After spending two weeks at Padre Island National Seashore, it was time to move on. We knew another cold windstorm was heading for us, and after beach camping for so long, we decided to visit Goose Island State Park in Rockport, Texas.
We had heard and read that the park had two separate areas for camping - one along the beach called the Bay Front Area, with views of both the Aransa Bay and Lake Charles Bay. And the other, the Wooded Area, which has campsites nestled within the many oak trees found in the park. We opted for the wooded section hoping the trees would help block some of the expected 30 mph winds.
Our campsite, no. 107, was perfect for us. It was right across the road from the bathrooms, which had wonderful hot showers, but still nestled in the trees to give us our desired shelter from the winds. Each campsite has electric and water hook-ups, and for motorhomes and other self-contained rigs, there are two dump stations available - one in the Wooded Area and the other near the picnic area on the way to the Bay Front Area.
The park offers hiking trails and bird watching areas that are easily accessible and well maintained. Besides the many different birds we witnessed, we also saw some deer and heard plenty of coyotes. On one of the warmer days, we went for a nice long walk through the park and took in everything the park has to offer. They have a very nice day-use area for people looking to spend the day outdoors. They also have a community building with indoor seating and a large smoker that is built into the bricks outside.
The park also has a small but nice boat launch ramp for those looking to get out on the Aransa Bay waters. The Bay Front Area campsites seemed nice but do not offer any shelter from the winds and has very limited shade.
Goose Island is in Rockport, Texas, which offers plenty of spots for fueling up your vehicle, restaurants and grocery shopping. While in Rockport, we stopped for a Cuban sandwich at this little place right on the edge of town called El Bodegon Cubano. The sandwiches were incredible! It is run by just a single employee, so please be patient since they make everything fresh while you wait. It is so worth the wait!