The best river, stream, or creek RV campgrounds near Galveston, Texas

Nestled on the Texas Gulf Coast, Galveston offers breathtaking camping experiences where beaches are always close by. Galveston Island is long and narrow with over 30 miles of beaches on the inland side facing West Bay and the ocean side facing the Gulf of Mexico, excellent for sunbathing, beachcombing, swimming, fishing, kayaking, boating, and birdwatching, too. San Luis Pass County Park and Galveston Island State Park feature beachfront camping on the island, but more rustic, primitive campsites are available inland at Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge where campers can spot bobcats, white-tailed deer, marsh rabbits, and waterfowl like herons and sandpipers.

95% (144)

Top-rated campgrounds

We love Sargent beach! Tides impact the amount of beach available in various spots on the island.

Nestled on the Texas Gulf Coast, Galveston offers breathtaking camping experiences where beaches are always close by. Galveston Island is long and narrow with over 30 miles of beaches on the inland side facing West Bay and the ocean side facing the Gulf of Mexico, excellent for sunbathing, beachcombing, swimming, fishing, kayaking, boating, and birdwatching, too. San Luis Pass County Park and Galveston Island State Park feature beachfront camping on the island, but more rustic, primitive campsites are available inland at Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge where campers can spot bobcats, white-tailed deer, marsh rabbits, and waterfowl like herons and sandpipers.

95% (144)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Camp Nadur at Sargent Beach

97%

(72)

47mi from Galveston · 1 site · RV · Sargent, TX

Nestled between the Gulf of Mexico and the Intercoastal Waterway, Sargent Island, with its unique, water-front home sites, was created in the 1950s. A quiet community, we feel Sargent is an oasis away from the crowds and congestion of other beach-side communities. We love taking a break from our busy lives to listen to the waves roaring down the shore. We think you'll love it, too! Learn more about this land: This is a 8000 sq ft privately owned, ocean-side lot. Located on a barrier island in Sargent, TX, the site offers a neighborhood atmosphere, with a secluded, unobstructed beach view. There is an approximately 30x30 gravel pad and long driveway. The property is beach front, but dune area/beach may not be accessible by foot (depends on tidal flow, rainfall, Gulf storms etc.). Full beach access is about 1/4 mile down the road. This is a subdivision--there is a neighbor on our right side. This is an RV lot only. This property suits smaller to midsize RVs and most wheeled campers (but no ground tents--there is too much ground wildlife for safety, though elevated, vehicle-mounted tents are fine). The property is still in development. We currently have electricity (110v, 30, 50 amp), water, but NO SEWER OR SEPTIC. You must bring your own toilet facilities with you and take the waste away. NOTE: Public Toilet facilities and trash available 1.5 miles away. We do provide a picnic table, but it changes often--we lose them in storms, lol. You'll also have a clothes line and a canopy as wind/storms permit. If you're an introvert, dislike traffic or just like breathing room, you'll love quiet, crowd-free, Sargent beach. It's such a peaceful getaway! ISLAND LIFE NOTE: This is the Texas Gulf Coast--we have mosquitos, and it's the state bird for a reason! Please bring SPRAY. We never guarantee a bug-free experience. This gorgeous, island property is vulnerable to the extreme weather conditions on the Texas Gulf Coast. It's a dynamic property, shifting and changing, depending on the weather--we try our best to maintain this property in a timely manner, but we can't control this Mother Nature factor! There may be times we cannot put up the shade canopy due to high winds, other aspects of the property may have shifted, there may not be a beach due to high tides, you may not be able to walk to the beach from the property, etc. Please ask questions and we'll communicate what's available at your booking time. Our strict cancellation policy encourages good communication at time of booking. We do not grant refunds for rain, tidal flow, or any other natural element beyond our control. Keep in mind HipCamp may offer weather insurance for you.

2. Canal Front with Fishing Pier

94%

(17)

49mi from Galveston · 6 sites · RVs · Jones Creek, TX

This RV Spot has it all! Located on the canal, it is fenced and also has a large cover for shade! (NO TENT/CAR CAMPING) There's even a fishing light for night time fishing! The site has a 50amp hookup for electric, sewer and water. Enjoy fishing and beautiful views on site, or it's just a quick 5 minute drive to Sargent Beach. You'll love the laid back coastal life here in Sargent!

