Not only is Corpus Christi a prime location for fishing, surfing, and other water sports, but it’s also a great place for you and your family to pitch a tent and enjoy the Coastal Bend’s natural beauty. Whether you’re looking for the perfect view from the shore or want to tuck away beneath a shady tree, there is a spot for you to set up camp. Check out these four locations for tent camping in Corpus Christi:

Padre Balli County Park

Located on Padre Island, Padre Balli County Park is open year-round for camping and other outdoor activities you and your family will enjoy! The park features a large tent area with both water and electric hookups. There are also three ADA-accessible campsites, public restrooms, and pay-per-use showers.

Padre Island National Seashore

Campers interested in pitching a tent at Padre Island National Seashore need to acquire a beach permit from one of the kiosks located at the entrance of each public-use campground (you can also score a beach permit along with beach essentials at the Visitor Info Center!). Also located on Padre Island, you can choose from a number of great campsites, including Malaquite Campground, Bird Island Basin Campground, North Beach, South Beach, or Yarborough Pass.

Campsites are available year-round, but only on a first-come, first-served basis. Campers can’t make reservations prior to arriving at the shore. Padre Island National Seashore is a great option for those who like to “rough it.” The nearest amenities to the park are roughly 12 miles away, and there is no food, firewood, or fishing licenses sold on site. So, make sure you plan ahead!

Goose Island State Park

Located in Corpus Christi’s surrounding areas, along St. Charles Bay and Aransas Bay, Goose Island State Park features campsites both along the bay and shaded beneath trees. Each camping loop has a restroom with showers, and all sites have access to water and electricity. There are also walk-in sites without electricity available.

Mustang Island

Mustang Island State Park offers two campsite options: primitive campsites on the beach and water and electric campsites behind the dunes. Primitive sites are available along 1.5 miles of beach. Ground fires are permitted at primitive sites, and campers are able to use the bathhouse at the park. Water and electric sites include a grill and picnic table with nearby restrooms.

There are endless opportunities to immerse yourself in Corpus Christi’s natural beauty, and tent camping is a great way to do it! If you’re looking for a more primitive camping experience, consider Mustang Island State Park or Padre Island National Seashore. If you want the experience of tent camping with more amenities, Padre Balli County Park or Goose Island State Park is your best bet.

Learn more about these tent camping sites and other camping options when planning your next trip to Corpus Christi here!