Lake Somerville State Park offers equestrian camping opportunities within 30 miles of Burton, Texas. The park spans over 3,000 acres with elevations ranging from 250-300 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 95°F, while winter nights can drop below freezing, creating distinct camping conditions throughout the year.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Visitors at Lake Somerville State Park Birch Creek Unit report diverse wildlife sightings. "Great amount of wildlife. Equestrian area looked like it was restored and back-in-business," notes Jeff, who camped during summer.
Kayaking on the lake: The park provides access to a large body of water with minimal boat traffic. "Great kayaking and very little motorized boat traffic," reports Laura F. from Nails Creek Unit, adding that spring visits offer excellent bird watching opportunities.
Fishing opportunities: The lake supports various fish species, though catch rates vary seasonally. "My husband went fishing for a bit. He didn't catch anything, but he witnessed another gentleman catch a 20" fish, so we know there are fish in the lake," shares Margaret P., who stayed at Birch Creek during winter.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Campers appreciate the well-separated sites at horse campgrounds near Burton. "We stayed in site 77 and I really liked the privacy of most campsites. This spot had easy access to the bathrooms and to the trail to the lake," explains Caitlin H. from Birch Creek Unit.
Wilderness experience: The park's natural setting creates authentic outdoor immersion. "Moon was nearly full and the coyotes were howling all night long. All in all it was a nice small state park with great views of Lake Somerville," says Ty C. R., who stayed at an equestrian site at Nails Creek.
Trail system accessibility: The network of paths accommodates various outdoor activities. "The trails are numerous, but not well marked," mentions Jeff, noting that recent restoration efforts have reduced hog damage that previously affected the trail system.
What you should know
Limited nearby services: Basic supplies require some driving. "The closest gas station is 10 miles. There is a Dollar General store for basic stuff. If you need something, that's about 5 miles," explains Red S. at Lake Somerville.
Weather considerations: Texas heat impacts summer visits while winter offers more moderate conditions. "In July 2020, there were very few folks in the park, partly, I'm sure due to Covid-19 and well, its July in Texas," reports Jeff, noting that gnats were prevalent in the evening.
Cell service quality: Connectivity varies by provider and specific campsite location. "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," notes Red S., who also mentioned getting clear TV signal with an antenna.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Vernon L Richards Riverbend Park offers recreational facilities for children. "There are a number of recreational facilities at the park such as a playground, baseball field and frisbee golf course," reports Troy W., noting the Colorado River runs along one side of the park.
Evening wildlife experience: Nighttime offers natural entertainment for children. "Had great night camping at Lake Somerville SP-Nails Creek. It was really quite with only 2 other sites occupied. Lots of coyotes and owls calling throughout the night," Hannah B. shares about her experience.
Swimming options: Water activities provide summer relief. "There's a good size lake with access to it from the park itself," says Red S., while Lisa G. at Iron Horse RV Resort mentions "They have a beautiful pavilion and a lazy river" that appeals to families.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Campers should examine site conditions before setup. "Some of them need to be redone," notes Red S. regarding the pads at Birch Creek Unit, suggesting careful inspection before positioning your RV.
Traffic noise awareness: Houston West RV Park provides convenient access but with some highway noise. "This park is only about a block off of Route 10 near Houston. Great place to stay if you are just passing through," mentions Tara R., adding a caution about red ants in the area.
Equestrian site advantages: Horse-specific areas offer additional amenities. "We stayed equestrian site 4 which is a fairly private site," reports Ty C. R., while Jeff notes the equestrian area "looked like it was restored and back-in-business" after hurricane damage.
Guide
