Goose Island State Park
00 review202 S. PALMETTO STREET, ROCKPORT, Texas, 78382, United States
Goose Island State Park
$4.00 - $5.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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 $5 per person aged 13 and older. Overnight fishing incurs an additional $4 fee per person aged 13 and older, plus the day use fee.
About this campground
Where ancient oaks meet sparkling bay waters, Goose Island State Park beckons with two captivating worlds in one destination. Choose your adventure: wake to sunrise painting Aransas Bay from waterfront RV sites, or retreat into the enchanting solitude of wooded campsites, where centuries-old live oaks create natural cathedrals of shade and serenity.
This campground accommodates both RV and tent camping, with designated areas for each type. Two main camping areas are available: wooded and bayfront.
Historical SignificanceStand in awe beneath the legendary Big Tree, a majestic coastal live oak that has witnessed over a millennium of Texas history. This ancient sentinel, with its massive twisted trunk and sprawling canopy, serves as a living monument to the enduring spirit of the Texas coast.
Weather and SeasonsYear-round coastal magic awaits, with gentle winter days perfect for wildlife watching, refreshing spring breezes that whisper through the oaks, and sun-drenched summers ideal for bay adventures. Winter transforms the park into a birder's paradise, when the magnificent Whooping Cranes make their annual pilgrimage to these protected shores.
ElevationNestled at sea level where land embraces the Gulf, this coastal haven offers the intimate connection between earth and water that defines the Texas shoreline experience.
Natural Features and SceneryDiscover a coastal sanctuary where graceful deer emerge from maritime forests at dusk, shorebirds dance along pristine beaches, and windswept live oaks frame breathtaking bay vistas. Wander shaded trails through groves of gnarled oaks draped in Spanish moss, or lose yourself in the rhythmic lapping of bay waters against the shore. This unique convergence of woodland and waterfront creates an ever-changing tapestry of natural beauty.
Geological RegionPerched on the edge of Aransas Bay along the Texas Coastal Bend, this remarkable landscape showcases the meeting of land and sea. Here, ancient coastal live oak forests thrive in harmony with bayfront ecosystems, creating a distinctive habitat where wooded highlands give way to tidal marshes and protected waters teeming with life.
Campsite details
AccessibilityOne visitor noted issues finding their campsite, suggesting signage improvements might be beneficial. No other accessibility features were described.
Sites PrivacyCampsites in the wooded areas are described as private and secluded, while waterfront sites offer little to no privacy but have scenic views.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesConsider bayside sites for waterfront views. Wooded sites are suitable for privacy and shade.
Best CampsitesSite 131 is described as peaceful. Bayside sites offer stunning sunrises and sunsets.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
- Check-in details include contacting Park Headquarters for late arrivals after 10 PM
- guests must finalize check-in by 9 AM the following morning.
Stay Limit
Stay limit details are unclear.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Typically accommodates RVs or multiple tents in certain sites.
Groups
No specific details about group sites were provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutTwo primary areas: bayside RV sites and wooded inland sites. Bayside sites lack privacy but offer direct waterfront access, while wooded sites are secluded.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round. Some facilities may be subject to seasonal weather impacts.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online or by contacting Park Headquarters at 361-729-2858.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not specified, but the park is often fully booked.
Cancellation PolicyModify or cancel reservations as soon as possible to accommodate other visitors. Contact Park Headquarters for further instructions.
Amenities available
Showers
Picnic tables
Dump station
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Goose Island State Park provides ample recreational opportunities including bird watching, fishing, hiking, paddling, and wildlife viewing.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available, including the Turks Cap Trail. Additional reviews highlight interpretive trails and areas for peaceful walks.Fishing
Fishing is a major activity at the park, with many reviews praising the fishing pier and opportunities to fish right from campsites. However, there are mixed reviews about success rates, as some found fishing less fruitful.Boating
Boating is supported, with a boat ramp available within the facility. However, some reviews criticized early morning noise from airboats.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a major highlight. Visitors have spotted deer, raccoons, and the endangered Whooping Crane in nearby areas during the winter season.Cultural and Educational Programs
Guided tours and interpretive trails are available. One visitor mentioned participating in a night exploration with volunteers.Winter Activities
Birdwatching opportunities are enhanced in the winter, with Whooping Cranes migrating to nearby areas.Water Sports
Kayak rentals are available at the park, facilitating paddling activities.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires prohibited in some areas. Specific rules for bayside versus wooded sites not detailed.
- Quiet hours are enforced but specific times are not listed.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitos are a common issue, especially in wooded areas. Early morning noise caused by airboats has been a significant disturbance for many visitors.
Active alertsWater conservation advisory due to dry conditions. Visitors are encouraged to bring drinking water or purchase bottled water at the park.
Weather forecast
87
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 71%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 14 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Clear sky
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
Closest emergency contact numbers include Park Headquarters (361-729-2858) and After-Hours Emergency (361-238-6886).
Good to know
Trash and recyclingNo specific details about trash or recycling facilities were provided, but one review noted dumpsters were far from campsites.
Proximity to water featuresAransas Bay is the primary water feature within the park. A fishing pier extends into the bay.
Common complaintsFrequent mosquito presence in wooded areas, loud airboat operations during early mornings, and equipment placement issues in RV sites.
HostPark rangers and staff are generally helpful and knowledgeable based on user reviews.
Campground Map
202 S. PALMETTO STREET, ROCKPORT, Texas, 78382, United States
Driving directionsFrom Corpus Christi: Take Hwy 181 North to Hwy 35. Turn right and continue through Rockport for 10 miles North. Turn right on Park Road 13 for approximately 1 1/2 miles to Park entrance. From Houston: Take Hwy 59 South to Victoria. Take Hwy 77 South 21 miles Hwy 239. Turn left and go to Texas 35. Turn South and go to Park Road 13. Turn left for approximately 1 1/2 miles to Park entrance.
Accessible year-round. Main roads leading to the campground are paved and suitable for passenger vehicles and RVs.Nearby places
Rockport (approximately 2 miles, 5 minutes), Corpus Christi (approximately 35 miles, 45 minutes), Lamar (approximately 10 miles, 15 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Rockport provides grocery stores, camping supplies, fuel stations, and a bait shop for fishing supplies.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Goose Island State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Goose Island State Park receives mixed reviews. The scenic views, wildlife, and recreational activities are praised by many, but issues with noise from airboats and mosquitoes are noted.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Visitors appreciated the beautiful views, especially from the waterfront sites, the well-maintained facilities, and the availability of fishing and birdwatching. Clean restrooms and friendly staff...
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Common Concerns
Noise from early morning airboats, mosquitoes, lack of privacy at some sites, and issues such as odor near the fish cleaning station were frequently mentioned by visitors.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
One reviewer suggested bringing mosquito spray due to high mosquito activity. Another recommended advance reservations, especially for shaded sites.
Seasonal Insights
Winter is highlighted for birdwatching due to the presence of Whooping Cranes. Summers are noted to be hot with increased mosquito activity.
Camper Quotes
'Beautiful park, has beach front lots that comes with 50 amp service plus water.' (Anne McLeod) 'Definitely recommend for a vacation or some camping.' (Joshua DeCarlo) 'It was nice having the view...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site 14, located near the water and restrooms, was praised for its size and proximity to amenities but noted as being prone to mosquito activity. Site 131 was described as peaceful and enjoyable.
Accessibility Features
Some visitors found it difficult to locate campsites due to unclear signage.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but one review noted difficulties managing dogs due to stickers in grassy areas.
Last updated August 10, 2025