3. Bella's Place on The Bayou

100%

(3)

24mi from Galveston · 1 site · RV · Angleton, TX

Imagine your own private, waterfront, two acres on Bastrop Bayou with just a short fifteen minute drive to one of the best beaches on the Texas coast. Surfside beach is just a thought away from this quiet, secluded RV campsite, tucked away from the crowds. Enjoy the fifty foot boat dock, and RV hook ups with both 50A and 30A power. Water and septic included. This beautiful property also comes with a fenced in dog yard, so bring the pups.

4. Brickhouse RV Resort

25mi from Galveston · 87 sites · RVs, Lodging · Kemah, TX

Brickhouse RV Resort is Kemah’s premier RV destination, perfectly nestled in Clear Lake Shores just off FM 2094 behind Jackie’s Brickhouse Restaurant. Designed for comfort and convenience, the resort offers a wide range of amenities to enhance your stay. Guests can relax in the beautiful, crystal-clear pool located along the peaceful Jarboe Bayou, where the natural breeze creates a cool, enjoyable atmosphere throughout the day. The pool is shaded with a sail canopy, providing extra relief during hot Texas summers. For pet owners, our fenced dog park is the perfect place for your unleashed pet to roam and enjoy the pet exercise equipment. Complimentary pet waste bags are available throughout the park for your convenience. At Brickhouse RV Resort, RV travelers can enjoy spacious, well-designed sites perfect for rigs of all sizes. We offer both 65-foot back-in RV sites and wide 45-foot back-in sites, providing plenty of room for comfort and convenience. Each site is equipped with 20/30/50-amp hookups and built with a 60-degree slant for easy maneuvering. Whether you’re setting up for a weekend stay or a longer retreat, our layout makes arrival and departure smooth and hassle-free. Our wide RV sites offer enough room for extra vehicle parking or the option to set up a picnic area beside your RV. With forty-seven well-maintained sites throughout the resort, guests are guaranteed ample space to stretch out and settle in. These thoughtfully arranged sites offer both privacy and community, making it easy to relax or connect with fellow travelers during your stay. For guests seeking an elevated RV experience in Kemah, TX, we offer four Premium RV Sites located along the scenic Jarboe Bayou. These sites boast refreshing sea breezes year-round and are ideal for up to four guests. With their tranquil waterfront setting, they provide a peaceful backdrop for your stay. Our Premium RV Sites are also located near some of the resort’s top features, including the pool, dog park, fishing pier, and relaxation park. This convenient access allows you to enjoy all the best that Brickhouse RV Resort has to offer right outside your door.

5. Salty Dog Holidays

100%

(4)

26mi from Galveston · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Crystal Beach, TX

Short-term RV campground with private access to fishing, crabbing, and boating less than a mile from Crystal Beach, Texas! Choose to stay in our beautiful brand new 35’ travel trailer or choose to bring your own. Whether you’re boondocking, traveling, or camping, our private spacious RV lots are truly one of a kind.

6. Rustic creek

93%

(7)

36mi from Galveston · 21 sites · Tents, RVs · Rosharon, TX

There is no history to this land I know of .Learn more about this land:lots of trees one side you can see some homes . 30 minutes from beaches and houston fort bend state park dow the road. No amminitties just yet as wee grow will add

7. Fish Tales

38mi from Galveston · 1 site · RV · Bolivar Peninsula, TX

You'll cherish your time at this unforgettable destination. Situated within walking distance from the beach, this property boasts a spacious yard right on the canal, perfect for fishing and crabbing. Just a mile down the road, you'll find access to the beach along with a private boat ramp. The RV site is conveniently covered and located on a large concrete area. The cover offers shade from the scorching Texas heat and protection from any unexpected rain showers. Full hookups, septic,water,and electric! And of course the wonderful cool sea breeze coming off the water! Great for crabbing and fishing. You can drive your boat right up to the campground.

