Best Equestrian Camping near Ledbetter, TX

Lake Somerville State Park Nails Creek Unit offers equestrian campsites with individual corrals at each site. The equestrian camping area provides water and electrical hookups with 30/50 amp service, fire rings with adjustable grates, and picnic tables on concrete pads. Campers reference The Dyrt for top tips on camping near Ledbetter, Texas. Sites are spacious and relatively private, with trees providing ample shade during summer months. The equestrian sites accommodate both RVs and tents, with some sites offering views of Lake Somerville. Each campsite includes 1-2 horse corrals, allowing riders to keep their animals close by overnight. Trailer parking is available at the sites, which feature level asphalt pads long enough for both campers and trucks with room to spare.

The park features over 14 miles of equestrian trails connecting the Nails Creek Unit with the nearby Birch Creek Unit. Trail riders report abundant wildlife viewing opportunities, including deer and various bird species, particularly during spring when wildflowers bloom throughout the park. The Lake Somerville Trailway offers longer riding routes, though riders should check trail conditions as some bridges have been damaged by past flooding. Clear nights provide excellent stargazing opportunities after evening trail rides. Water access for horses exists throughout the trail system, and the relative quiet of the park enhances the riding experience, with coyote calls often heard at night. The equestrian campground typically remains uncrowded, especially during weekdays, making it an ideal destination for horse enthusiasts seeking a peaceful outdoor experience.

Best Equestrian Sites Near Ledbetter, Texas (6)

    1. Lake Somerville State Park Birch Creek Unit Campground

    16 Reviews
    Somerville, TX
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (979) 535-7763

    $12 - $300 / night

    "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. "

    "Great spot, all the txpw amenities, friendly as can be staff, clean restrooms, well maintained campsites and nature. 14+ miles of equestrian trails!"

    2. Lake Somerville State Park Nails Creek Unit Campground

    9 Reviews
    Burton, TX
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (979) 289-2392

    $12 - $20 / night

    "Some sites even have corrals for horses! The best part is the proximity to the lake. Kayaks and canoes are available for rent for a really low price."

    "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."

    3. Vernon L Richards Riverbend Park

    2 Reviews
    Smithville, TX
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (512) 237-3282

    $20 - $25 / night

    "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."

    4. Wolf Pond Group Camp — Lake Somerville State Park

    Be the first to review!
    Somerville, TX
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (979) 535-7763

    $20 - $200 / night

    5. Iron Horse RV Resort

    1 Review
    Schulenburg, TX
    32 miles
    Website
    +1 (979) 263-4305

    $59 / night

    "First time at Iron Horse RV resort, won't be our last!  The grounds are clean and the spaces are wide.  They have a beautiful pavilion and a lazy river. "

    6. University RV Park

    7 Reviews
    Wellborn, TX
    43 miles
    Website
    +1 (979) 690-6056

    "Whether you're struggling with intricate medical terminology, patient data analysis, or ethical principles, our tutors are available to support you every step of the way."

    "There was something like this near my university. I went there to retire and read."

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Recent Equestrian Camping Photos near Ledbetter, TX

1 Photos of 6 Ledbetter Campgrounds


Equestrian Camping Reviews near Ledbetter, TX

35 Reviews of 6 Ledbetter Campgrounds


  • Jeff
    Oct. 8, 2020

    Lake Somerville State Park Birch Creek Unit Campground

    Great camping large lake, good location - July 2020

    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.  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.  Sites are well dispersed, but some appear to be no longer in use.  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.  Just be prepared and you'll be fine.  Great kayaking and very little motorized boat traffic, but likely due to current situation.  Trails are numerous, but not well marked.  We didn't see a lot of hog damage on the trails, so maybe the staff has been working on that.  Good amount of wildlife  Equestrian area looked like it was restored and  back-in-business.   Will be returning.  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.

  • Ashley C.
    Aug. 13, 2017

    Lake Somerville State Park Nails Creek Unit Campground

    Great ammenities!

    The campsites are not very large, but it's ok because the sites are separated from each other which is nice. Some sites even have corrals for horses! The best part is the proximity to the lake. Kayaks and canoes are available for rent for a really low price. Bathrooms and showers have good access from the sites and are kept clean. Overall, one of the best state parks we've stayed at in Texas!

  • Laura F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 22, 2021

    Lake Somerville State Park Nails Creek Unit Campground

    Nice RV sites with hiking and biking

    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. There are trails you can access in the park, with many more miles a short drive away. Two bridges are out on the Trailway which limits options a bit. The hiking and biking is all well defined double track with little elevation change. We saw many birds this spring.

