Galveston, Texas

Galveston Island State Park:  www.tpwd.state.tx.us/state-parks/galveston-island

Overview:  We enjoyed our stay in this beachside and bayside state park on Galveston Island.  We stayed in a beachfront site and had an amazing view of the ocean and dunes.  It is about a 10-15 minute drive to downtown Galveston and thus feels like you are in the ‘real’ (non-commercialized) Galveston Island.  But a short drive and you are at lovely downtown restaurants and shopping.  The beach was a short jaunt away and so peaceful.  The park has great walking/biking trails through the marsh and bay. It is a great bird viewing area!  They also have amazing paddling trails.

Campsites: Level, paved sites with water and electric (30/50A).  Dumping stations are available on both sides of the campground.  Bathroom/shower facilities are available. Good spacing and most sites have a shade shelter. Picnic tables, lantern post, and fire pit at each site.  Beachside sites are parallel whereas bayside sites are in a circle and closer spaced.

Amenities: Hiking trails, bicycle trails, paddling trails, nature center, camp store, public bathhouses, dump stations, fresh and saltwater fishing, beach access

Pet friendly: Yes.  Pets must be kept on a leash, but are allowed on the beach and trails.

Internet:  No Wi-Fi available.  However we had good Verizon and Sprint connections.  T-Mobile was ok.

Price:  $20-25 per night, weekly/monthly discount available.  Entrance fee of $5 per person per day required in addition to camp fee.  This fee is waived if you are Texas State Parks Pass holder ($70-95 per year).

Rating:  4.5/5