Mustang Island State Park near Corpus Christi for a relaxed camping experience. With endless coastline to explore and no camping fees to worry about, Texas offers RVers the perfect getaway destination.

RV Camping on the Gulf Coast of Texas

One of the biggest appeals of the RV lifestyle is the ability to pack up your home on wheels and drive it to whatever destination you wish to visit. Your destination of choice could be any landscape or any region of the US. These include the mountains of Colorado, the forests of Washington, the deserts of Arizona, or the beaches of Virginia. One such popular destination is the southern Gulf Coast of Texas. Along the coast of Texas, you will find hundreds of miles of stunning beaches. Here, the warm waters of the Gulf attract thousands of people for vacations each year. In a single day, visitors can swim, kayak, fish, sail, sunbathe, and more, all along some of the most beautiful beaches in America. The best part about all of this is that this area of coastline had a multitude of places where RVers can camp with no camping fees. Coastal camping is pretty much as good as it gets, so let’s head on down to Texas and explore all the places you can take your RV for some fun in the sun.Bolivar Flats is one of the nicest free campsites on the Texas Panhandle.

1. Bolivar Peninsula

Our first stop brings us to a tiny stretch of land called the Bolivar Peninsula. While very beautiful, that doesn’t mean camping here needs to be expensive.Crystal Beach, sometimes called Bolivar Flats, provides access to camping beach that is pet friendly. Be sure to read the signs carefully, because one side of the beach requires a permit. Also be sure to check the weather and tide information and plan accordingly. While staying here, it’s dry camping only. There also aren’t any toilets or showers, but, hey, you’re in an RV, right? In addition to the gorgeous waters, be sure to check out the Bolivar Lighthouse and scope out some wildlife. This area is well-known for birdwatching opportunities. There are also lots of local shops where you’re able to find excellent souvenirs. Crystal Beach also often times has live music events.Bolivar Flats is one of the nicest free campsites on the Texas Panhandle.

2. Brazoria Beach

Heading down the coast brings us to Brazoria Beach which is located near Surfside Beach. About five miles north of Surfside Beach. This family-friendly area is conveniently located near stores and typically has security on-site during the busy season. If you enjoy fishing, then this area is for you. A short drive away brings you to Surfside Beach which is famous for deep-sea fishing, and the coastal reefs make it ideal for fishing close to shore as well. There are several nearby restaurants so you don’t need to stray far from your little slice of heaven to find almost anything you need. Bolivar Flats is one of the nicest free campsites on the Texas Panhandle.

3. Haak Winery

Perhaps the tides are high and you’re looking to camp somewhere a little more inland. Or maybe you just enjoy a nice glass of wine. Either way, break out that Harvest Host membership and take a look at this hidden gem. Haak Winery is located less than an hour south of Houston and about thirty minutes away from Galveston.They have four reservable spots for RVs of any size along with WiFi. They offer wine tastings and tours of the facility, and have a very nice selection of wines. Throughout the summer, you can check their calendar for a list of their upcoming events. Haak Winery is a beautiful Harvest Hosts location near the Gulf of Texas.

4. North Beach

While there may be a park entrance fee (fee waived if you have the _America the Beautiful _National Parks pass) , this National Seashore is worth the visit. Better yet, when you pay to enter the park, you’re allowed to camp for up to fourteen days with no camping fees. Camping at North Beachis ideal because you get to come back to your rig after a long day of camping. Before heading into the park, be sure to stock up on supplies such as ice, firewood, and gas (also get your fishing license ahead of time if you plan on fishing) because this park does not have any stores. There are many activities to do here, such as beach picnicking, beach combing, ranger-led programs, windsurfing, canoeing, and kayaking. Throughout mid-June to August, there are also opportunities to view sea turtle hatchling releases. North Beach is a gorgeous Texas free campsite.

5. The Wilderness Golf Club

Ranked #7 in top U.S. courses by Golf Advisor, this manicured course has 18 championship holes just waiting for you. The Wilderness Golf Club is located in Lake Jackson, Texas to stay the night at with your upgraded Harvest Host membership. Your stay is pet-friendly at any of their four reservable spots for RVs of any size. Named after a lake on an old plantation, the City of Lake Jackson If you’re interested in learning more about the town, then we recommend visiting the Lake Jackson Historical Museum. This museum offers guided tours and appreciates any donations. The Wilderness Golf Course is a great Harvest Hosts location.

6. Mustang Island

Way down the shores, just outside of Corpus Christi, you’ll find Mustang Island State Park. Despite the name, there are no longer wild horses roaming here. What is a popular fishing spot is surprisingly not a busy camping area. Mustang Island camping sites are dispersed and typically don't’ fill up outside of summer. There is only one town on Mustang Island which is Port Aransas, which is where you’ll find all of your shopping and dining needs. In addition to the beach, there’s also parasailing, boating, fishing, and the Mustang Island Paddling Trail. Composed of three different trails, this will take you on an up-close-and-personal tour of the best shallow water areas around Corpus Christi Bay. Bolivar Flats is one of the nicest free campsites on the Texas Panhandle.One of the many benefits of RVing is saving on expenses of a hotel room, or saving money by cooking in your portable kitchen. Another overlooked benefit is camping with no camping fees. It’s so convenient being able to redirect vacation money that would typically be used on campgrounds or hotels, and use that for something more fun. While there are many places to camp across the United States with no camping fees, camping on the beaches in Texas is the definition of relaxation.North Beach is a gorgeous Texas free campsite.Looking for more locations? Get more RV Camping in Texas recommendations here.

About Harvest Hosts
Harvest Hosts is a unique RV camping membership that offers self-contained RVers unlimited overnight stays at over 5,655 small businesses across North America with no camping fees. Boondock at farms, wineries, breweries, attractions, and other one-of-a-kind destinations throughout North America, and you’ll get peace of mind knowing that a safe place to stay is always nearby!
Sam Leash-profile-image
Sam Leash
Sam is a seasoned traveler and RVer of 4+ years. She loves adventures of all kinds and spends as much time on the road as she can. When not exploring in her RV or writing about her travels, you can find her reading a good book, cooking a delicious meal, caring for her plants, or hiking with her dogs.