Top 5 reasons why it’s a fun place to visit:
- Check out the largest outdoor sandcastle in the US (and take a class on sand-castle building)
- Visit the South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center
- Walk the Laguna Madre Nature Trail
- Visit and shop the South Padre Island Farmer’s Market
- Rent a stand-up paddleboard and do some SUP
List of top 10 RV Parks in the South Padre Island, TX area:
(Disclaimer: information is a compilation of researched info as published online and does not necessarily reflect the experience or opinion of the author)
The RV parks have been ranked and are listed from “Most Recommended” to “Least Recommended” based on reviews, feedback, amenities, and preference. Cost was not the primary ranking driver. Please note that weekend RV families with children might have different needs than full-time RV “snowbirds.”
1. Tropical Trails RV Resort
Image Source: www.tropicaltrailsrvresort.com
Phone: (956)-338-4040
Email: [email protected]
Hours: 9:00 AM-5:00 PM
Website: tropicaltrailsrvresort.com
Total RV sites: approx. 330
Hookups: full (30/50, water, sewer)
Pool/Hot tub: Yes
Showers: Yes
Pets Allowed: Yes
Wi-Fi: Yes
This large park has many resort amenities and an island décor and vibe that helps one just kick back and relax. The park is close to downtown Brownsville that has many restaurants and shops.
What makes this park unique?
This popular park is a more affordable and conveniently close RV park compared to its counterparts on the island. There are five different tiers of site choices, depending on site size and spacing. This park is only a few miles away from the island. Whether one stays for a few days of for the whole summer, there is plenty to do to stay busy at the park or exploring the island.
- Laundry
- Pickleball
- Fitness center
- Activity area
- Hiking and biking trail
- Shuffleboard
- None
2. Palmdale RV Resort
Image Source: www.palmdalervresort.com
Phone: (956)-399-8694
Hours: 8:00 AM-5:00 PM
Website: palmdalervresort.com
Total RV sites: 200
Hookups: full (30/50, water, sewer)
Pool/Hot tub: Yes
Showers: Yes
Pets Allowed: Yes
Wi-Fi: Yes
This park is level, laid out well, with spacious sites and shade trees. It is one of the best parks for birdwatching in the area.
What makes this park unique?
This park is a Winter Texan paradise, especially for retirees. There is so much to do, and the park is well-kept, clean, with friendly staff and plenty of activities to keep busy every day of the week.
- Laundry
- Rec room
- Billiard
- Happy hour on Friday
- Bingo
- Shuffleboard
- Dances
- Friendly neighbors/atmosphere
- Water and electric hookups are located at the back of the site (make sure you have extended cords/hoses)
3. Long Island Village
Image Source: www.longislandvillage.com
Phone: (956)-522-0956
Hours: 8:00 AM-5:00 PM
Website: longislandvillage.com
Total RV sites: unknown
Hookups: full (30/50 Amp, water. sewer)
Pool/Hot tub: Yes
Showers: Yes
Pets Allowed: Yes
Wi-Fi: depends on rental site
Right on the water, this property is in prime location to everything South Padre Island has to offer. The area is walkable and well-maintained.
What makes this park unique?
This is a regulated community of property owners who rent or sublet their condominiums and RV lots with hookups for an extended amount of time. The Village has countless amenities, and it is truly a luxury vacation spot, with sites on the water with dock access and much to do. It is for anyone who is ready for a comfortable island vacation!
- Island vibe
- Tennis courts
- Landscaping
- Dock/canal access
- A plethora of scheduled activities (bingo, quilting, yoga, woodcarving, boating/fishing)
- Tournaments
- Ballroom dancing classes
- Golf
- Tight access
- Strict HOA rules
4. Breeze Lake Campground
Image Source: www.valleyrvparks.com
Phone: (956)-831-4852
Email: [email protected]
Hours: 9:00 AM-5:00 PM
Website: valleyrvparks.com
Total RV sites: 179
Hookups: full (30/50, water, sewer)
Pool/Hot tub: Yes (heated)
Showers: Yes
Pets Allowed: Yes
Wi-Fi: Yes
This park strives to create a community where visitors are welcome. A short drive to the beach, this park is in Brownsville, but has access to everything on the island within minutes.
What makes this park unique?
This park has a small-town laid-back feel but has many things to offer so that one can stay as long as they want without lacking a thing or being bored. The location is close to everything on the island and the staff puts forth effort to make it a comfortable and friendly stay.
- Laundry
- Close to beach
- Bird watching
- Daily scheduled activities
- Cards
- Potluck dinners
- Shuffleboards
- Exercise classes
- Bowling
- Maintenance crew on premises
- Gated
- Weekly rates do not include electric use (must pay extra)
- Card processing fee 4% each time you pay with card
5. South Padre Island KOA
Image Source: koa.com
Phone: (956)-761-5665
Hours: 8:00 AM-5:00 PM
Website: skyparkrv.com
Total RV sites: approx. 200
Hookups: full (30/50, water, sewer)
Pool/Hot tub: Yes
Showers: Yes
Pets Allowed: Yes
Wi-Fi: Yes
Palm trees and sandy beaches: as a KOA Holiday, this park is designed for longer-term stays and provides all the fun accommodations to make for a memorable and relaxing visit.
What makes this park unique?
Whether one wants to sunbathe or go fishing, there is something fun to do for everyone in the family. There is a free shuttle to use for visitors so that one can explore the island. This KOA also has a free boat ramp for use and a sunset deck to enjoy a drink in the evening time. Max RV length: 98 ft.
