Bird Island Basin Campground

About

Bird Island Basin Campground occupies a prime spot along Laguna Madre, the hypersaline lagoon separating Padre Island from the Texas mainland. The campground caters to water sports enthusiasts, birders, and anglers seeking calmer waters than the Gulf-facing beaches. The 35 RV/tent sites are arranged side by side on gravel pads, each with a picnic table and concrete parking stop. An additional 10 tent-only sites are located on a walk-up sand flat at the north end of the campground. Facilities are primitive but functional. Vault toilets are positioned at both the north and south ends of the campground, with a day-use area and trash dumpsters between them. There is no potable water, no showers, and no hookups of any kind. The nearest dump station and water fill station are located at Malaquite Campground, about 4 miles away. Propane and gas grills are permitted, but wood fires are prohibited and there are no fire rings. The campground operates year-round on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservations accepted. Campers self-register at a kiosk near the entrance. Sites accommodate RVs up to 45 feet, though the lack of hookups limits extended stays for those dependent on shore power. Cellular service is limited throughout the area.

Directions

From the park entrance station, travel south on Park Road 22 for 0.8 miles. Turn right on Bird Island Basin Road. Travel 1.4 miles to the campground. Located 4.4 miles northwest of the Malaquite Visitor Center.