Galveston Island State Park

Sitting just an hours' drive outside of Houston, the Galveston Island State Park is a 2,013-acre pupperdise your canine bestie is going to love. Occupying part of Galveston Island, this state park has a rich history, with documented human occupation going back over 5,000 years.

Modern humans and their adventure pups will love exploring the beaches, prairies and wetlands of this barrier coast ecosystem. For water lovers, this furbulous park offers both a bay side and ocean side with tons of pawpportunities. Bring a canoe or kayak and try out the paddling trails on the bay side. You can choose a self-guided experience, or pay an extra fee and have a park staff member paddle out with you or your party. If you are looking to beachcomb or swim, note that dogs are not allowed at any designated swimming or bathing areas, so look for a spot off the beaten track for your pup to enjoy.

If you like the shoreline but aren't a huge swimmer, Galveston also offers fishing at both oceanside and bay area locations. Fishing licenses aren't required, as all shores offer free fishing in state parks by default. Dogs can accompany you on leash.

For those who prefer the land, there are four miles of trails that wind throughout the park and offer some great views of the island's varied habitats. In addition to photo blinds and several observation platforms, there are plenty of doggie bag stations in case you need to clean up after your canine during your walk. Always have clean-up bags on hand wherever you travel in the park. 

Though the overnight lodges are just for the humans, your dog is welcome to sleep under the stars with you at both on site campsites. These side by side sites on the bay side offer primitive tent camping and RV/trailer camping. 

While exploring this gorgeous island park, be sure to keep your dog on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times. Bring all the essentials for a puptastic day out, including water to share, and extra clean-up bags, and leave no waste behind. 

Experience the beauty of the Gulf of Mexico under the Texas sun and head to the Galveston Island State Park with your pup today!