River, stream, or creek camping near Matagorda with hiking

Sandy beaches, shorebirds, and sea fishing await at the mouth of the Colorado River.

97% (43 reviews)

United States
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Texas
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Matagorda

97% (43 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Matagorda

Top river, stream, or creek campgrounds near matagorda with hiking

96%

(52)

Camp Nadur at Sargent Beach

1 site · RV1 acre · Sargent, TX

*** NEW LOW RATES FOR REMAINDER OF 2024 *** Nestled between the Gulf of Mexico and the Intercoastal Waterway, Sargent Island, with its unique, water-front home sites, was created in the 1950s. A quiet community, we feel Sargent is an oasis away from the crowds and congestion of other beach-side communities. We love taking a break from our busy lives to listen to the waves roaring down the shore. We think you'll love it, too! Learn more about this land: This is a 8000 sq ft privately owned, ocean-side lot. Located on a barrier island in Sargent, TX, the site offers a neighborhood atmosphere, with a secluded, unobstructed beach view. There is an approximately 30x30 gravel pad and long driveway. This is a subdivision--there is a neighbor on our right side. This is an RV lot only. This property suits smaller to midsize RVs and most wheeled campers (but no ground tents--there is too much ground wildlife for safety, though elevated, vehicle-mounted tents are fine). The property is still in development. We currently have electricity (110v, 30, 50 amp), water, but NO SEWER OR SEPTIC. You must bring your own toilet facilities with you and take the waste away. NOTE: Public Toilet facilities and trash available 1.5 miles away. We do provide a picnic table, but it changes often--we lose them in storms, lol. You'll also have a clothes line and a canopy as wind/storms permit. If you're an introvert, dislike traffic or just like breathing room, you'll love quiet, crowd-free, Sargent beach. It's such a peaceful getaway! ISLAND LIFE NOTE: This is the Texas Gulf Coast--we have mosquitos, and it's the state bird for a reason! Please bring SPRAY. This gorgeous, island property is vulnerable to the extreme weather conditions on the Texas Gulf Coast. It's a dynamic property, shifting and changing, depending on the weather--we try our best to maintain this property in a timely manner, but we can't control this Mother Nature factor! There may be times we cannot put up the shade canopy due to high winds, other aspects of the property may have shifted, there may not be a beach due to high tides, etc. Please ask questions and we'll communicate what's available at your booking time. Our strict cancellation policy encourages good communication at time of booking. August 2024 update: The island just took a direct hit from Hurricane Beryl. You'll notice hurricane debris along the road--the county is still working on removal. Beaches are fairly clear as the storm pushed out debris, but there may be limited resources in the area. The Crab Trap (restaurant) is currently closed.

River, stream, or creek camping near Matagorda with hiking guide

Overview

The Colorado River meets the Gulf Coast at Matagorda, and these vast wetlands are made for exploring. Rivers and creeks flow down to the seashore, where beaches, coastal lagoons, and sand dunes stretch along the coast. Whether paddling the waterways by kayak, hitting the surf, or cruising the coast, getting on the water is a must. Sink your wheels into the sand for a drive along Matagorda Beach, where you can camp right on the beach, or check in to one of the many RV parks. Bring your binoculars and your fishing tackle—Matagorda is a paradise for fishing and bird-watching.

Where to go

Matagorda Bay

Fifty-eight miles of beaches stretch along the Matagorda peninsula, and campers can enjoy primitive camping along much of the seashore. Around 22 miles are accessible by vehicle, but you’ll need a boat to explore further afield. Fishing, kayaking, and surfing are the main activities along the beaches and tidal marshes, while bird-watchers will want to add the Mad Island Marsh Preserve and Matagorda Bay Nature Park to their itinerary.

Galveston Bay

East of Matagorda, coastal wetlands stretch along the coast to Galveston Bay. Nature walks and bird-watching opportunities abound in the San Bernard and Brazoria National Wildlife Refuges, while primitive camping is possible within the Justin Hurst Wildlife Management Area. Campers will find numerous options along Galveston Island, but for the best views, park your RV or pitch a tent by the beachside in the Galveston Island State Park.

South Houston

Urban campers have options around Houston, and camping to the south and West of the city is the best way to avoid the crowds. Riverside campgrounds dot the banks of the Brazos River, where you can camp on a working cattle ranch or choose from RV sites, group camps, and cabins in Stephen F. Austin State Park. There’s also RV camping with electric hookups as well as primitive camping in Brazos Bend State Park.

When to go

When the summer heat kicks in, the Gulf Coast is the best place to cool off from the Texan sun. Summers stretch from May through September, and this is peak season, so reserve campgrounds well in advance. The Gulf waters are often warm enough for swimming and water sports in spring and fall, while winter temperatures are still mild enough for camping along the coast. Birding opportunities are best during the spring and fall migrations.

Know before you go

You’ll need your own transportation to get to and around Matagorda—better yet, bring your boat. A 4x4 is recommended for beach driving, and a 15mph speed limit is in place along Matagorda beach.
There are shops in town where you can pick up groceries, camping supplies, and fishing bait and tackle. Bring everything you need with you if camping along the beach.
Tent and RV camping is permitted on the beaches in Matagorda. An annual beach vehicle permit is required for driving on Matagorda Beach, but there are no additional camping fees.