Mustang Island State Park

Overview

If your perfect weekend includes crashing waves, beach camping, and the feel of salt air on your skin, Mustang Island State Park is calling your name. Just south of Port Aransas, this 5-mile stretch of pristine coastline is a paradise for surfers, shell seekers, and sun worshipers. Whether you’re pitching a tent on the sand or watching dolphins from the shore, this park is the ultimate Texas coast adventure.

Park Details

• Location: Port Aransas, TX
• County: Nueces County
• Website: tpwd.texas.gov/mustang-island
• Phone: (361) 749-5246
• Address: 9394 TX-361, Corpus Christi, TX 78418
• Entrance Fee: $5 (13+), children 12 and under free
• Hours: Daily
• Pets: Leashed pets welcome (not allowed in buildings)
• Plan ahead: Hours, fees, and access may change—call or check online before visiting.

What to See and Do

• Primitive beach camping with Gulf views
• Swimming, bodyboarding, and surfing in designated areas
• Paddling trails for kayakers and canoers
• Beachcombing and shell hunting along the coast
• Birdwatching opportunities year-round

Historical and Cultural Significance

Named for the wild mustangs that once roamed the barrier island, Mustang Island has a long and varied history—from Native American settlement to Spanish exploration to modern conservation. The park preserves an important stretch of Gulf shoreline and dune habitat critical to coastal wildlife and storm protection. It’s a vital piece of the Texas coast, both ecologically and historically.

Planning a Visit

• Best Seasons: Spring and fall for mild temperatures and lower winds
• Average Temps: Spring: 75–85°F, Summer: 85–95°F, Fall: 75–85°F, Winter: 55–65°F
• Reservations: Recommended for beach camping, especially weekends and holidays
• Accessibility: Beach wheelchairs available on request; paved parking and accessible restrooms
• Tips: Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and tent stakes rated for sand; there are no lifeguards

Nearby Points of Interest

• Port Aransas: A coastal town with dining, shops, and fishing charters just minutes away
• Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center: Free public boardwalk for birdwatchers and photographers
• Padre Island National Seashore: A vast, undeveloped stretch of beach ideal for primitive camping and turtle sightings

Conclusion

Mustang Island State Park offers a coastal experience that’s rustic, refreshing, and undeniably Texan. Whether you’re here to surf, paddle, or just enjoy the view, this park invites you to slow down and soak up the Gulf Coast vibe. Plan your escape to the sand—and let the waves wash your stress away.