Secure the proper permit for camping on the beach. Camping is allowed anywhere along Crystal Beach and the Bolivar Peninsula's 27 miles of coastline. In order to park a car, you'll need to purchase a Bolivar Beach Parking Sticker for $10. These are available from the Texas Parks Department, local stores and real estate agencies.
Select a camping spot. You can drive along the beach and choose a spot to set up camp. The road is close to the beach, making it easy to scout a location. The west end of the peninsula, known as "the flats," has a wide beach and is devoid of houses. It is reached by taking Highway 87 to Rettilon Road (approximately 3.7 miles from the ferry landing). Beaches on the east end are narrower but still provide plenty of room to set up a tent or park a trailer.
Set up camp. If you've brought a tent, find a location well beyond the high tide mark to pitch the tent. The same goes for vehicles and trailers parked on the beach. Campfires are allowed, and you're welcome to build one to stay warm or to cook a meal.
