🌤 Weather at Mustang Island State Park by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 57–83 °F | 77–90 °F | 60–88 °F | 49–66 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Port Aransas 11 SSW, 2 mi away, elevation 6 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
Stretching along the Gulf of Mexico on one of Texas’s most beautiful barrier islands, Mustang Island State Park offers nearly 4,000 acres of unspoiled coastal paradise. Five miles of sandy beach, world-class fishing, a 20-mile paddling trail through coastal wetlands, and the rare opportunity to camp directly on the beach make this one of the Lone Star State’s most beloved parks.
Located on Mustang Island between Corpus Christi and Port Aransas, the park protects diverse coastal ecosystems: from Gulf beach to sand dunes to bay-side wetlands. These habitats support an extraordinary array of wildlife, including the endangered Kemp’s ridley sea turtle—the world’s most endangered sea turtle species, which nests on these very shores.
Whether you come to surf cast for redfish at dawn, paddle through quiet coastal marshes, watch dolphins play in the surf, or simply fall asleep in a tent with the sound of waves crashing nearby, Mustang Island delivers the quintessential Texas beach experience—without the crowds of Galveston or South Padre.
Park Fast Facts
Mustang Island State Park is located on the barrier island of the same name, accessible via TX-361 from Corpus Christi or by ferry from Port Aransas.
| 📍 Location | 17047 TX-361, Corpus Christi, TX 78418 |
| 🗺️ Region | Coastal Bend / Gulf Coast |
| 📐 Total Area | ~3,954 acres |
| 🏖️ Beach Length | 5 miles |
| 🛶 Paddling Trail | 20 miles |
| ⏰ Hours | Open 24 hours for camping |
| 📞 Phone | (361) 749-5246 |
Admission & Fees
| Fee Type | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 🎫 Day Use (13+) | $5 | Per person |
| 🎫 Children (12 & under) | FREE | |
| ⛺ Beach Camping | $15/night | Primitive; no hookups |
| 🔌 W/E Campsites | $20-25/night | Water/electric hookups |
The Texas State Parks Pass ($70/year) provides free entry for the passholder plus all vehicle occupants to all Texas state parks.
The Beach
Mustang Island’s 5 miles of Gulf beach is the park’s crown jewel. Unlike many Texas beaches, vehicles are not permitted on the park beach, keeping it pristine and peaceful.
| Beach Info | Details |
|---|---|
| 🏖️ Length | 5 miles |
| 🚗 Vehicles | NOT allowed on park beach |
| 🏊 Swimming | Permitted; no lifeguards |
| 🐚 Shelling | Good after storms; whelks, sand dollars |
| 🏄 Surfing | Allowed; best with south swells |
Fishing
Mustang Island is a world-class fishing destination. The Gulf waters and back bay flats offer year-round opportunities for anglers of all skill levels.
| Fishing Type | Species | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 🎣 Surf Fishing | Redfish, black drum, whiting, pompano | Dawn/dusk best; no pier needed |
| 🎣 Wade Fishing | Speckled trout, redfish | Back bay flats; shallow water |
| 🚣 Kayak Fishing | Redfish, flounder, trout | Access back bays; launch at ramps |
| 🌙 Night Fishing | Shark, rays, drum | Popular in summer |
A Texas fishing license with saltwater endorsement is required. Current regulations at tpwd.texas.gov.
Mustang Island Paddling Trail
The Mustang Island Paddling Trail spans 20 miles through coastal wetlands, tidal flats, and sheltered bays on the island’s back side. It’s one of Texas’s premier kayaking destinations.
| Paddling Info | Details |
|---|---|
| 🛶 Trail Length | 20 miles |
| 🚀 Launch Sites | Multiple access points along trail |
| 🐦 Wildlife | Herons, roseate spoonbills, dolphins |
| 🎣 Fishing | Excellent kayak fishing on back bays |
| ⚠️ Conditions | Check wind/tide; afternoon winds common |
Camping
Mustang Island offers some of the best beach camping in Texas. Fall asleep to the sound of waves just steps from your tent.
| Camping Type | Sites | Price | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🏖️ Beach Primitive | Many | $15/night | Beachfront; no hookups; vault toilets |
| 🔌 Water/Electric Sites | 48 | $20-25/night | W/E hookups; near restrooms |
| 🚐 RV-Friendly | Included above | $20-25/night | 30/50 amp available |
Reserve at texasstateparks.org. Summer and holiday weekends book quickly—reserve early!
Wildlife
Mustang Island’s diverse habitats support an remarkable array of coastal wildlife, including one of the world’s rarest sea turtles.
| Wildlife | When/Where |
|---|---|
| 🐢 Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtle | Nesting Apr-Jul; world’s most endangered sea turtle |
| 🐬 Bottlenose Dolphins | Year-round in surf and bays |
| 🦅 Shorebirds | Migration peaks spring/fall; sandpipers, plovers |
| 🦩 Roseate Spoonbills | Back bay wetlands; spring-summer |
| 🦀 Ghost Crabs | Beach at night; burrow in dunes |
Sea Turtle Alert: If you see a nesting sea turtle or hatchlings, do not disturb! Report sightings to 1-866-TURTLE-5.
