Mustang Island State Park near Corpus Christi

Are you looking for an out-of-the-way place to enjoy the beach? If so, you’ll want to visit Mustang Island State Park. As one of Mustang Island’s best-kept secrets, the park makes for an exciting getaway where you can relax and get in tune with nature. Here are a few things you might want to consider when planning a trip.

About Mustang Island State Park

Mustang Island sits along the Gulf of Mexico just off the coast of Corpus Christi. It got its name from the wild Mustang horses, which used to inhabit this island. Although wild horses have not roamed this island for more than a century, their legend nonetheless remains.

Mustang Island State Park comprises nearly 4,000 acres of this island. Port Aransas, the island’s largest city, is situated just north of the park, and offers attractions of its own such as bay charters and parasailing.

The park sustained significant damage during Hurricane Harvey in 2017. However, it has since been restored and is now fully operational again. Even so, there may be periods when certain sections of the park are closed for maintenance. As such, you should always check with park officials before planning your trip.

Things to Do in Mustang Beach State Park

Visitors to this park are often drawn here for its quiet seclusion. Within the park’s boundaries are more than five miles of white sand coastline and undeveloped beaches. Here you’ll find an abundance (and nice selection) of seashells, making it the ideal spot for beachcombing. However, if you just want to swim, sunbathe, or fly a kite, you’ll have plenty of space to do it in as well.

Certain sections of beach are open to vehicle traffic. So if you would rather enjoy a scenic drive (or the weather isn’t ideal for walking on the beach), then you may want to visit by automobile instead.

The unspoiled area within the park makes it the ideal habitat for numerous species of birds and wildlife. You may notice sand crabs, pelicans, plovers, and sandpipers while walking on the beach. Elsewhere in the park, you’re likely to encounter white-tailed deer, raccoons, gopher, or even the occasional sea turtle.

Other activities you may enjoy at Mustang Island State Park include:

• Photography
• Geocaching
• Picnicking

Mustang Island Paddling Trail

Mustang Island’s Paddling Trail consists of three “legs”. Each one passes through Corpus Christi Bay along the island’s western shoreline. Several outfitters in the area rent canoes and kayaks, or you are always welcome to bring your own.

The Shamrock Loop Trail is 5.24 miles long and passes through Shamrock Cove before connecting with the North Trail. At 8.5 miles long, the North Trail extends from Mustang Island State Park to Port Aransas’s marina. The Ashum Trail extends along 6.8 miles of Corpus Christ Bay’s shoreline, and provides the best opportunity for bird watching among the three trails.

While along the paddling trail, plan on doing some fishing. All of the trails will pass through areas that are perfect for casting a line or two. Who knows, you might just catch some whiting, speckled trout, or redfish.

Primitive Camping near the Beach

For many guests, the idea of waking up with the sound of waves crashing against the shore seems like paradise. If this is something you crave, then you’ll want to take in the primitive beach camping offered along 1.5 miles of coastline. These sites are available on a first-come, first-serve basis, and are within walking distance of restrooms and rinsing showers.

Electric Campsites

If you are looking for a few more amenities, perhaps one of the campsites with electricity would be ideal. Located just 400 yards from the beach, these well-shaded spots offer water hookups, picnic tables, and an outdoor grill. They are also very close to the park’s restroom and shower facilities. An electric campsite is ideal if you have a small RV or camper, or are looking for a more luxurious experience than what a primitive site would provide.

Unspoiled Beauty and Natural Attractions

Mustang Island State Park offers plenty of family-friendly activities and beautiful, peaceful surroundings. It’s a stop you’ll definitely want to include on any trip that involves a visit to Corpus Christi or any other nearby area. Also stop by our Corpus Christi location for any home and car insurance needs you might have. Balsiger Insurance: Corpus Christi, 5402 Holly Rd #2104, Corpus Christi, TX 78411 (361) 400-2973