Located between the Gulf of Mexico and Galveston Bay, this park is the last undeveloped area on Galveston Island and includes a top-rated gulf coast beach, dunes, wetlands, coastal prairie, lagoon, and salt marshes. Several miles of trails offer opportunities for hiking, biking, and paddling for all ability levels. Fishing is also popular, with anglers casting their line in the bay or surf. The park is also home to a wide range of wildlife, including more than 300 species of birds. Families will enjoy the excellent ranger-led programs, including star parties, paddling tours, and art programs, and can spend the night at one of several campgrounds that offer sites for tents, RVs, and lodges.

• Best for RVs: The Bay Side Campground offers 20 water and electric sites with a communal pavilion and shared fire rings.
• Best for beach access: The Beach Side Campground has 36 sites right by the Gulf of Mexico.
• Best for families and groups: Two ADA-accessible lodges offer kitchens, bathrooms, air conditioning, heat, washers, and dryers.

1. Campsites can be reserved up to five months in advance. Make a reservation as soon as you know your dates, especially for weekends during the peak season of March to October.
2. If your plans are flexible and you want to beat the crowds, try to visit during the week, during non-holiday periods, or during late fall or winter. The park is open year-round.
3. If visiting as part of a group, consider booking the cabins, which can be reserved up to 12 months in advance.

Summer is the most popular season at Galveston Island State Park, even though it can get quite hot and crowded. Visit during the spring and fall migration seasons to see a wide variety of birds. Peak season rental rates apply from March to October. Be sure to check the weather before confirming plans during hurricane season, from June to November, as the park closes for tropical storms and hurricanes. The nature center is open on weekends only.

• There’s very little shade in the park, so bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water. Mosquito repellent and hiking boots are also a good idea.
• Bring binoculars for spotting birds and wildlife, and make use of the bird blinds and two observation towers.
• Fishing licenses are not required to fish from shore, and fishing equipment rentals are available.
• Open containers and public consumption of alcohol are prohibited in the park.
• The park has no lifeguards.
• Bring your own kayak or canoe, as rentals are not available.