If you're yearning for an outdoor adventure that combines stunning beaches, starry nights, and the beautiful Texas Gulf Coast — then a Matagorda Beach camping trip will be right up your alley!
Matagorda Beach Camping: Ultimate Guide & Tips
If you're yearning for an outdoor adventure that combines stunning beaches, starry nights, and the beautiful Texas Gulf Coast — then a Matagorda Beach camping trip will be right up your alley!
Keep reading to learn everything you need to know to make your camping trip at Matagorda Beach a success, including the best camping spots, essential tips, and FAQs.
Top Spots for Matagorda Beach Camping
Matagorda Bay Nature Park
Matagorda Bay Nature Park is perfect for campers who love to be immersed in nature but also desire access to modern amenities, like showers, restrooms, and kayak rentals.
Managed by the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA), Matagorda Nature Park contains two miles along the Gulf of Mexico, two miles on the Colorado River, and endless acres of marshes and dunes. In addition to its natural beauty, this park offers both primitive and developed campsites and a decently-sized parking lot at the beach entrance of the public beach access road.
- Key Features — 56 campsites (34 with full hookups), RV camping sites, restrooms, showers, paved parking lots, covered picnic tables, a walking pier, kayak and canoe rentals, a mini-golf area, and a convenience store within walking distance.
- Camping Fees—Camping at Matagorda Bay Nature Park costs $15 – $40 per night, depending on the site. It's a good idea to book in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Jetty Park
Jetty Park is a fantastic (and free!) destination for beach campers seeking a blend of natural beauty and convenience. This park consists of several Colorado River jetties (hence the name) where the Colorado River meets the Gulf of Mexico. These jetties create stunning views and provide easy access to both the beach and the river.
Though swimming is not permitted near the jetties or pier due to strong currents, campers can enjoy other recreational activities, like fishing and birdwatching.
- Key Features — Picnic areas, restrooms, outdoor showers, and a fishing pier.
- Camping Fees — None (up to 72 hours)
East Matagorda Peninsula
For a rugged, isolated camping experience, head south to East Matagorda Peninsula. This peninsula is a slender piece of land separating the Gulf of Mexico from Matagorda Bay and East Matagorda Bay. This area is accessible by four-wheel-drive vehicles and offers a more primitive camping experience. It's ideal for those who want to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature (and enjoy free camping!).
- Key Features — No facilities, just pure, unspoiled beach, soft sands, and blue skies.
- Camping Fees — None (up to 72 hours).
Three Mile Lake
If you love beautiful beaches (and don’t need many other amenities), Three Mile Lake is a phenomenal place to camp near the entrance of Matagorda Beach. Three Mile Lake is a scenic spot for camping with the bonus of both beach and lakeside views.
- Features — Limited facilities, but with beach and lakeside camping.
- Camping Fees — None (up to 72 hours).
Helpful Tips for Camping at Matagorda Beach
1. Acquire Beach Permits
If you’re planning to drive on Matagorda Beach, remember to purchase your beach vehicle permit for $10. This beach parking permit can be purchased from most local merchants, such as Stanley’s Market and Buddy’s Seafood & Bait. Drive carefully and use four-wheel drive to avoid getting stuck in the soft sand.
2. Pack for Beach Conditions
Bring sturdy, sand-resistant gear, including tents with good ventilation to handle the coastal breeze. Also, remember to pack sunscreen, loose-fitting clothing, hats, food, and plenty of water.
3. Respect Wildlife
Matagorda Beach is rich with local wildlife in Texas, including sea turtles and over 200+ bird species. Be respectful of their habitats, avoid disturbing nests, and clean up all trash.
4. Prepare for Unpredictable Weather
Double-check the forecast before planning a camping trip to Matagorda Beach, and be sure to pack accordingly. You can bring tarps and windbreakers to help if the weather turns windy or rainy.
5. Understand Local Rules
Familiarize yourself with the rules at your campsite — some spots have specific regulations regarding campfires, vehicle access, and wildlife protection. For example, campfires are only permitted in designated fire rings at Matagorda Bay Nature Park, while they are always allowed at Jetty Park, East Matagorda Peninsula, and Three Mile Lake unless there is a fire ban or restriction.
6. Bring Bug Protection
Mosquitoes and other insects are common at Matagorda Beach (especially near the water), so bring insect repellent and mosquito netting for protection.
Fun Activities to Enjoy While Camping on Matagorda Beach
- Fishing — Matagorda Beach is a fishing paradise. Whether you're offshore fishing with a local fishing charter or casting a line, you're bound to reel in something exciting!
- Kayaking and Boating — The gentle waters of Matagorda Bay and the Colorado River are perfect for kayaking and boating. You can bring your own gear or rent from local vendors.
- Birding — Matagorda is known for its diverse bird species, especially during migration seasons.
- Stargazing — With minimal light pollution, Matagorda Beach is a spectacular spot for stargazing.
- Hiking and Exploring — Take a leisurely hike along Matagorda Beach or trek up the nearby dunes.
Extend Your Camping Trip and Explore the Best of Matagorda County with Beachside
Want to prolong your weekend beach trip… for good?
When you purchase one of our build-ready homesites in Palacios, Texas, you’ll be able to call Matagorda County and the Texas Gulf Coast home. Book a tour with us at Beachside, and join our laid-back, coastal community!