Free or low cost beach camping...?

If you've read beyond the arguments and discension,:R I can tell you of Port Aransas, Tx. For a $15 window sticker you can pull up along the beach road there and camp with your RV, but only for a limited time. You will have to check with the Chamber of Commerce there to get the rules for that it may change before you arrive, but be ready for the salt air, it coats everything so make sure you hit the local car wash after your stay. You will find lots of fishing charters that won't break the bank, one charges $50 to go all day in the Bay side of the Gulf Coast. Could be a lot of fun for you. There is also a jetty there that extends out into the Gulf about a mile. Good fishing and lotsa sea turtles and dolphins cruise the channel all day. Very worth the trip. And you will be able to arrive there via ferry that will take you and your RV/toad across the Inter Coastal Waterway (ICW)and you may spot dolphins on your five minute shuttle across the ICW. South of Mustang Island you will find PINS Padre Island National Seashore and if you have a four wheel drive you can run the beach for more than 50 miles. But don't get stuck, it will ruin your stay. Good luck and keep smilin'.