Your Guide to Mustang Island State Park

If you have ever visited Port Aransas, Texas, then you have likely heard of Mustang Island State Park. It is one of the many things to do in Port Aransas that is family-friendly and celebrates the beautiful, serene nature of the area.

To provide more insight into how you could spend your day here, we have listed park information, amenities and ideas on how to fill your stay with fun. We even offer vacation rentals located just moments away from the state park so you can enjoy quick access. View our vacation rental inventory and book your stay today.

Hours & Fees

Due to the ranger station and efforts for natural preservation, Mustang Island State Park is not open 24/7. You can enter the park between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. There is a small fee to enter of $5 per adult. Kids under 12 years old get in for free.

Location & History

Mustang Island has a rich history. It got its name from wild mustangs that used to roam free. It is believed that the Spaniards brought the horses to the island during their travels.

The park was privately owned until it opened to the public in 1979. Since then, it has been an attraction that brings visitors to the area again and again. The serenity and peace along Mustang Island are unmatched, and one of the best ways to experience them is by spending a day at the state park.

The park spans almost 4,000 acres and offers five miles of beachfront to enjoy. Silt and clay make up the beaches that haven't been touched by people, making them the perfect texture for building sandcastles.

Address: 9394 State Highway 361, Corpus Christi, TX 78418

Amenities

You will never run out of things to do while visiting Mustang Island State Park. From your typical beach activities to new experiences, there is something for everyone. Sunbathe with your favorite book, dip your toes in the Gulf of Mexico or bring beach toys such as a football or Frisbee.

This stretch of shoreline is popular among anglers, so you may see fishing poles lined up along the beach. You could even bring your own and see what fish you can reel in.

We encourage guests to pack a picnic for lunch to fuel their family for an afternoon under the sun. The park offers pavilions with tables so you can enjoy a quick bite to eat in the shade. There are also portable restrooms available to guests.

Another characteristic that brings people to Mustang Island State Park is the free beach wheelchair rentals. Everyone in your travel party should be able to discover the joy that comes from a beach vacation. The beach wheelchairs have wheels that dig into the sand and cruise through it instead of getting stuck.

If you are traveling during the spring or fall, you will notice an increase of birds hanging around the park. The birds migrate this time of year. Walk or bike through the trail systems and keep an eye out for beautiful birds.

Paddling Trail

If you consider yourself an avid kayaker, cruise through the Paddling Trail. The trail consists of three different systems that follow the western shoreline of Mustang Island and Corpus Christi Bay. See the three trail systems below:

Shamrock Loop Trail

Ashum Trail

Pro Tip: Bring sunscreen and insect repellant so you can relax and enjoy the trail while staying protected.

As you can see, there are so many things to do in Mustang Island State Park. We hope you use this information to plan the ultimate day here. Book your stay on Mustang Island today!