Bird Island Basin Campground

Star4.49
40 reviews
Padre Island National Seashore, P.O. Box 181300, Corpus Christi, TX, 78480, USA

Quick Facts

0

Price

$25/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

45 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Opens Padre Island National Seashore site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

February 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

February 2026
Bird Island Basin Campground
$25.00 - $25.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The park entrance requires a $25 fee for a 7-day pass, applicable for all visitors staying past midnight. Site-specific camping fees were not...
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Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider
(361) 949-8068pais_visitor_center@nps.gov
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What Campers Say

4.49

Recommended

Based on 40 reviews

15 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewslocation

"Bird Island Basin Campground is rated highly for its proximity to water-based activities but receives mixed feedback regarding signage and staff interaction. While some visitors appreciate the location, others express frustration over unclear camping regulations and lack of marked sites."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Padre Island National Seashore, P.O. Box 181300, Corpus Christi, TX, 78480, USA

Bird Island Basin Campground

Padre Island National Seashore, P.O. Box 181300, Corpus Christi, TX, 78480, USA

Driving directionsFrom the park entrance station, travel south on Park Road 22 for 0.8 miles (1.2 km). Turn right on Bird Island Basin Road. Travel 1.4 miles (2.2 km) to the campground. Bird Island Basin Campground is located 4.4 miles (7 km) northwest of the Malaquite Visitor Center.
Bird Island Basin Campground is accessible via paved roads leading to Park Road 22 and Bird Island Basin Road. The roads are generally in good condition and accessible year-round, but signage may be unclear as noted in user reviews.
Nearby places
Corpus Christi (approximately 30 miles, 40 minutes by car).
Nearby supplies
Basic supplies can be obtained at the Malaquite Visitor Center (4.4 miles southeast). For comprehensive grocery and camping supplies, visit Corpus Christi (approximately 30 miles away).

Best Time to Camp at Bird Island Basin Campground

Experience the gentle rhythm of coastal living where moderate temperatures create year-round camping comfort. The ever-present coastal breeze keeps things fresh, though winter months bring brisker winds that seasoned campers embrace with extra layers. While the dry humidity makes for comfortable days and nights, wise visitors stay weather-aware during storm season when coastal flooding can temporarily transform the landscape. This dynamic climate creates an ever-changing canvas that rewards flexible adventurers with spectacular conditions for water sports and wildlife watching throughout the seasons.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5
Top 23% in TX

Warm season is conducive to water activities though sun exposure is a factor.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Milder temperatures and continued water recreation make fall very appealing.

Spring(Mar-May)
4.0 / 5

Spring likely excellent for birding and paddling with pleasant weather and wildlife activity.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
3.0 / 5

Open year-round but reviews note winter winds and chill that can reduce comfort.

Planning Tips
  • Operating Season: The campground is open year-round, but weather conditions such as coastal floods and high winds may affect usability.

About Bird Island Basin Campground

Where the wind meets the water at Bird Island Basin Campground, adventure seekers find their paradise along the shimmering shores of Laguna Madre. This coastal haven offers 35 spacious RV/tent sites arranged side-by-side on stable gravel surfaces, plus 10 exclusive tent-only sites nestled on pristine sandy flats for those seeking a more intimate connection with nature. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, scanning the skies for rare coastal birds, or harnessing the legendary winds for windsurfing, this campground serves as your gateway to endless aquatic adventures. Convenient vault toilets anchor both the north and south ends of the campground, with vibrant day-use areas peppered throughout, creating perfect spots for picnics and sunset watching between your water-based escapades.
The campground accommodates RVs and tents, with additional tent-only sites available. All sites are basic and situated on gravel or sand.
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Amenities available

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Bird Island Basin Campground is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts interested in water-based activities such as windsurfing, kayaking, and fishing. Birding is also a notable attraction due to the campground's proximity to Laguna Madre.
FishingFishing is a prominent activity due to the campground's location along Laguna Madre. Specific details about the types of fish or fishing permits are not provided.
Wildlife viewingBirding is a key highlight at Bird Island Basin, with diverse avian species likely attracted by the nearby Laguna Madre.
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include coastal flooding, high winds, and unclear signage. User reviews have mentioned challenges such as windy conditions and cold temperatures.

Weather at Bird Island Basin Campground

Reviews

4.5
40 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Bird Island Basin Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Bird Island Basin Campground is rated highly for its proximity to water-based activities but receives mixed feedback regarding signage and staff interaction. While some visitors appreciate the location, others express frustration over unclear camping regulations and lack of marked sites.
Review Summaries
Based on 40 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive reviews emphasize the campground's scenic location along Laguna Madre and its suitability for activities like windsurfing, kayaking, and birding. Visitors in tents report being comfortable...
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Based on 40 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include poor signage, particularly regarding the tent-only sites, and occasional negative interactions with park staff. One reviewer mentioned encountering a rude park attendant.
Based on 40 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors recommend bringing shade, as the area lacks natural cover, and verifying camping locations at the visitor center due to unclear signage.
Based on 40 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Winter conditions may involve windy and chilly weather, as noted in one review. Warmer seasons appear conducive to outdoor activities but may require additional preparation for sun exposure.
Based on 40 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Bring your own shade!" - Henri Molle. "My dream job was to be a park ranger! She looked like she hates it!" - Shawn Balmos. "A nice break from the beach when the wind is high." - Henri Molle.
Based on 40 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

The tent-only sites are not clearly marked, leading to confusion for some visitors. The RV/tent sites are described as being 90% occupied with RVs during one visitor's stay.
Based on 40 reviews

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Last updated February 17, 2026
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