  • Ty C. R.
    Dec. 28, 2020

    Lake Somerville State Park Nails Creek Unit Campground

    Great campsite

    We stayed equestrian site 4 which is a fairly private site. 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.

  • Lynn G.
    Sep. 30, 2017

    Lake Somerville State Park Nails Creek Unit Campground

    Lakeside camp

    This park is spread out to 3 sites along the lake and this campground is at the middle sized one. It is a bit of a drive to get to the largest area. It’s a very pretty lush forested area with a lot to do on the water and trails.

    Yay: campgrounds are wooded, large, and rather private. None of them have an amazing view, but they are all a short walk to the water’s edge.

    Nay: It can flood.

    Surprise: Great wildlife on the trails with lots of educational displays and programs. Famous for birding. If you have a horse, bring it!

  • Denise V.
    Jan. 20, 2022

    Lake Somerville State Park Nails Creek Unit Campground

    Great Fall Camping, Equestrian Area

    A nice, quiet fall camping weekend on Lake Somerville. It was a solo trip and since the weather was warm, I brought my kayak on this trip.

    Check In: 2p Check Out: 12p

    ⛺ 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
    • Corrals for horses

    👍🏻 Pros:

    • Extra parking places across the street
    • Can see the lake from this spot

    👎🏻 Cons:

    • There's not a direct trail to the lake shore other than animal trails through some of the tall grass
    • The table and fire ring are on the non-camping side so it was a little strange. Very dark at night on that side.

    📝 Park Notes:

    • Dump Station
    • Restrooms/ Showers- clean. The Bent Tree area has a portable trailer for the restrooms and showers. The main building is closed.
    • There are Munzees and Geocaches here
    • Lots of trails in the park and between this and the Birch Creek Unit
    • Great trails for equestrians
    • Enclosed Group shelter for events (no kitchen)
    • Family Fishing Pond (small)
    • The open style pavilion doesn't appear to be open. Looks like it's is structurally unsound

    🐦 Wildlife:

    • Birds: Great Blue Heron, Cardinals, Chickadees
    • Deer
    • Squirrels

    💜 Highlights of this trip:

    •🔥 Campfires and breakfast over the fire

    •🐕 My brother came for a short visit to walk the dog

    •🛶 Kayaking and there was only ONE other boat on the lake

    •🍂 Nice fall colors

    •🚫 Some of the trails and areas of the park were closed this weekend due to public hunts

    •🌟 Warm temperatures and clear nights. Lots of stars.

    •💚 Found a couple geocaches and put out a few Munzees

    More info at https://www.denisevajdak.com/2021/12/fall-camping-at-lake-somerville.html

  • Evan V.
    Mar. 19, 2022

    Lake Somerville State Park Birch Creek Unit Campground

    Great spot 1/2way between Austin and Houston

    Great spot, all the txpw amenities, friendly as can be staff, clean restrooms, well maintained campsites and nature. 14+ miles of equestrian trails! GREAT birdwatching, several different species this time of year. Leaf cutter ants all over the trails! Active wildlife at night with coyote hunts making a good bit of commotion. I would have given 5 stars but the fishing pier is still out of commission from flood damage.

  • L
    Jul. 17, 2018

    Lake Somerville State Park Birch Creek Unit Campground

    Fisherman’s paradise

    The lake is fairly warm, large amount of bass, huge gar, croppy, And catfish. when the water is right you can take a flat bottom boat up to any of the creeks. Overall a great campground with decent facilities. They do have horse stalls at many of the campsites so definitely bring your horse and trot around the lake !! They do have rv and tent sites with a lot of trails that are mowed down and well taken care of. Lots of picnic areas and covered areas S well!

  • A
    May. 2, 2020

    Lake Somerville State Park Birch Creek Unit Campground

    Just after Hurricane Harvey

    We camped at the horse spot. These camping spots are mostly spacious and private - plenty of shade trees. We walked some trails, but they were mostly flattened/destroyed by Hurricane Harvey. Hopefully by now they have been rebuilt and are just as beautiful as I imagined them. If I were still local to the area, I would definitely go back, and definitely recommend others to go as well.


Guide to Ledbetter

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Ledbetter, TX?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Ledbetter, TX is Lake Somerville State Park Birch Creek Unit Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 16 reviews.

What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Ledbetter, TX?

TheDyrt.com has all 6 equestrian camping locations near Ledbetter, TX, with real photos and reviews from campers.