Mustang Island State Park
00 review9394 State Highway 361, Corpus Christi, Texas, 78418, United States
Mustang Island State Park
$4.00 - $7.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$10.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Day use fee is $7 per person aged 13 and older. Overnight camping fees are $5 per person for primitive camping and $10 for basic campsites.
About this campground
Where the vast Texas sky meets the endless Gulf of Mexico, Mustang Island State Park invites adventurers to experience coastal camping at its finest. Choose your own adventure: pitch your tent directly on the pristine beach for an authentic primitive camping experience, or settle into one of the well-appointed RV sites complete with water and electric hookups. Days here unfold with the rhythm of the tides—cast your line into the surf at dawn, explore miles of unspoiled shoreline, or simply lose yourself watching dolphins play in the waves while shorebirds dance along the water's edge.
Mustang Island State Park accommodates a wide variety of camping experiences, including primitive beach camping, RV camping with hookups, and tent camping.
Weather and SeasonsBlessed with a subtropical coastal climate, Mustang Island welcomes visitors year-round with its gentle seasons. Summer brings warm, sun-soaked days with temperatures climbing into the high 80s and low 90s—perfect for swimming and beachcombing. Winter offers a refreshing escape with comfortable temperatures hovering between 50 and 60 degrees, ideal for hiking and wildlife watching. The constant Gulf breeze keeps the air fresh, though coastal winds can pick up dramatically, adding to the wild, untamed character of this barrier island paradise.
ElevationThis barrier island sits at sea level, where land and ocean merge in a constantly shifting landscape shaped by wind, waves, and time.
Natural Features and SceneryMustang Island State Park showcases the raw beauty of the Texas Gulf Coast in all its glory. Miles of powdery sand beaches stretch as far as the eye can see, backed by rolling dunes crowned with sea oats swaying in the ocean breeze. The landscape transitions from open beach to protected dune systems adorned with coastal vegetation that has adapted to this salt-sprayed environment. Beachcombers delight in discovering colorful shells, watching ghost crabs scurry across the sand, and occasionally spotting translucent jellyfish washed ashore—reminders of the vibrant marine ecosystem just beyond the breakers.
Geological RegionThis dynamic barrier island represents millions of years of geological artistry, where the relentless Gulf of Mexico has sculpted a stunning landscape of shifting sands and protective dunes. The island serves as nature's buffer, protecting the mainland while creating a unique ecosystem where maritime forests, coastal prairies, and beach environments converge. Wind-carved dunes rise and fall like frozen waves, their soft sands holding the stories of countless storms and calm days alike.
Campsite details
Sites SizeSome reviewers noted that the RV sites have grassy areas near them, but they are closely packed together. For primitive camping, sites are spaced generously on the beach.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies based on the type of site. Primitive camping on the beach allows for more space, while RV sites are described as being too close together by some users.
Total Campsites50 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring 4x4 vehicles for primitive camping on soft sand. Wagons with large wheels are recommended for carrying items to the beach.
Best CampsitesPrimitive campsites are considered best for their proximity to the water and privacy.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
8:00 AM
Check-out
10:00 PM
Stay Limit
Park does have a 14-day limit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 8 people per primitive campsite.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCamping sites are laid out along a paved parking lot, with grassy areas at each site. Primitive campsites are located along the beach.
Open and Closed SeasonMustang Island State Park is open year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on the Texas State Parks website or by calling the park directly.
Walk-in AvailabilityPrimitive camping availability is first-come-first-serve. Call the park upon arrival for details.
Cancellation PolicyIf plans change, modify or cancel your reservation as soon as possible to allow others to use the park. Cancellation over the phone is possible, and a $50 penalty is applied for early departure.