8. Waterside RV Resort

93%

(7)

48mi from Galveston · 11 sites · RVs · Bay City, TX

Waterside RV Resort, located in Sargent, TX is a luxury RV destination on the Gulf Coast. Covering one acre, we offer 11 extra-large RV sites, each with a Texas-sized 18 x 50 concrete pad and 1,500 feet of personal space. We are big-rig, pet, and eco-friendly. Enjoy 350 feet of private waterfront, great for fishing, crabbing, or just plain or R&R. Dock your boat park-side and access great Sargent fishing or coastal exploration directly from the park. Waterside amenities include full hookups, high-speed internet, large, level concrete pads, and a wide concrete driveway for easy parking. Our guest-only dock is a great place to take in world-class sunsets, enjoy family time, or have a friendly game of cornhole or horseshoes at Waterside Park. Opened in June 2022, Waterside is a family-owned, small business. As long-time RV-ers, the resort includes our favorite camping elements...waterfront spaces, wide spots with extra-large, level concrete pads, nice grass, and plenty of green space. We are just 90 miles from Houston and a million miles from hustle and bustle. The best-kept secret on the Gulf Coast. For beach, fishing, sunsets, or just R&R, Waterside RV Resort is your destination!

9. Walter's on the Water Sargent TX

100%

(1)

48mi from Galveston · 5 sites · RVs · Sargent, TX

Walter's on the Water is a 4-space waterfront retreat just minutes from Sargent Beach! Located on a canal, you're just steps from water and fishing fun! (NO TENT/CAR CAMPING) Each RV space has a 20x40 concrete pad, full hookups with both 30 & 50 amp electrical. There are 3 shared piers available with fishing lights for night time fishing, so bring your fishing poles and crab traps! The park has wifi and is pet friendly too! Rent 1 or all 4 spots and come with friends/family! This listing is for 1 RV parking space only - please BYORV.. bring your own RV. Please reach out first if interested in renting multiple spaces or weekly/monthly.

10. Red's Spot

100%

(1)

49mi from Galveston · 1 site · RV · Sargent, TX

Come and enjoy this waterfront RV spot (NO TENT/CAR CAMPING) with a huge concrete pad (55 ft long/34 ft wide!), 2 hookups - one is motorhome ready, with both 30 & 50 amp hookups! You'll love waking up on the water, having coffee on the pier (fishing pole optional!).. take a quick drive to the beach, just to name a few things! Close to Sargent's best restaurants and food trucks, close to bait camps and boat ramps too. This is an excellent location in Sargent, and there is plenty of room for an RV and a boat or even 2 RVs (see note below if interested in bringing 2 RV's) A few specifics: 55ft x 34ft concrete pad "Big Rig Ready" Two Full Hookups - One is for a motorhome pull in and the other is a back in site 30 & 50 Amp Fishing pier with seating and covered cleaning station **There is room for 2 drivable motorhomes, OR 1 motorhome and 1 bumper-pull/5th wheel - please call to discuss price and logistics before booking, if interested in this!!**

11. Magnolia Gardens Park

85%

(87)

49mi from Galveston · 60 sites · Tents, RVs · Sheldon, TX

Located steps from the San Jacinto River Historic Magnolia Gardens Park. Have your coffee riverside as the steam rises off the warm water. Observing the abundant wildlife. If a secluded GREEN space is what you're looking for, you fond it!Learn more about this land:Located on the sandy beaches of the San Jacinto River, Magnolia Gardens park. We offer a family environment you can picnic, camp, swim, fish, kayak, and rent jet skis. Set up your tent on the beach, or in the wooded areas. You can drive around the property till you find the perfect spot. There are areas near electric plugs 🔌 not Available in all areas of the park. If u wish for secluded camp site. We have plenty of space away from The world. Disconnect to reconnect

Camper favorites near Galveston

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Fish Tales

38mi from Galveston · 1 site · RV · Bolivar Peninsula, TX

You'll cherish your time at this unforgettable destination. Situated within walking distance from the beach, this property boasts a spacious yard right on the canal, perfect for fishing and crabbing. Just a mile down the road, you'll find access to the beach along with a private boat ramp. The RV site is conveniently covered and located on a large concrete area. The cover offers shade from the scorching Texas heat and protection from any unexpected rain showers. Full hookups, septic,water,and electric! And of course the wonderful cool sea breeze coming off the water! Great for crabbing and fishing. You can drive your boat right up to the campground.

