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Mustang Island State Park adventures

Mustang Island State Park Adventures

Mustang Island State Park offers over five miles of Gulf Coast beachfront along with diverse coastal habitats and recreational opportunities including camping, fishing, and birdwatching.

3,955
Acres Protected
4
Miles of Trails
450,000+
Annual Visitors
1979
Year Established

About Mustang Island State Park

Mustang Island State Park
 

Located on Mustang Island along the Texas Gulf Coast near Corpus Christi, Mustang Island State Park covers more than 3,800 acres of protected coastal ecosystem. The park stretches along 5 miles of sandy beaches, dunes, tidal flats, and marshes that provide essential habitat to an array of wildlife, particularly migratory birds and aquatic species. The park’s landscapes include maritime dunes vegetated with sea oats and coastal prairie, supporting species like the piping plover, Kemp’s ridley sea turtles, and coastal shorebirds. Established in 1979, Mustang Island State Park is a destination for beachcombing, swimming, fishing, paddling, and birdwatching. Visitors can camp beside the beach at developed campgrounds featuring both water and electric hookups, offering opportunities to enjoy Gulf sunrises and sunsets. The park also contains nature trails through grasslands and dunes, where visitors might spot small mammals and native reptiles. Positioned between the city of Corpus Christi and the Gulf, the park provides both natural tranquility and convenient access. Its proximity to Mustang Island’s other attractions, such as Port Aransas and Padre Island National Seashore, adds to its appeal. Visitors come for the peaceful shores, saltwater fishing, family-friendly facilities, and the ability to observe seasonal migratory birds and sea turtles. With ample access points and well-maintained amenities, Mustang Island State Park is a great introduction to Texas coastal ecosystems and an outdoor haven for both locals and tourists.

Highlights

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Five miles of sandy Gulf Coast beaches ideal for swimming and sunbathing

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Coastal dune ecosystem with native vegetation supporting shorebird nesting

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A popular spot for saltwater fishing along the surf and jetties

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Campgrounds located just steps from the beach for overnight nature immersion

Notable Natural Features

Mustang Island Beach

Expansive natural beach stretching along the Gulf of Mexico, offering swimming, sunbathing, and surfing opportunities.

Maritime Dune Habitat

Vegetated dune system providing critical nesting grounds for shorebirds and a refuge for native plants.

South Jetty

Structure popular for fishing and viewing Gulf currents where anglers can catch a variety of saltwater species.