Lake Somerville State Park Birch Creek Unit stands approximately 30 miles northwest of Giddings at an elevation of 250 feet. The park encompasses over 2,000 acres with terrain consisting of post oak woodlands and open grasslands. Water levels at Lake Somerville fluctuate seasonally with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 95°F and mild winters averaging 60°F.
What to do
Hiking network exploration: The trails at Lake Bastrop North Shore Park provide less crowded alternatives to Birch Creek's main paths. "There's a trail that leads to a nice view of Lake Bastrop," notes reviewer Troy W., who appreciates the park's more basic amenities that "attract campers with more basic needs" resulting in "fewer families, less crowds and more peace and quiet."
Mountain biking opportunities: Bluff Creek Ranch offers excellent trails specifically designed for mountain biking enthusiasts. "This is a mountain biker's dream! Well groomed tent camping around a large pond with showers and toilets just a short walk away," writes Yvette K., who notes that the trails are particularly good for "intermediate to advanced mountain bikers."
Wildlife observation: Bastrop State Park hosts diverse wildlife viewing opportunities among its recovering pine forests. "The camping grounds are nice. They have water and electric hook-ups, along with bathrooms and showers near most sites," explains Jennifer J., who adds, "It is heartbreaking to see all the damage to the Pines, due to the wildfires, but it is recovering well."
What campers like
Waterfront access: Lake Somerville State Park Birch Creek Unit provides multiple waterfront sites. "This spot had easy access to the bathrooms and to the trail to the lake," reports Caitlin H., who explored the area's trail system but found some trails closed due to flooding during her visit.
Secluded camping spots: Oak Thicket Park offers peaceful sites with substantial tree coverage for privacy. "We stayed in site 6. After walking around and viewing the other sites, we feel this is the best site around. Lots of trees great space plenty of room for multiple families," states reviewer M H., who appreciates that while "it's not waterfront but it is extremely close."
Year-round water recreation: Thousand Trails Colorado River provides river access and two additional fishing ponds. "We love it here. Right on the Colorado river plus two ponds to fish in. Lots of places to walk or ride your bikes," writes Missy C., who also notes that deer are commonly seen throughout the property.
What you should know
Trail closures: Lake Somerville trails occasionally close due to flooding conditions. "The trail system is apparently expansive, but had been closed while were there due to some flooding," reports Caitlin H., who still managed to explore some open sections: "We did explore the Wilderness Run and Sunset trails, both of which we enjoyed."
Seasonal challenges: Summer heat requires preparation when glamping in Giddings, Texas area parks. "Visited during the middle of summer, so it was very hot, sunny, and dry. Bring sun screen and plenty of water!" advises Danielle R. about her experience at Bastrop State Park.
Insect preparation: Evening insects are common during warm months. "Typically, and as expected, gnats were really bad at night, but mosquitos were tolerable. Just be prepared and you'll be fine," warns Jeff from Lake Somerville State Park, describing typical conditions in east Texas camping areas.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water activities: McKinney Falls State Park offers accessible swimming spots for various skill levels. "The great part is the swimming. The water was warm, and it was perfect for new swimmers with floaties and advanced swimmers. There's a place where you can jump off the rocks into the water," reports Steph C.
Wildlife spotting opportunities: McKinney Falls State Park features educational wildlife viewing close to Austin. "My family and I took a camping trip out here when I was in grad school back in 2016 around the time of Thanksgiving. We took our dogs and camped in a group campsite," recalls Michael C., adding that "The mini waterfalls here are really neat along with the rock formations. Good family-friendly camping for sure."
Junior ranger programs: Bastrop State Park offers educational activities for children. "Kids got to do the junior ranger program which they loved," says Kim B., who visited with children and appreciated the "lots of easy trails, historic buildings, nature center, woods, pool."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: When glamping near Giddings at Brazos Valley RV Park, choose wider sites for larger rigs. "Site was more than wide enough and more than long enough for my total 62 foot rig," reports James G., who appreciated that despite "some long termers but all were clean and neat."
RV pad conditions: Check site conditions before reserving at Lake Somerville. "The only thing I think that they could improve would be the pads where you park your trailer on. Some of them need to be redone," advises Red S., who still rated the park highly for its other amenities.
Site spacing considerations: Thousand Trails Colorado River offers good separation between units in certain areas. "We had space D25 which is on the outside of the big loop by the river and boat ramp. Lots of space on the door side to the next unit, and nature behind us," notes Brian P., who adds that "there was no loud music or rowdy camps."
