Galveston Island State Park
Discover Galveston Island State Park
Galveston Island State Park is a popular outdoor recreation area located on the west end of Galveston Island. The park spans over 2,000 acres and includes several miles of beachfront, as well as marshlands, dunes, and coastal prairies. In 2013 Travel Channel named Galveston Island State Park one of the “Best Gulf Coast Beaches.” Come and see for yourself why this stretch of sandy beach is among the top destinations on the Gulf Coast.
There is so much to do in Galveston Island State Park that your entire trip could be spent just relaxing and exploring the area. With all sorts of activities they offer something for everyone, the sand is just the tip of the dunes. You can stay on-site in one of their campsites in either your tent, pop-up trailer, or RV. Showers, restrooms, running water, and electrical hook-ups are available at the campsites, depending on which one you choose. Overnight camping on Galveston Island is a real treat.
Location Highlights
- State Hwy Park Rd, Galveston, TX 77554, USA
- 48 miles from Houston, TX
Amenities
- Public Restrooms Nearby
- Public Showers Available
- Pet Friendly
- Picnic and Grilling Areas
- Public Parking nearby
- Rv Parking Available
- Camping Available
Ratings
Activities
If you want to learn more about the plants and animals in and around the park you can attend a ranger program where they will teach you all about the island and how you can help preserve this beautiful island and its inhabitants. You and your kids can become Junior Rangers by borrowing an Explorer Pack, picking up a free Junior Ranger Journal, and heading off on an adventure to study about all the plant and animal wildlife. Grab your tackle and see what kind of fish you can catch! No license is needed to fish from the shore, so the bay, ponds, and surf are all available.
Kayaking
If you really want a close-up of the West Bay in Galveston then nothing beats a kayak. The have kayak rentals available by the hour or the day. The kayak rental comes with a kayak, lifejacket, paddles, and any necessary safety equipment. There are three specific kayak trails through the park, but you can always blaze your own kayak trail through the bay. Single kayaks, tandem kayaks, and fishing kayaks are all available for rent. Stand up Paddleboards, SUP, are also available at the same location.
Exploring the Park
If you really want a close-up of the West Bay in Galveston then nothing beats a kayak. They have kayak rentals available by the hour or the day. The kayak rental comes with a kayak, lifejacket, paddles, and any necessary safety equipment. There are three specific kayak trails through the park, but you can always blaze your own kayak trail through the bay. Single kayaks, tandem kayaks, and fishing kayaks are all available for rent. Stand up Paddleboards, SUP, are also available at the same location.
Pet Friendly
You and your pet are welcome at Galveston Island State Park. There’s no need to leave your four legged friend behind when you come to the beach. Please keep your pet on a leash at all times and respect those around you. Make sure you properly dispose of your pet’s waste to keep the beach clean and enjoyable for everyone.
Hours of operation
- Mon 7AM-10PM
- Tues 7AM-10PM
- Wed 7AM-10PM
- Thurs 7AM-10PM
- Fri 7AM-10PM
- Sat 7AM-10PM
- Sun 7AM-10PM
Campfires are permitted only in designated rings
Please do not gather firewood.
Federal and state laws prohibit collecting plants, animals, and artifacts
It is recommended to bring mosquito spray, particularly if you plan to stay after dark.
No lifeguards on duty. Please exercise caution while swimming.
Take care to watch out for snakes while exploring the area.
Be aware of the possibility of undercurrents and use appropriate safety measures while in the water.
Daily and Hourly Watercraft Rentals Canceled if winds are greater than 15 MPH or Temperatures fall below 55 degrees.
For Current Beach Conditions
Current Island Forecast

Current Weather
71.0°F/21°C
Foggy Weather

71.0°F/21°C
Foggy Weather

71.0°F/21°C
Foggy Weather

71.0°F/21°C
Foggy Weather