Lake Somerville State Park spans across central Texas near Ledbetter with the Birch Creek Unit on the north shore and Nails Creek Unit on the south shore of Lake Somerville. The park features rolling terrain with post oak forest and prairie grasslands, situated at approximately 250 feet elevation. Summers can be hot with temperatures regularly exceeding 95°F between June and August, making spring and fall popular camping seasons.
What to do
Trail riding: The Lake Somerville Trailway offers extensive equestrian riding opportunities connecting both park units. At Lake Somerville State Park Birch Creek Unit, one camper noted, "There is a good size lake with access to it from the park itself. Nice clean park as most state parks in Texas are." The trails provide varied terrain through woods and along the lakeshore.
Kayaking and fishing: The lake provides excellent water recreation options. A visitor at Lake Somerville State Park Nails Creek Unit reported, "Stopped in here for a place to stay while on a hunting trip. Service was phenomenal and they answered any questions on the spot." Another camper mentioned, "Stopped into here on the way from Austin down to the coast... Went for a nice paddle on the lake until the winds came up."
Wildlife observation: Spring through fall offers prime wildlife viewing. According to one camper, "We saw many birds this spring. The hiking and biking is all well defined double track with little elevation change." Early mornings and evenings are best for spotting deer and various bird species throughout the park.
What campers like
Quiet atmosphere: Many campers appreciate the peaceful environment. One visitor noted, "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." The park remains uncrowded particularly on weekdays and during non-summer seasons.
Spacious sites: Campers value the well-designed campsites. A reviewer at Iron Horse RV Resort mentioned, "The grounds are clean and the spaces are wide." At Lake Somerville State Park, sites include concrete table pads and level parking areas with good separation between neighbors.
Clean facilities: Park maintenance receives positive comments. According to one camper at Birch Creek Unit, "All the campsites appear to be very well kept. 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." Regular maintenance of restrooms and shower facilities enhances the camping experience.
What you should know
Weather and flooding: The area can experience periodic flooding that affects trails and facilities. One camper at Vernon L Richards Riverbend Park shared, "We arrived around 11:30 pm to the park and was stopped by a very helpful officer that explained to us the park was closed, but helped us get a spot anyways and directions." Check current conditions before visiting, especially after heavy rains.
Limited supplies: The nearest stores are several miles away. A camper noted, "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." Bring essential supplies as convenience stores have limited inventory and hours.
Bridge conditions: Trail access between park units may be affected by bridge conditions. One visitor mentioned, "Two bridges are out on the Trailway which limits options a bit." Call the park office for current trail status before planning long rides or hikes between units.
Tips for camping with families
Best sites for children: Choose sites with easy bathroom access and shade. A camper at Birch Creek Unit shared, "This spot had easy access to the bathrooms and to the trail to the lake. My husband and friend attempted to fish on the lakeshore but were unsuccessful." Sites in the Old Hickory loop provide good tree cover during summer months.
Recreational options: Take advantage of multiple activities within the park. As one visitor to Wolf Pond Group Camp area noted, "There are nice hiking trails. The lake views are beautiful." The family fishing pond near park headquarters offers easier fishing access for children than the main lake.
Wildlife education: Use wildlife sightings as learning opportunities. A camper observed, "We stayed equestrian site 4 which is a fairly private site." Bring binoculars and wildlife identification guides to help children identify birds and animals around the campgrounds.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Reserve sites with adequate length and utilities. According to one RVer, "Well spaced spots. Fairly level pads with table, fire ring, 30/50 amp electrical, water. We didn't see any covered tables, but all usable spots had concrete pads for tables." The equestrian camping areas accommodate larger rigs better than standard camping loops.
Seasonal considerations: Plan for weather and insects. A camper mentioned, "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." Spring and fall offer more comfortable temperatures and fewer insects.
Connectivity: Cell service varies throughout the park. One 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." Service is generally better at higher elevation points within the park.