Waterside RV Resort

93%

(7)

48mi from Galveston · 11 sites · RVs · Bay City, TX

Waterside RV Resort, located in Sargent, TX is a luxury RV destination on the Gulf Coast. Covering one acre, we offer 11 extra-large RV sites, each with a Texas-sized 18 x 50 concrete pad and 1,500 feet of personal space. We are big-rig, pet, and eco-friendly. Enjoy 350 feet of private waterfront, great for fishing, crabbing, or just plain or R&R. Dock your boat park-side and access great Sargent fishing or coastal exploration directly from the park. Waterside amenities include full hookups, high-speed internet, large, level concrete pads, and a wide concrete driveway for easy parking. Our guest-only dock is a great place to take in world-class sunsets, enjoy family time, or have a friendly game of cornhole or horseshoes at Waterside Park. Opened in June 2022, Waterside is a family-owned, small business. As long-time RV-ers, the resort includes our favorite camping elements...waterfront spaces, wide spots with extra-large, level concrete pads, nice grass, and plenty of green space. We are just 90 miles from Houston and a million miles from hustle and bustle. The best-kept secret on the Gulf Coast. For beach, fishing, sunsets, or just R&R, Waterside RV Resort is your destination!

Walter's on the Water Sargent TX

100%

(1)

48mi from Galveston · 5 sites · RVs · Sargent, TX

Walter's on the Water is a 4-space waterfront retreat just minutes from Sargent Beach! Located on a canal, you're just steps from water and fishing fun! (NO TENT/CAR CAMPING) Each RV space has a 20x40 concrete pad, full hookups with both 30 & 50 amp electrical. There are 3 shared piers available with fishing lights for night time fishing, so bring your fishing poles and crab traps! The park has wifi and is pet friendly too! Rent 1 or all 4 spots and come with friends/family! This listing is for 1 RV parking space only - please BYORV.. bring your own RV. Please reach out first if interested in renting multiple spaces or weekly/monthly.

Red's Spot

100%

(1)

49mi from Galveston · 1 site · RV · Sargent, TX

Come and enjoy this waterfront RV spot (NO TENT/CAR CAMPING) with a huge concrete pad (55 ft long/34 ft wide!), 2 hookups - one is motorhome ready, with both 30 & 50 amp hookups! You'll love waking up on the water, having coffee on the pier (fishing pole optional!).. take a quick drive to the beach, just to name a few things! Close to Sargent's best restaurants and food trucks, close to bait camps and boat ramps too. This is an excellent location in Sargent, and there is plenty of room for an RV and a boat or even 2 RVs (see note below if interested in bringing 2 RV's) A few specifics: 55ft x 34ft concrete pad "Big Rig Ready" Two Full Hookups - One is for a motorhome pull in and the other is a back in site 30 & 50 Amp Fishing pier with seating and covered cleaning station **There is room for 2 drivable motorhomes, OR 1 motorhome and 1 bumper-pull/5th wheel - please call to discuss price and logistics before booking, if interested in this!!**

Magnolia Gardens Park

85%

(87)

49mi from Galveston · 60 sites · Tents, RVs · Sheldon, TX

Located steps from the San Jacinto River Historic Magnolia Gardens Park. Have your coffee riverside as the steam rises off the warm water. Observing the abundant wildlife. If a secluded GREEN space is what you're looking for, you fond it!Learn more about this land:Located on the sandy beaches of the San Jacinto River, Magnolia Gardens park. We offer a family environment you can picnic, camp, swim, fish, kayak, and rent jet skis. Set up your tent on the beach, or in the wooded areas. You can drive around the property till you find the perfect spot. There are areas near electric plugs 🔌 not Available in all areas of the park. If u wish for secluded camp site. We have plenty of space away from The world. Disconnect to reconnect

Public campgrounds near Galveston

91%

(16)

Brazos Bend Campground

40mi from Galveston · 107 sites · Tents, RVs · in Brazos Bend State Park

Stories from the community

M

Meghan

3 weeks ago

20 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Camp Nadur at Sargent Beach

Great place to camp and fish. It’s one of our favorite places!

N

Nichole

September 2025

30 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Camp Nadur at Sargent Beach

Always a good stay! Sunrises are amazing. Quiet place that is always clean. 100% would recommend it, but kind of want to keep it a secret lol the place is so nice.

A

Alan

September 2025

21 ft Class B

With pets

Weekend Trip to Magnolia Gardens Park

My dog and I enjoyed a quiet peaceful visit to Magnolia Gardens and were so relaxed walking along the San Jacinto River while the train made its way across the old trestle bridge at the far end of the park. Very nice place and the sunset over the river was icing on the cake! Thanks!