Amenities available
Showers
Picnic tables
Dump station
WiFi
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Campers at Mustang Island State Park can engage in a variety of recreational activities including hiking, fishing, swimming, and wildlife viewing. Additional activities include biking, paddling, primitive beach camping, and guided tours.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available within the park, with surfaced paths suitable for a range of skill levels.Fishing
Fishing is described as a popular activity, and several reviews mentioned the joy of nighttime crab spotting. Specific fish species or fishing techniques were not detailed.Swimming
Swimming is available in the ocean. One reviewer described it as 'fun,' but others cautioned about the presence of jellyfish at certain times, emphasizing the need for extra sun protection.Biking
Biking is supported on surfaced roads and trails within the park.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a significant activity. Reviewers noted abundant crabs on the beach at night and the presence of beach squirrels.Beach activities
The beach is a main attraction, offering activities such as sandcastle building, sunbathing, and ocean swimming. Some user reviews highlighted issues such as litter and tar deposits on the beach.Cultural and Educational Programs
The park offers guided tours.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities were mentioned.Water Sports
No details about non-motorized water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding were included, but paddling trails are available.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed but must adhere to county burn bans.
Hazards
General hazardsSoft sand may require 4x4 vehicles for access. Burrs are reported as a nuisance for pets, and tar from storms can affect the beach.
Weather forecast
86
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 74%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 15.1 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services such as hospitals are located in Corpus Christi, approximately 15 miles away. Police stations and ranger station information are not explicitly detailed.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingDumpster facilities are available, and portable trash cans are located near the dunes at the beach. However, users expressed the need for additional trash cans along the beach for better litter control.
Proximity to water featuresThe park is directly adjacent to the Gulf of Mexico with access to beaches and swimming opportunities.
Common complaintsRestrooms and showers are sometimes not well-maintained. RV sites are very close together. Burrs cause difficulty for pets. Tar balls and jellyfish can be found on the beaches.
HostPark hosts are present but reviews criticize their responsiveness.
Campground Map
9394 State Highway 361, Corpus Christi, Texas, 78418, United States
Driving directionsFrom Houston: Take Hwy 59 South to Victoria. Take Hwy 77 South to Corpus Christi. Take SH 358 East to Park Road 22 to Padre Island. Then North On SH 361 for 5 miles to the park. OR On Hwy 77 at Sinton, take Hwy 181 to Gregory. Take SH 361 to Port Aransas, then 13 miles South to the park. From San Antonio: Take I 37 South to Corpus Christi. Take SH 358 East to Park Road 22 to Padre Island. Then North on SH 361 for 5 miles to the park.
The roads leading to the park include major highways such as Hwy 59, Hwy 77, and I-37. SH 361 is used for the final approach to Mustang Island State Park. Roads are paved, but some user reviews mention soft sand requiring 4x4 vehicles for camping on the beach.Nearby places
Corpus Christi: approximately 15 miles away
Port Aransas: approximately 13 miles away.
Nearby supplies
Supplies such as fuel, groceries, and camping necessities can be found in Corpus Christi (approximately 15 miles away). A Dollar Store is within a 10-minute drive.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Mustang Island State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Mustang Island State Park are mixed, with praise for the beach's natural beauty and accessibility, and criticisms about crowding, restroom maintenance, and litter. Many reviewers appreciated the convenience of camping directly on the beach.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Highlights include the beautiful and accessible beach, well-maintained amenities like showers, and various recreational opportunities such as swimming and fishing. 'The place is really nice,' one...
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Common Concerns
Common complaints include poorly maintained restrooms, crowded campsites, and issues with litter and tar deposits on the beach. One reviewer commented, 'The beach is filthy, covered in trash and...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommended arriving early to secure a spot, especially on weekends, and bringing items like wagons with big wheels to navigate the sand. 'Get there early as it tends to get pretty full around...
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Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews report jellyfish sightings and high temperatures with frequent winds. Spring and fall seem more favorable for camping based on the reviews, with cooler temperatures and fewer insect...
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Camper Quotes
1. 'Being able to park on the beach and set up your tent was super convenient.' (Herman Haynie) 2. 'Washrooms and showers are well maintained.' (Ajay Parmar) 3. 'The only thing were the...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Primitive camping on the beach received mixed reviews; some enjoyed the space and privacy, while others warned about high winds and soft sand that require 4x4 vehicles. RV camping sites were...
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Accessibility Features
No specific user reviews about accessibility features were identified.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but one review highlighted the issue of burrs that could be problematic for dogs. 'We have a small, fluffy Yorkshire Terrier and each time we took him out he was covered with burrs.'
Last updated August 10, 2025