Lake Somerville State Park Birch Creek Unit offers expansive camping options near Burton, Texas, with sites nestled along a 11,630-acre reservoir. The park sits at approximately 250 feet above sea level in the Post Oak Savannah ecoregion, characterized by rolling terrain and a mix of grasslands and woodlands. Water levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting lake access and fishing conditions throughout the year.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Somerville provides year-round fishing with designated fishing piers and shoreline access at several parks. "There's a good size lake with access to it from the park itself. Nice clean park as most state parks in Texas are," notes a camper at Lake Somerville State Park Birch Creek Unit. For those with watercraft, "Near the campsites one can launch a canoe or kayak. But there is also a boat ramp and boat dock where you can launch larger sized watercraft," according to a visitor.
Hiking trail access: Multiple trail systems connect camping areas to scenic overlooks and lakeshores. At Stephen F. Austin State Park, "Fun little campground in the river! Great for hikes in the shady trees, or even a bike ride!" The trail system offers flat terrain suitable for most skill levels. A visitor commented, "Nice trails but very busy on weekends as Houstonians escape the city for some country fun!"
Swimming and water recreation: Designated swimming areas provide safer alternatives to open water. "There is a huge lake for our canoe and lots of room for the kids to run around," states a visitor to Lake Bastrop North Shore Park. Many parks maintain swimming areas with clear boundaries for safety during peak summer months when water activities are most popular.
What campers like
Shade coverage: The dense tree canopy at many campsites provides critical relief during hot Texas summers. "Lots of shaded coverage, amazing trails, amazing views," reports one camper at Lake Somerville State Park. This natural protection becomes especially valuable during summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 90°F.
Wildlife viewing: Deer sightings are common throughout the camping areas near Burton. A visitor to Thousand Trails Colorado River notes, "Very quiet and peaceful camp... Lots of places to walk or ride your bikes. Their are also deer everywhere." Another camper mentions, "Very quiet. Trails to walk and lots of deer."
Peaceful atmosphere: Many campgrounds maintain quiet hours and separation between sites. "This place doesn't disappoint. There are nice hiking trails. The lake views are beautiful. All the campsites appear to be very well kept," shares a visitor to Lake Somerville State Park. For those seeking glamping close to Burton, Texas, the relative seclusion creates ideal conditions for relaxation.
What you should know
Weather and seasonal considerations: Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F, requiring preparation for heat. "It's HOT in Texas during the summer. During our outing the temperatures reached 105F, but we were having so much fun that it really didn't matter," explains a camper at Lake Bastrop North Shore Park. Spring brings increased rainfall and potential for site flooding.
Insect management: Biting insects can be problematic, particularly during warmer months. "Gnats were really bad at night, but mosquitos were tolerable. Just be prepared and you'll be fine," advises a camper at Lake Somerville. Advance preparation with repellents and proper clothing reduces discomfort.
Reservation timing: Holiday weekends and summer months require advance booking for luxury glamping options near Burton. "This time was from Christmas Eve until the Sunday after. This place doesn't disappoint," notes one visitor regarding winter camping availability at Lake Somerville State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly sites: Select campsites with proximity to restrooms and water access for convenience. "We wanted a site fairly close to the bathrooms because of the kiddos, one big enough to fit us all, and also one with a lot of shade because it was hella hot! We chose site 72 and it worked really well," shares a camper at Stephen F. Austin State Park.
Safety considerations: Lake access points vary in water depth and supervision levels. "There is a community space in the center of the park which has picnic tables, a fishing pier, open water access and an area that is roped off for swimming," notes a visitor describing Lake Bastrop's facilities.
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer junior ranger programs and educational signage. "Kids got to do the junior ranger program which they loved. There was a fire not long before we visited in 2012, which was sad but interesting to see," recalls a visitor to Bastrop State Park.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Full hookup sites offer varying amp services depending on the park. "Full hookups with 30 amps. Semi circle drive thru that fit my 44 ft motorhome and towed Jeep," reports a visitor to Bastrop State Park. Sites with water and electric service typically cost $25-35 per night while luxury glamping near Burton, Texas ranges from $75-150 nightly.
Site leveling requirements: Many campsites require leveling equipment for comfort. "The site required leveling side-to-side. Quiet campsite. No highway noise. Train whistle in distant," notes a camper at Stephen F. Austin State Park. Some parks offer concrete pads while others feature gravel or natural surfaces.
Cellular connectivity: Service varies significantly between camping areas. "I have T-Mobile cell service and it fluctuates between 4G and 5G. I'm able to use the internet send and receive text messages and call out and receive calls," reports a Lake Somerville visitor. AT&T users report 1-4 bars depending on specific campsite location.
