Camping season is fully underway, and it can get pretty pricey sometimes depending on where you’re staying. It’s always nice to save some money whenever possible, so here are seven awesome places to go camping in Texas that are completely free and allow no reservations camping. Some are right by the beach while others reside more inland, but they all have one thing in common: enough space to accommodate whoever shows up. This means no stressing or planning ahead. If you happen to be in the area come nighttime, feel free to stop by knowing there’s room for one more. Is there anything better than camping without reservations?

1. Brazos Island State Park (Cameron)
Brazos Island Park, Brownsville, TX 78521, USA
Flickr/Vince Smith
You'll need to plan ahead because there are no dump stations and the nearest grocery store is 25 miles away, but Brazos Island State Park definitely worth the extra hassle. You'll likely be the only family camping on the beach, so you can enjoy the peace and quiet and come back feeling completely rejuvenated.
2. Fritch Fortress Campground (Fritch)
Fritch Fortress Highway, Fritch Fortress Hwy, Fritch, TX 79036, USA
nps.gov
It's hard to believe this place is among our state's free campgrounds - it has a beautiful view, trash service, dump stations, fresh water, clean bathrooms with showers, Verizon and ATT service, and it's only 20 minutes from a national monument.
3. Bolivar Flats Free Beach (Bolivar)
Rettilon Road, Rettilon Rd, Port Bolivar, TX 77650, USA
Flickr/bgv23
You have to get a $10 permit to park on the beach, but other than that it's free. This part of Bolivar can be accessed by taking Highway 87 to Retillion Road, and you'll need to bring plenty of water with you. Enjoy your beachfront freedom!

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4. Camp Creek Recreation Area (Marble Falls)
1221 Co Rd 343, Marble Falls, TX 78654, USA
TripAdvisor/management
Camp Creek is a beautiful park with picnic tables, grills, fire pits, vault toilets, garbages, and 4G telephone service. There's even a boat ramp, and locals say the fishing is great! Pecan trees abound for the picking and every morning, deer are frolicking around all over the place.
5. Spring Creek Park (Tomball)
Spring Creek Park, 15012 Brown Rd, Tomball, TX 77377, USA
Flickr/Trek Texas
There are tons of activities at this park to keep you busy during the day from a swimming pool and basketball and tennis courts to plenty of walking trails. Showers and restrooms are across the street and it's about a two mile drive to restaurants and grocery stores in Tomball. Address: 15012 Brown Road, Tomball, TX 77377.
6. Magnolia Beach (Port Lavaca)
Facebook/Magnolia Beach Life
There are two areas to camp here: one near the water and another closer to the restrooms/showers and a covered pavilion. You'll have much more room to spread out and enjoy the open air if you choose the former. Address: North Ocean Drive, Port Lavaca, TX 77979.
7. Indianola County Historic Park (Indianola)
Facebook/IndianolaTexas
There may not be much left of this little town, but the park is one you don't want to pass up. You'll get a breathtaking view of the water and escape from all your troubles with the sound of the gently crashing waves lulling you to sleep. Address: South Ocean Drive, Port Lavaca, TX 77979.

Camping in Texas doesn’t have to break the bank. Have you stayed at any of these places? Are there any spots for last minute camping in Texas? Let us know your favorites! For more summer fun in the sun, check out our previous list of items to ass to your Texas summer bucket list.

 

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Camping In Texas

Megan McDonald | April 07, 2023

What are some of the best campgrounds in Texas?

  • Some of the best campgrounds in Texas can be found in our state and national parks. These campgrounds are typically the most well-kept and feature more amenities than their less-traveled counterparts. If you're looking for electricity hookups, running water, and bathroom facilities, definitely consider camping at a more popular spot.

Are you allowed to camp in state parks?

  • Yes, camping in most state parks is allowed and encouraged! Before planning a trip, simply head to the park's page on the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website and double-check to make sure you can camp there.

What are some of the things I need to take on a camping trip?

Of course, you'll need all the basics such as:

  • Your tent or RV
  • A first aid kit
  • Water
  • Sleeping bag
  • Air mattress
  • Cooler
  • Here in Texas, a strong insect repellent and sunscreen are obligatory as well, during the warmer months.

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