Lake Somerville State Park consists of two main units located approximately 15 minutes apart by car. The park offers access to a 11,630-acre reservoir with numerous camping options for outdoor enthusiasts between Austin and Houston. Visitors can enjoy a combination of wooded campsites and water recreation activities throughout the year, with spring and fall providing the most comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities.
What to Do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Somerville offers accessible fishing from multiple locations. As one camper noted at Lake Somerville State Park Birch Creek Unit Campground, "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."
Paddling: The lake provides excellent opportunities for kayaking with minimal motorized boat traffic during certain times. "Went for a nice paddle on the lake until the winds came up," reports a visitor to Lake Somerville State Park Nails Creek Unit Campground. Another camper mentioned, "Kayaking and there was only ONE other boat on the lake."
Rodeo events: For something unique, Vernon L Richards Riverbend Park offers rodeo facilities during specific times of the year. "The Colorado River runs along one side of the park and offers opportunities for paddling and fishing. One of the most unique features is that there are rodeo facilities on the grounds. The rodeo events only occur during certain times of the year, so check the park's website and calendar."
What Campers Like
Privacy between sites: Campers frequently mention the spaciousness of sites at Lake Somerville. One visitor stated, "We stayed in campsite 28, which is a great space...unless it's windy. Had great internet service, which is unusual for us in a state park." Another camper at Lake Somerville State Park Birch Creek Unit appreciated that "Sites are well dispersed, but some appear to be no longer in use."
Nature sounds: The park offers genuine wildlife experiences. One camper noted, "Moon was nearly full and the coyotes were howling all night long." Another visitor enjoyed "Lots of coyotes and owls calling throughout the night."
Stargazing: Clear night skies provide excellent stargazing opportunities in this area between Austin and Houston. A camper mentioned "Warm temperatures and clear nights. Lots of stars" as one of their trip highlights.
What You Should Know
Weather and seasonal considerations: Summer brings typical Texas heat and insects. A camper at Lake Somerville reported, "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! Typically, and as expected, gnats were really bad at night, but mosquitos were tolerable."
Trail conditions: Trail maintenance varies throughout the year. One visitor warned, "While the Birch Creek and Nails Creek sections are visible across the lake from each other, there is a long drive (15 minutes in a vehicle around the lake) to get between them, so plan your time accordingly."
Flooding impacts: Parts of the park have experienced flooding damage. A camper at Wolf Pond Group Camp noted, "Like a lot of east-Texas camping areas, LSSP was also devastated by Hurricane Harvey and is still recovering, but don't let that stop you, but instead level-set your expectations."
Tips for Camping with Families
Recreation facilities: Some campgrounds offer additional facilities for family activities. Vernon L Richards Riverbend Park provides "a number of recreational facilities at the park such as a playground, baseball field and frisbee golf course."
Educational opportunities: The park offers learning experiences for children. "Great wildlife on the trails with lots of educational displays and programs. Famous for birding," shared one visitor.
Campsite selection: When camping with children, look for sites near amenities. One family at Iron Horse RV Resort enjoyed their stay, noting, "The grounds are clean and the spaces are wide. They have a beautiful pavilion and a lazy river. Saturday night (for the Labor Day weekend) they brought in a band - they were wonderful."
Tips from RVers
Site length and layout: Some sites accommodate larger rigs better than others. A camper reported about Lake Somerville State Park Birch Creek Unit, "The sites have nice paved spots, many have views of the lake, and are spacious. We stayed in the equestrian area since the other area for non-equestrian sites is currently closed."
Hookup details: RVers should note the available utilities at each site. One camper detailed, "Site#26- Back-In, $20 per night+$4/person/day Parks Pass Discount saved $18.00, Water, 20/30 amp, Fire Ring with grate, Picnic Table: wood with metal legs, concrete base, Site Pad: Asphalt, level, long enough for my camper and truck with room to spare."
Cell service: Connectivity varies by location and provider. A camper noted, "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. Also I have an antenna for air tv channels. TV signal is good and clear."
