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FacilityCampgroundRecreation.gov

AIRPORT BEACH SHELTER

China Spring, Texas · McLennan County · Campground

Overview Airport Beach Shelter, located on one of Waco Lake's sandy beaches, is ideal for families and friends to enjoy picnicking, sightseeing and water activities, all while staying within the Waco city limits.Recreation The main lake shoreline has a large amount of submerged timber, which typically holds fish year-r…

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31.60681, -97.23367
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About AIRPORT BEACH SHELTER

Overview Airport Beach Shelter, located on one of Waco Lake's sandy beaches, is ideal for families and friends to enjoy picnicking, sightseeing and water activities, all while staying within the Waco city limits.Recreation The main lake shoreline has a large amount of submerged timber, which typically holds fish year-round. Anglers will find plenty of catfish, crappie, large and smallmouth bass as well as sunfish. A swimming beach, boat ramp and dock all help visitors enjoy the lake.Facilities The accessible shelter fits 110 guests, and a picnic area with grills and tables makes the park ideal for large parties and family functions.Natural Features Airport Beach Park is located on the North Shore of Waco Lake, about a quarter-mile west of the dam. The lake is primarily fed by the Bosque River, which runs for 115 miles through central Texas. Nearby Attractions Waco Lake Wetlands educational tours take visitors through a six-acre nursery of aquatic plants and more than 130 species of birds. A zoo is also located nearby.

How to Get There

From I-35 take Lake Shore Drive exit (Exit 339) and drive west to Steinbeck Bend Road. Turn right and proceed to second stop light. At intersection with FM1637 (China Spring Highway) turn right. Go to next stop light (Flat Rock Road). Turn left and drive approximately 1 mile to Skeet Eason Road. Turn left and drive about a 1/2 mile. Airport Beach Park is on the second road to the right.

Driving directions (Google Maps) →

What to Pack for Your Stay

Tuned to the live forecast for this park.

👔 What to Wear

  • 👕
    Moisture-wicking T-shirt
    Light color, breathable.
  • 🩳
    Lightweight shorts or pants
    Quick-dry preferred — sweat dries fast.
  • 🧢
    Brimmed sun hat
    Better than a cap for back-of-neck protection.
  • 🥾
    Trail runners
    Breathable mesh uppers.

🎒 What to Pack

  • 💧
    Water
    Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
  • 🍫
    High-energy snacks
    A snack for the trail.
  • 🧴
    Sun protection
    Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
  • 🩹
    First-aid kit
    Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
  • 🗺
    Offline map
    Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.

Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.

Plan Your Visit to AIRPORT BEACH SHELTER

Heading to AIRPORT BEACH SHELTER? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for AIRPORT BEACH SHELTER?

No central reservation system listed for AIRPORT BEACH SHELTER. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/234560) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to AIRPORT BEACH SHELTER?

From I-35 take Lake Shore Drive exit (Exit 339) and drive west to Steinbeck Bend Road. Turn right and proceed to second stop light. At intersection with FM1637 (China Spring Highway) turn right. Go to next stop light (Flat Rock Road). Turn left and drive approximately 1 mile to Skeet Eason Road. Turn left and drive about a 1/2 mile. Airport Beach Park is on the second road to the right.

How do I contact AIRPORT BEACH SHELTER?

You can reach the park at phone: 254-756-5359.