- Laundry
- Fishing
- Picnic tables
- Firepit
- Walking trail
- Snack bar
- Propane
- Camp store
- Crowded
- Muddy
- Not gated
6. Adolph Thomae Jr County Park
Image Source: campcdn.com
Phone: (956)-748-2044
Email: [email protected]
Hours: 6:00 AM-8:00 PM
Website: naturerocksrgv.org
Total RV sites: 35
Hookups: full (30/50, water, sewer)
Pool/Hot tub: No
Showers: Yes
Pets Allowed: Yes
Wi-Fi: No
According to their Website, the Adolph Thomae Jr. County Park is named after longtime former County Commissioner Adolph Thomae, Jr. The Park is situated on the banks of the Arroyo Colorado and is located within the Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge. (Source: Adolph Thomae Jr. – Cameron County (cameroncountytx.gov))
What makes this park unique?
With full hookups, this park is a great alternative to regular RV parks in the area. As a county park, this park is in nature and supports local outdoor activities and flora/fauna appreciation and education.
- Fish cleaning station
- Nature observation deck
- Lighted fishing area
- Boat docks
- Difficult to book due to cost and limited sites
7. Park Center
Image Source: cdn.saffire.com
Phone: (956)-943-7340
Hours: 8:00 AM-5:30 PM
Website: portisabelparkcenter.com
Total RV sites: approx. 370
Hookups: full (30/50, water, sewer)
Pool/Hot tub: Yes
Showers: Yes
Pets Allowed: Yes
Wi-Fi: Yes
Located right on the water, this park is a great vacation getaway with island vibes and a relaxing atmosphere.
What makes this park unique?
This park prides itself with security and location. There is much to do on land and water for visitors. Since the park is gated, one must let the office know if arriving during lunch hour or after 3 PM.
- Heated Pool & Hot Tub
- 3 Secure Entrance Gates
- Rec Hall
- Covered Patio
- Organized Activities During Winter Season
- Pool Tables
- Workout Room
- Mailbox Rental and General Mail Services
- Basketball/Pickleball Court
- Boat & Kayak Ramps
- Boat Dock Rentals
- Lighted Fishing Pier
- Wi-Fi available in Rec Hall & Pool Area
- Laundromat
- Dog Park
- Restroom & Showers
- Car Rinse & Boat Flush
- Dump Station
- Paved Streets
- Security Lighting
- On-Site Park Manager
- none
8. Isla Blanca Park
Image Source: i.pinimg.com
Phone: (956)-761-5493
Hours: 8:00 AM-5:00 PM
Website: cameroncountytx.gov
Total RV sites: over 600
Hookups: dry camping to full (30/50, water, sewer)
Pool/Hot tub: Yes
Showers: Yes
Pets Allowed: Yes
Wi-Fi: Yes
A big RV park right on the coast, the Isla Blanca Park is a great spot when staying in the area. It is affordable with choices from dry camping to full hookups.
What makes this park unique?
Called by many visitors the nicest park on the island, this park does not take the details that make a difference between “good” and “great” for granted. This park is located right on the beach, which allows the visitors to take advantage of the beach relaxation and water activities right where they are.
- Right on the beach
- Full-service marina
- Restaurants on site
- Snorkeling
- Diving
- Jet-skiing
- Parasailing
- Cabanas
- Surf fishing
- None
9. Andy Bowie County Park
Image Source: rvpr_prod.s3.amazonaws.com
Phone: (956)-761-3704
Email: [email protected]
Hours: 8:00 AM- 5:00 PM
Website: cameroncountytx.gov
Total RV sites: unknown
Hookups: none or full (30/50, water, sewer)
Pool/Hot tub: No
Showers: Yes
Pets Allowed: Yes
Wi-Fi: No
Andy Bowie Park is located on the north end of South Padre Island, on the Gulf of Mexico, directly across from the South Padre Island Convention Center. It is right next to a sea turtle hatchery.
What makes this park unique?
This park is beautiful and peaceful, as well as very well-kept. Many visitors continue to return regularly due to their positive experience at this County Park.
- Central location
- BBQ
- Beach access
- None
10. Winterhaven RV Resort
Image Source: www.winterhavenresort.com
Phone: (956)-831-7755
Hours: 8:00 AM-4:00 PM
Website: winterhavenresort.com
Total RV sites: 400
Hookups: full (30/50, water, sewer)
Pool/Hot tub: Yes
Showers: Yes
Pets Allowed: Yes
Wi-Fi: Yes
This park has canal RV sites on the water, as well as mobile home rentals. As a community, it is being very well maintained.
What makes this park unique?
This Resort has an HOA/owner-rented-sites place for 55+ community and with this, it has its own rules and regulations, as well as a cumbersome reservation process. It is a well-maintained park with nice level sites and a terrific location in the area.
- Clean
- Excellent location
- Laundry
- Activities
- Birdwatching
- 55+ community
- Reservations often do not match the assigned site (size-wise, this is an issue)
- Tight spots
TIPS TO GET TO SOUTH PADRE ISLAND
South Padre Island is on the Gulf Coast, the Southwest lowest point in Texas, just be fore the border to Mexico. When coming from the North, one can take US Highways 77 and 281 South, and 83 from the West. Then one turns East on State Highway 100. The island is approximately 300 miles from San Antonio, 340 miles from Austin, 370 from Houston, 560 miles from Dallas and 890 miles from El Paso. South Padre Island has a well-developed public transportation system, which means that one can park the RV and explore the island without having to worry about transportation or parking.
