Corpus Christi is the perfect getaway for outdoor lovers and families looking to reconnect with nature. Imagine pitching a tent right by the shore, listening to the waves, or finding a quiet nook under a shady tree to unwind in the Gulf Coast Capital’s serene landscapes. Whether you’re chasing the ideal ocean view or a peaceful hideaway, Corpus Christi has a camping spot that’s just right for you. Here are four fantastic tent camping locations to explore in Corpus Christi:
Padre Balli Park
Located on Padre Island, Padre Balli Park is open year-round for camping and other outdoor activities you and your family will enjoy!
- Large tent area with both water and electric hookups (30 AMP)
- ADA-accessible campsites
- Public restrooms
- Pay-per-use shower
- Dump and water fill
- Limited to 6 people, 2 vehicles, and 2 tents per site
Padre Island National Seashore
Camping at Padre Island National Seashore offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in nature, with scenic beachfront sites and a peaceful, rugged environment. You have two options: Campgrounds or Primitive Beach Camping.
General Camping Information:
- Park entrance fees required (7-day or annual pass required for overnight stays)
- Campsites are available on first-come, first-served basis
- No reservations accepted
- Short walk to the beach, but camping on the beach is not permitted
- Nearest amenities are about 13 miles away, and there is no food, firewood, or fishing licenses sold onsite, so be sure to plan ahead
- Limited cell service
Campgrounds (Malaquite or Bird Island Basin Campgrounds)
- Obtain self-issued camping permit (pay at self-registered kiosk at the entrance to the campgrounds)
Primitive Beach Camping
- Permit not required, but park entrance fees still apply
- May close temporarily due to hazardous conditions such as coastal flooding
- Always check weather report before visiting
- For more detailed information on specific beach mile markers, please new the NPS.gov website
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.
- 44 campsites by the bay
- 57 campsites nestled under oak trees
- Restroom with showers
- Access to water and electricity
- 25 walk-in tent sites without electricity available
Mustang Island State Park
Mustang Island State Park offers two campsite options: primitive campsites on the beach and water and electric campsites behind the dunes.
Primitive Campsites
- Available along 1.5 miles of beach
- Sites closed occasionally due to weather conditions
- Small beach campfires permitted
- Restrooms are 50 yards - 1.5 miles away from sites
- Beach bathhouse with full restrooms available at the park
- Swim at your own risk - no lifeguards available
- No reservations
Water & Electric Campsites
- Sites are not at the beach; they are located about 400 yards from the water
- Sites do not have fire rings; small campfires allowed at the beach, but not at the campsite
- Include grills and picnic tables
- Water and 50 AMP hookup
- Restrooms with showers available nearby
