Forum Discussion
Rice
Mar 08, 2014Explorer III
MSFSnTEXAS, I think your search came back empty because the campground (Malaquite) isn't reservable, as rv2go stated. It would be nice if they clarified that on the website, instead of just saying there were no matches.
To double check, I looked for any campsite on June 19 for one night, with a date flexible for four weeks, and it said there was nothing available, and I can guarantee you at that time of year you can drive up and you'll have the place almost to yourself.
Unfortunately for you, Rheevs, April is a pretty busy time. Fortunately, you'll be between spring break and Easter, and that will help. Not all spaces will hold a 36 footer, but some (maybe most) will. Since you can't reserve, you'll just have to take your chances.
If there isn't space at Malaquite, there's an option a little closer than Mustang Island State Park, at Padre Balli, which is run by Nueces County. I'll warn you that the photo on the website is at least 1,000 times better than real life--everything down there is just sort of sand and salt.
Padre Balli is $25/night with water and electricity, and I'll say that it can be kind of nice to use the a/c to dry things out from the wet wind that blows all day and night. Padre Balli is like Malaquite--located just over the dunes from the waves, but it also has a fishing pier (paid entry).
To double check, I looked for any campsite on June 19 for one night, with a date flexible for four weeks, and it said there was nothing available, and I can guarantee you at that time of year you can drive up and you'll have the place almost to yourself.
Unfortunately for you, Rheevs, April is a pretty busy time. Fortunately, you'll be between spring break and Easter, and that will help. Not all spaces will hold a 36 footer, but some (maybe most) will. Since you can't reserve, you'll just have to take your chances.
If there isn't space at Malaquite, there's an option a little closer than Mustang Island State Park, at Padre Balli, which is run by Nueces County. I'll warn you that the photo on the website is at least 1,000 times better than real life--everything down there is just sort of sand and salt.
Padre Balli is $25/night with water and electricity, and I'll say that it can be kind of nice to use the a/c to dry things out from the wet wind that blows all day and night. Padre Balli is like Malaquite--located just over the dunes from the waves, but it also has a fishing pier (paid entry).
About Campground 101
Recommendations, reviews, and the inside scoop from fellow travelers.14,719 PostsLatest Activity: Mar 04, 2025