MATAGORDA COUNTY , TEXAS, USA -- Matagorda County,Texas offers campers and RVers lots of options, often mere steps away from the shoreline.

The mild climate, abundant bird and wildlife and world class fishing is making is making it a favorite of savvy snowbirds looking to escape the winter cold without breaking their budget.

While Matagorda County has yet to be discovered by the masses (this article was written in 2006), it's evident that development and growth imminent. Check out the undiscovered gem before it gets too crowded.

Here are good places to check out when traveling through (or to) this area in your recreational vehicle.

Seabird RV Park - Matagorda's largest RV park features 30/50 amp connections, water, sewer and garbage. They offer twenty one 48 foot spaces, many of them pull-throughs. Call 979-863-2592 or click to www.matagordabay.com/lodging.

L&L RV Park - Located just 10 miles from the beach and a mere 1/2 mile from Matagorda Harbor, where you can make use of the boat ramps to launch your own on the water adventure. L&L RV Park offers full hook-ups and can be found at the corner of Matagorda St. and Caney St. in Matagorda. Call 979-863-7799 or click to www.matagordabay.com/lodging.

Lighthouse RV Park - This park offers a secure, quiet camp area in a rural setting just four miles from the Matagorda Harbor and ten miles from Matagorda Beach. Lighthouse RV Park has 28 camp sites with cement pads and patios and 30/50 amp connections. They also offer cabins for rent, laundry facilities, a rec hall, and a new barbecue stand serving Texas style barbecue. Lighthouse RV Park is located 15 miles south of Bay City, Texas, click to www.matagordatexas.com/lighthouserv or call 979-863-7773.

Bert's RV Park - Bert's RV Park is located directly across from the Birding Nature Center, making it a great home base for those coming to partake in Matagorda County's world class bird watching opportunities. Bert's RV Park is located at 1120 Hwy. 35 S. in Bay City, Texas. Call 979-245-2840.

Fisherman's RV Park & Motel - Located in the town of Matagorda directly across the street from the Port of Bay City Harbor. For more information call 979-863-0000 or visit www.FishermansMotel.com.

Bayfront RV Park - Offering full hook-ups and a fishing pier, the Bayfront RV Park at 902 St. in Palacios (pronounced Pah-Lash-Uss) is a great choice for anglers. Call 361-972-3727.

The Pier Drive Inn RV Park -- Also in Palacios, this RV park also offers guests use of their fishing pier, as well as the convenience of an on-site grocery store. The Pier Drive Inn RV Park is located at 208 1st St. Call 361-972-3284.

Practicalities

For general information about planning a visit to Matagorda County, Texas, click on www.visitmatagorda.com or contact the Matagorda County Economic Development Corporation at 979-245-8913.

Matagorda driving distances:

• 80 miles from Houston
• 95 miles from Galveston
• 145 miles from Corpus Christi
• 165 miles from Austin
• 200 miles from San Antonio.