S

Steven

September 2025

37 ft travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Bella's Place on The Bayou

We had a great time. Took the family and three dogs. Has a dedicated fenced dog run. Very private location right on the Bayou. Has a great private dock with good fishing. Caught redfish, blue crabs, spotted sea trout, black drum, catfish, bluegill, ladyfish and alligator gar all in one spot. The hookups were in the perfect location and did not require a long 50amp cord or septic hoses. Surfside beach is only 18 minutes away for your beach fix and good food. 10/10 would recommend to anyone. Great host and great spot.

P

Petra

August 2025

33 ft travel trailer

With pets

4 nights at Walter's on the Water Sargent TX

Small RV park very well kept has nice docks for fishing and close to the beach. Pads are oversized so plenty of room for most RVs.

C

Corrianne

July 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Magnolia Gardens Park

Very laid back camp ground with options to camp under the trees or on the river bank. We will definitely return.

K

Kevin

July 2025

14 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Camp Nadur at Sargent Beach

Convenient short walk to the beach, less than 100 yards

E

Embret

July 2025

20 ft pop-up camper

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Camp Nadur at Sargent Beach

We had a great time camping here. It was right by the beach which was perfect. We did a lot of fishing so it was nice to have the ocean right there. You really can't beat the value. We would definitely come here again.

M

Meghan

July 2025

20 ft travel trailer

Group trip

3 nights at Camp Nadur at Sargent Beach

We had the best time fishing, swimming, and relaxing at Camp Nadur. We are already planning our next visit. Even on a very busy holiday weekend it was SO peaceful. Shockingly we had the beach to ourself most of the time. It’s a fantastic spot! Thanks Kirk and Emily for sharing your place.

Chris

June 2025

16 ft car

With pets

Weekend Trip to Camp Nadur at Sargent Beach

Nice campsite for a great price , right on the beach . Caught a nice Bull Red , and quite a few gaftop in the surf . Will definitely be back again.

Karen

June 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Salty Dog Holidays

Perfect little camp spot for teaching the grandkids how to crab and learning how to cast for our 6 year old. No keepers but they had lots of fun! We’ll be back soon to try again! ☀️🏝️⛱️🦀

A

Angeles

June 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Magnolia Gardens Park

Open to public 7am-7pm very lively with jet skies, people playing, music, and cook outs. Once all non-campers leave its very calm area and you have the whole property to yourself. Wake up to a beautiful scenery. There're lose dogs but calm and don't bother anyone. Staff is very friendly. Clean place trash cans placed around property and dumped out daily, clean restrooms, rarely any branches

J

Jessi

June 2025

16 ft car

3 nights at Camp Nadur at Sargent Beach

Great getaway spot to enjoy the beach and watch the boats come in. I didn't have a good experience on my own equipment part and didn't get to stay the full stint that I wanted to. But the kind people Emily and her husband Kirk they refunded me for the days I didn't even stay. I highly recommend them!

b

beau

June 2025

Tent

Group trip

2 nights at Magnolia Gardens Park

It was pretty good overall. Camping was fun fun funny a grand jolly time! The beach was cool too

C

Cheri

May 2025

16 ft car

1 night at Camp Nadur at Sargent Beach

Nice, quiet spot, steps from the granite breakwater. Easy to get to, power and water onsite!

D

Denise

April 2025

28 ft travel trailer

1 night at Magnolia Gardens Park

It was a little confusing as there was no designated Campspot. Just a lot of picnic tables. So we parked near one and set up camp with our RV for the night. We loved how private it was and quiet it was. Now that I understand how it works. I would definitely go back again.

A

Amy

March 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Rustic creek

Great location and host Woukd definitely stay again

M

Michelle

March 2025

29 ft travel trailer

With pets

5 nights at Camp Nadur at Sargent Beach

Quiet, easy walk to the Gulf. Areas to walk, bike and boat. We really enjoyed our visit. We would return, it was a highlight to our trip to Texas.

A

Aaron

March 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Magnolia Gardens Park

It was the perfect camp set up. A hill overlooking the river and nobody crowding your site. The Managers were sincere and friendly. Maria brought fresh coffee at 7 am and hung out with us. Real good people. Loved everything about it! Definitely coming back!

A

Adina

March 2025

32 ft Class C

With kids

1 night at Camp Nadur at Sargent Beach

Excellent family friendly place to stay near the ocean! Had 3 days of relaxation there!

