While traveling Texas in my RV I came across what I believe is the best KOA in Texas. Read further to find out why.
The Best KOA in Texas: My Stay at the Gulf Coast KOA
After a week of boondocking at Magnolia Beach, Texas—where the views were stunning but the weather and amenities were less than ideal—I hit my limit. As a full-time solo female RVer, I’m used to roughing it a bit, but something about my time there had me feeling totally drained.
Between unpredictable winter storms, chilly wind off the water, and the constant effort it takes to find safe, free camping spots, I found myself needing more than just a tank of propane and some groceries—I needed a reset.
That’s how I stumbled on what I now consider the Best KOA in Texas.
>Also Read : Free RV Camping along the Texas Gulf Coast
When Free Camping Isn’t Free (Mentally)
Let’s back up a bit. I’d been parked at Magnolia Beach for about a week. If you’ve ever camped there, you know it’s a popular free boondocking spot right along the water. And while it has its perks—like ocean views and the relaxing sound of waves—it also comes with challenges, especially in the winter months. The wind was relentless. The gray skies didn’t help my mood. I couldn’t find decent WiFi to get work done. And constantly having to think about water, waste, weather, and safety started to chip away at my usual joy for this lifestyle.
After running some errands in Port Lavaca (groceries, the usual), I found myself sitting in the Walmart parking lot, debating what to do next. I wasn’t ready to head far, but I also couldn’t stomach another cold night on a windswept beach.
That’s when I pulled up the KOA website and found a location that changed everything.
Gulf Coast Getaway
About two hours southwest of Houston, nestled along the Gulf Coast of Texas, is a gem of a campground: KOA Holiday in Port Lavaca/Matagorda Bay.
The moment I pulled in, I knew I’d made the right decision. This wasn’t just a stopover—this was a place designed to help you breathe again. And after days of roughing it, breathing again is exactly what I needed.
My site was pristine. A cement slab surrounded by gravel and grassy areas, it was level, clean, and spacious. It felt luxurious after the sandy, uneven beach spot I’d just left. I hooked up to water, electric, and sewer with ease—and perhaps best of all, the WiFi worked great. I could stream, upload videos, and check in with friends without constantly hunting for signal.
Comfort, Convenience, and That First Slice of Pizza
It was off-season when I stayed, so things were calm and peaceful around the campground, but I could still see the potential for serious fun here when summer rolls around. Families would love it here: there’s a year-round pool, a splash pad that’s kind of famous in the KOA world, fishing on Matagordo Bay, and even a pickleball court. I might not be a kid, but I could easily picture myself spending sunny afternoons lounging poolside or joining a game.
That first night, I didn’t want to cook. Luckily, I didn’t have to. This KOA has a convenient on-site café, and I happily ordered a pizza. It hit the spot. Sitting at my RV dining table, warm pizza in hand, with working WiFi and no worries about weather or safety? Yeah, I was finally relaxing.
A Great Spot for Solo Female RVers
As someone who travels solo, safety is always on my radar. This KOA made me feel completely at ease. The staff was warm and welcoming, checking me in with smiles and making sure I had everything I needed. The grounds were well-lit, and the layout of the park made it easy to feel secure while still giving you enough privacy at your site.
Laundry was easy to access and clean, and I took full advantage. There’s something about having fresh clothes and clean sheets that can really shift your mood. Add that to a warm shower, reliable electricity, and space to breathe? I was officially resetting.
Staying at KOA : Why I Needed This Break
Sometimes we don’t realize how worn out we are until we stop. Life on the road has so many beautiful moments, but it also comes with constant planning and decision-making. Where to park, when to move, how to manage weather and resources—it’s a lot. And in Texas winter, where it’s hard to guess if the next day will be sunny and 75 or raining sideways, it can be especially draining.
This KOA gave me something I hadn’t had in weeks: rest. And that’s what makes it the best KOA in Texas in my book. It wasn’t just the amenities (which were great) or the beauty of the park (also great)—it was the peace of mind, the feeling of being taken care of, and the chance to exhale.
Final Thoughts: Worth Every Penny
Sure, I could have driven around and looked for another free spot. But I’m so glad I didn’t. This stay reminded me that sometimes paying a little for comfort, cleanliness, and security is more than worth it. Especially when you’re solo and living full-time on the road.
If you’re RVing through Texas and find yourself needing a breather—whether from weather, road fatigue, or just the grind of planning your next move—head to the KOA in Port Lavaca. Whether you’re staying a night or a week, this place has everything you need to feel human again.
And if you’re like me, you might even stick around longer than planned.
Resources for this Campground
- Official KOA site for Port Lavaca / Matagordo Bay KOA (I’m not an affiliate just happy to stay here)
- More about the City of Post Lavaca
- Watch my stay at this KOA by clicking this link or watch below
Thank You for Stopping By!
Hi, I’m Allie—solo traveler, hiker, and midlife reinventor. I share real stories from the road, whether I’m camping beachside in my RV or hiking mountain trails with a heart full of grit and curiosity.
This blog is where I explore what it means to rebuild and chase freedom in your 50s and beyond—because life doesn’t end at midlife, it begins. Let’s wander, grow, and figure it out together.
- Join my Midlife Friend Letters and Content Updates
- Midlife Inspiration : How I’m Reinventing Myself in My 50s
- Adventures with Allie on YouTube
- Read more of my Most Popular Posts
Note : As an Amazon associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Find this post helpful? Please share with your friends and on social media. THX!
