Mustang Island State Park is located just south of Port Aransas, Texas, offering a rugged slice of Gulf Coast beauty. The campsites aren’t directly on the beach — they’re separated from the water by a stretch of sand dunes, with about a 400-yard walk to reach the shore. The campground itself is a large gravel lot with 48 sites that include electric and water hookups. There’s a big restroom facility at the end of the loop, but the showers didn’t have hot water during our visit.
There are no fire rings at the campsites, but campfires are allowed on the beach, which makes for a memorable evening if you're up for the short walk with your gear. For those looking for more flexibility, boondocking is allowed directly on the beach with a permit.
The beach itself is wide, flat, and seemingly endless — perfect for running, bike riding, or just enjoying the sea breeze. It’s dog-friendly, too, but you'll need to keep an eye out for vehicles, as cars and motorbikes are allowed to drive on the sand.
Dean on the KLX.
And the Specialized.
Trucks camping on the beach.
Ella loved the beach.
Fun at the beach.
Sunrise at the beach.
