The State of Texas requires the following boat safety equipment: Personal watercraft (such as Jetskis, Seadoos, etc.) may not operate anywhere within the boundaries of Padre Island National Seashore.Īir boats and fishing boats which use air motors (flounder rigs) are prohibited in Padre Island National Seashore. Soft-sided (Zodiac style) boats of twelve feet or less in length may launch into the Gulf, but only if they launch south of the 5 mile marker (the four wheel drive sign). Hard-sided, motorized boats may not be launched into the Gulf of Mexico. For information on South Padre Island call 1-80.īoating : While boating at Padre Island National Seashore, the park asks that you observe the following laws and guidance to ensure the safety of all visitors (including yourself), to protect the park's natural resources, and to help everyone enjoy their time in the park.īoats may be launched at Bird Island Basin and at Yarborough Pass Boat Ramp. Please note: our park is on North Padre Island.

Privately-owned ATVs may not be used within the National Seashore. Only all-terrain vehicles owned and operated by the federal government may be used within the National Seashore. Except for major holiday weekends, camping space is normally available at Malaquite Campround.įireworks are not permitted in the National Seashore. Camping space is usually available at Bird Island Basin, but may be very limited during the height of the windsurfing season. Space for primitive camping on the Gulf beach is always available (except during infrequent beach closures). Please remember to clean up after your pet.Īll camping is first-come, first-served. Pets are permitted throughout the park, except on the visitor center deck. See the fees and permits section for more information.Īfter exploring the links on this page, click on the inDEPTH button for Frequently Asked Questions and info on Traveling Down Island, the island's history, and current issues.įor questions on Resource Management issues, such as oil and gas production or facilities within the park, plans to modify Bird Island Basin, or scientific studies conducted within the park, please contact our Resource Management Division at (361) 949-8173 extension 223. Weddings may be held on the beach, but require a special use permit. Please review this and the news pages for the latest information which may effect your visit.įor the most recent official park documents on drilling for natural gas within the park, plans for development of Bird Island Basin, and other issues, please follow the Management Docs link on the right. Padre Island National Seashore, encompassing 130,434 acres, is the longest remaining undeveloped stretch of barrier island in the world, and offers a wide variety of flora and fauna as well as recreation.

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