10 Galveston Camping Tips For The Ultimate Coastal Escape

1. Choose Your Camping Adventure

When it comes to camping, there's a sea of options that cater to all styles of campers. You can choose to pitch a tent on the beach or pull up your RV in one of the region's many RV resorts. For anyone seeking Galveston Island camping, the area features a range of scenic waterfront sites perfect for a relaxing getaway.

Galveston Island State Park caters to every type of camper, whether you want to pitch a tent along the shore or park your RV. There are two main camping sites next to Como Lake and on Seawall Boulevard, which include basic and premium sites, restrooms with showers, shade shelters, picnic tables and fire rings. Pick up a Bolivar Beach Parking permit at a local store or real estate agency, hop on the ferry and enjoy free camping along Bolivar Peninsula's 27 miles of beaches, too. You'll have to head to nearby Crystal Beach for restroom facilities, though. This setup is perfect for Galveston Island State Park camping enthusiasts who want easy access to picturesque shorelines and plenty of outdoor fun.

If you're not interested in "roughing it" in a tent under the Texas sun, Galveston is also home to several RV resorts. Oceanfront Stella Mare RV Park in Galveston opened in 2017 and is home to a splash pad, swimming pool, private lake (deck included), two dog parks, free Wi-Fi and spacious shower facilities. This is an ideal spot for families or groups craving resort-style comfort. Galveston Island RV Resort gives it a run for its money, though, with eco-friendly sites, a swimming pool with lounge facilities, a clubhouse with a wrap-around deck and a "bark park" for pets. These Galveston RV parks rank among the best for modern conveniences.

Another option is the family-favorite Jamaica RV Resort in Galveston. With two pools, a playground, volleyball facilities, outdoor movie nights and beach access, kids won't know where to begin.

2. Visit Galveston During The Shoulder Seasons

Summer is a wonderful season for Galveston camping with kids because they’re on vacation from school, but it's also the hottest time in Texas. And in winter, many "snowbirds" from the northern states flock to Galveston in their RVs to escape the cold weather. The best time of year to go camping in Galveston is either in spring or fall, when there are fewer crowds and pleasant weather.

All campsites and RV resorts have nightly rates. However, many also offer weekly and monthly rates during the off-season or their off-peak times (typically November to February) if you're eager to extend your stay. These extended rates often make RV camping in Galveston more budget-friendly for longer stays.

3. New Hobby Alert: Bird Watching

4. Galveston Camping Spots Go Fast

Summer is the peak season for camping in Galveston, making it essential to book your camp-related plans in advance. Many Galveston RV campgrounds can fill up quickly, so be sure to plan early.

Start by reserving a campsite at Galveston Island State Park and plan your trip around it. Another ideal camping trip tip is to secure a Texas State Park Pass, which you'll need if you decide to camp in Galveston Island State Park. The one-year pass gives you unlimited access to over 90 state parks. You'll also need a permit to camp on the Bolivar Peninsula, which you can purchase at several local stores — and check with local Texas law when fishing outside the Galveston State Park.

5. Plan For An Adventurous Galveston Camping Experience

6. Pack Smarter, Not Heavier

7. Bring Your Furry Friends Along

8. Prepare To Camp Knowing You’ll Get Wet

9. Can You Camp On Galveston Beach?

10. Mind The Snakes As You Camp

11. Assemble Your Crew: Galveston Camping Awaits

Galveston camping is a terrific experience, attracting family and friend groups from near and far. It’s also one of the world's busiest cruise ports. With unique local treasures to uncover and plenty of watersports to keep you cool on warmer days, this camping destination is sure to provide rest and discovery for your vacation. 

Explore beachfront camping in Galveston, TX, relax in upscale RV parks or set off on a luxurious cruise from Galveston — either way, make your escape unforgettable.