Summer will soon be drawing to a close, so why not send it off with a bang? These seven Texas campgrounds allow guests to sleep right by the ocean, making for a refreshing overnight adventure. Who’s up for midnight swims and roasting marshmallows on the beach?
1. Padre Island National Seashore (South Padre Island)
SPI is one of the most popular summer destinations in Texas, so enough campsites had to be established to accommodate the constant influx of tourists. More than 64 miles of shoreline is open year-round for primitive beach camping; no reservation required. The nearest amenities are 12 miles away, so come prepared! Click here to learn more.
2. Mustang Island State Park (Port Aransas)
Mustang Island is considerably less crowded than South Padre, but that doesn’t mean it’s any less worthy of a visit. A 1.5-mile stretch of beach boasts 50 undesignated campsites, which sleep up to eight people each. Pitch your tent, get a campfire going, and start roasting some marshmallows to send off summer in the most memorable way possible. Click here for more information.
3. Possum Kingdom Lake (Caddo)
Between tent sites, RV plots, and cabins, Possum Kingdom State Park has over 100 campsites in total. You’ll enjoy stunning lake views no matter what, but the tent sites are closest to the water by far. If all the spots are full, there are five additional primitive campgrounds nearby that don’t charge a nightly rate for much of the year. Click here to learn more.
4. Ray Roberts Lake State Park (Pilot Point)
Not far from the DFW metroplex, Ray Roberts Lake is a welcome respite from the chaos of city life. There are several campsites in the State Park, but the primitive ones at Isle du Bois provide direct waterfront access. Over 300 spots in total pretty much guarantee you a spot! Click here for more information.
5. Sea Rim State Park (Port Arthur)
Sea Rim has 15 campsites with electricity, located right next to the beach and boardwalk. Each one includes picnic tables, an outdoor grill, a tent pad, water hookup, a lantern post and a 50/30 amp hookup. There are also 75 primitive campsites that don't require a reservation and one boat-accessible floating site. Click here to learn more.
6. Lake Whitney State Park (Whitney)
Just outside of Waco, Lake Whitney is an ideal destination for hiking, mountain biking, all sorts of water recreation activities, and - of course - camping. Sites range from $10-$24 per night, all located alongside the water. Each one sleeps up to eight people, perfect for big families, friend groups, scout troops, and everything in-between. Click here for more information.
7. I.B. Magee Beach Park (Port Aransas)
I.B. Magee is a 167-acre section of Mustang Island, featuring both primitive beachfront camping and 75 designated sites. Surf camps are held here all throughout the summer, and fish are plentiful. Get ready for a front-row seat to all the action! Click here to learn more.
How many of these beachfront campgrounds have you stayed at? Did we miss your favorite? Let us know, and check out our previous article for more unforgettable places to camp: 11 Stunning Texas State Parks Where You Can Camp All Year Round.
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