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

91%

(16)

Brazos Bend State Park

Sandy Point, Texas

Other options near Galveston

Shipman's Landing RV Park

25mi from Galveston · 31 sites · Freeport, TX

Welcome to Shipman's Landing RV Park, where family-owned charm meets the beauty of nature. Our park stands out as Freeport's newest and most desirable RV destination, offering exclusive access to on-site fishing and bird watching. Each of our sites features full hook-ups and is designed for easy accessibility, accommodating RVs of all sizes, including those up to 55 feet long. With various amp hook-ups available, we ensure that your stay is comfortable and convenient. Located just a short distance from local restaurants and vibrant nightlife, Shipman's Landing RV Park is the perfect base for exploring the area. Experience the thrill of fishing in our renowned red fishing hole or enjoy the natural beauty surrounding us. Come visit and discover why Shipman's Landing RV Park is the ultimate choice for your Surfside Beach getaway!

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

Gulf Coast 5 Star RV Resort

25mi from Galveston · 11 sites · Oyster Creek, TX

Gulf Coast 5 Star RV Resort stands out as a premier destination for both workforce crews and RV enthusiasts, offering a serene escape near the Intracoastal Waterway and the Gulf of Mexico. Nestled in the charming community of Oyster Creek, Texas, this resort is surrounded by a wealth of outdoor activities, including exceptional fishing, delightful dining options, unique shopping experiences, and the scenic Bryan Beach State Park. This gated, concrete-paved resort is conveniently located just a few miles from Surfside Beach, Quintana, and Freeport, making it an ideal base for exploring the stunning South Gulf Coast. With Houston and Galveston only 60 and 50 miles away, respectively, guests can easily access urban attractions while enjoying the tranquility of the countryside. Gulf Coast 5 Star RV Resort boasts a variety of amenities designed for comfort and convenience. Guests can enjoy 24-hour access, high-speed WiFi, clean showers, and restrooms. Families will appreciate the playground and BBQ pavilion, while those needing to do laundry will find on-site facilities. Additionally, the resort offers water and sewage hookups with electricity, ensuring a hassle-free stay. Located just off E Highway 332 and FM 523, this resort is the perfect getaway for those seeking relaxation and adventure in Texas

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best river, stream, or creek RV camping near Galveston guide

Where to go

Galveston Island State Park

On the west end of Galveston Island, this 2,000-acre state park offers beachfront and bayside camping with tent campsites including picnic tables, water pumps, and fire rings, plus nearby restrooms and shared showers. RV campers can choose between dry campsites for their trailers and motorhomes or RV sites with 50-amp hookups for electricity. While staying at or near Galveston Island State Park, Hipcampers can go paddling, mountain biking, hiking, or fishing—no license required for catching mackerel and jacks from shore.

San Luis Pass County Park

Just across San Luis Pass on the far west end of Galveston Island is the 15-acre San Luis Pass County Park, a bay park promising a quieter escape from everyday life. Full-service RV camping with hookups for 30-amp and 50-amp service, plus water and sewage is available, as are back-in and pull-through sites for campers and trailers. While tent camping isn’t allowed, the park has two rental cabins—ideal for catching the iconic sunsets at San Luis Park. Anglers will also appreciate the boat launches and on-site fish cleaning stations.

Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge

A not-so-hidden secret less than an hour’s drive from Galveston’s beaches is Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge. This 44,000-acre wildlife refuge is one of the most biologically rich environments in Texas and home to a stunning variety of migratory birds in winter, including 24 species of ducks and 13 species of sparrows. Alligators, frogs, salamanders, coyotes, and hawks are here year-round. Overnight camping is not allowed in the park, but nearby campsites, rental cabins, and RV parks provide easy access to this wildlife-spotting wonderland.

When to go

Galveston is a great destination for year-round camping in Texas—most campsites are open throughout the year, though some activities may be limited during winter. Campgrounds tend to be less busy in the spring and fall, and the weather is milder with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to the mid-80s. Spring brings beautiful wildflowers and greenery to the parks and trails near Galveston. Summer can get hot and humid, as high as the mid-90s, but it’s also a popular time of year for water activities. Winter is a bit cooler, as low as the mid-40s, with opportunities to spot migratory birds, nesting sea turtles, and sun-bathing alligators.