Camping in Corpus Christi can mean waking up steps from the Gulf, settling into an RV site with the comforts of home, or heading farther down the coast for a more off-grid experience. From developed campgrounds with full hookups to primitive camping along miles of shoreline, these Corpus Christi beach camping spots offer a few different ways to spend the night by the water.

Padre Island National Seashore

Entrance Fee Required

For campers ready to trade city lights for miles of undeveloped coastline, Padre Island National Seashore offers camping within more than 130,000 acres of protected national seashore. Malaquite Campground and Bird Island Basin Campground both offer first-come, first-served camping, putting you close to the natural landscapes and outdoor experiences that make this stretch of the Texas coast stand out. An RV dump station and freshwater filling station are available near the entrance, but cell service is limited throughout the park, so come prepared to unplug.

Learn more about Padre Island National Seashore. 

Mustang Island State Park

Entrance Fee Required

Mustang Island State Park gives campers a little more choice when it comes to setting up near the beach. The park has 48 campsites with water and electricity, along with 50 primitive drive-up sites for travelers who prefer a simpler setup. Hot showers and a bathhouse add some welcome comforts, while ranger-led programs offer another way to explore the park. It’s a convenient option for families and campers who want time along the coast without giving up every amenity.

Learn more about Mustang Island State Park. 

Padre Balli Park

Beach Permit Required

Padre Balli Park makes it easy to bring the RV and stay close to the Gulf. The county park has nearly 100 paved RV sites with full hookups, along with 12 hardtop tent sites equipped with electricity and water. Campers also have access to a bathhouse and WiFi, giving you a comfortable home base for spending your days on Padre Island and your evenings close to the beach.

Learn more about Padre Balli Park. 

North Packery Channel Beach | J.P. Luby

Beach Permit Required

For campers who want to stay close to the action, North Packery Channel Beach offers the chance to set up along the Gulf with surfing and watersports right outside your door. RVs are a common sight along this stretch of beach, where you can wake up by the water and head straight for the waves. With surfing, kiteboarding, wakeboarding, and jet skiing all part of the scene, North Packery is a good fit for campers who want their beach stay with a little more adventure.

Learn more about North Packery Channel Beach. 

Beach Parking Permits

Planning to park right on the sand? A $12 beach parking permit is required for vehicles parked along designated sections of Whitecap Beach, North Packery Beach/J.P. Luby, and Padre Balli Park. Permits are valid for the calendar year and can be purchased at locations throughout Corpus Christi, while off-beach parking does not require a permit.

Learn more about Beach Permits and Fishing Licenses.

Ready to camp along the Corpus Christi coast? Explore more Corpus Christi beaches to find the right spot for your trip, then check out things to do and upcoming events for more ways to spend your time off the sand. Sign up for our newsletter and browse our visitor guides for local ideas, trip inspiration, and more ways to plan your stay.