Best Times to Visit
| Season | Experience | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| 🌸 Spring (Mar-May) | Bird migration; turtle nesting begins; mild temps | Spring break crowds in March |
| ☀️ Summer (Jun-Aug) | Beach season; warm water; turtle nesting | HOT (90°F+); jellyfish possible; book early |
| 🍂 Fall (Sep-Nov) | Best fishing; fall migration; fewer crowds | Hurricane season through Nov; warm water into Oct |
| ❄️ Winter (Dec-Feb) | Milder than north; birding; solitude | Cool (50-60°F); fronts bring wind |
Nearby Attractions
| Attraction | Distance | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| 🚢 Port Aransas | ~10 mi | Beach town; fishing charters; restaurants |
| 🐬 Texas State Aquarium | ~20 mi | Dolphins, sea turtles, sharks |
| ⚓ USS Lexington | ~20 mi | WWII aircraft carrier museum |
| 🏝️ Padre Island National Seashore | Adjacent | 70+ miles of wild beach; sea turtle research |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you camp on the beach at Mustang Island?
Yes! Mustang Island offers primitive beach camping for $15/night. You can pitch your tent on the beach and fall asleep to the sound of waves. There are no hookups, but vault toilets are available. It’s one of the best beach camping experiences in Texas.
Are vehicles allowed on the beach?
No—unlike many Texas beaches, vehicles are not permitted on the beach within the state park. This keeps the beach pristine and pedestrian-friendly. Vehicles are allowed on the adjacent Padre Island National Seashore beaches.
What fish can you catch at Mustang Island?
The waters around Mustang Island are excellent for redfish, speckled trout, black drum, whiting, pompano, and flounder. Surf fishing, wade fishing on the back bay flats, and kayak fishing are all popular. A Texas fishing license with saltwater endorsement is required.
Can you see sea turtles at Mustang Island?
The endangered Kemp’s ridley sea turtle nests on Mustang Island beaches from April through July. While sightings are not guaranteed, early morning beachgoers may see fresh tracks or nesting turtles. Do not disturb nesting turtles! Report sightings to 1-866-TURTLE-5.
How long is the paddling trail?
The Mustang Island Paddling Trail is 20 miles long, winding through coastal wetlands and back bays on the island’s west side. Multiple access points allow for shorter trips. It’s excellent for wildlife viewing—watch for herons, roseate spoonbills, and dolphins.
Is Mustang Island the same as Padre Island?
No—they are separate barrier islands. Mustang Island State Park is on Mustang Island. Padre Island National Seashore, managed by the National Park Service, is adjacent to the south and offers 70+ miles of even more remote beach. Both are excellent, but the National Seashore is more primitive.
Keep exploring: The closest neighbors are Port Aransas Nature Preserve (a short drive away) and Goose Island State Park (within about an hour’s drive).
🏝️ Texas Gulf Coast at Its Best
Mustang Island State Park offers the quintessential Texas beach experience: 5 miles of pristine Gulf shoreline, world-class fishing, a 20-mile paddling trail, and the rare chance to camp directly on the beach under a canopy of stars. Add endangered sea turtle nesting and year-round dolphins, and you have one of the most complete coastal parks on the Gulf Coast.
📍 Address: 17047 TX-361, Corpus Christi, TX 78418
🌐 Official Website: Texas Parks – Mustang Island
📞 Park Office: (361) 749-5246
🏕️ Reservations: texasstateparks.org
Explore More Texas State Parks
Mustang Island State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Texas. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Texas guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
⛺ Camping at Mustang Island State Park: Campgrounds & Cabins
| Pets | Pets allowed at campsites but not in buildings; contact park for specifics |
|---|---|
| Reservations | texasstateparks.reserveamerica.com or 512-389-8900 |
| Season notes | Primitive beach sites are non-reservable and may close due to weather conditions |
Campsite types
| Site type | Sites | Hookups | Nightly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Campsites with Electricity showers | 48 | 50-amp, water | $25 |
| Primitive Campsites (Drive-up) | 50 | — | $13 |
Blank cells mean the park does not publish that detail. Nightly rates are before the daily entrance fee.
Camping questions about Mustang Island State Park
Can you camp at Mustang Island State Park?
Yes. Mustang Island State Park has 98 campsites. 48 sites with 50-amp electric + water; 50 primitive drive-up beach sites (non-reservable); max 8 people/site; RV length limit not stated.
How do you reserve a campsite at Mustang Island State Park?
texasstateparks.reserveamerica.com or 512-389-8900.
Are pets allowed at the Mustang Island State Park campground?
Pets allowed at campsites but not in buildings; contact park for specifics.
Source: tpwd.texas.gov (verified July 2026). Details change seasonally — confirm when booking.
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Mustang Island State Park
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Pets are welcome at almost all Texas State Parks on trails and in campgrounds, but must be on leash, in a car, or in a crate at all times and may not be left unattended.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- 6 ft maximum leash required at all times
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Pets are not allowed in the water or on land around designated swim areas
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Pets are not permitted in any state park buildings, including motels, cabins, screened shelters and group facilities
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Several parks restrict dogs in specific areas (Big Bend Ranch, Enchanted Rock, Government Canyon, Hueco Tanks); proof of current rabies vaccination required
Are dogs allowed at Mustang Island State Park?
Pets are welcome at almost all Texas State Parks on trails and in campgrounds, but must be on leash, in a car, or in a crate at all times and may not be left unattended. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via tpwd.texas.gov. More: Texas state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
Plan your gear for Mustang Island State Park
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
