Equestrian camping opportunities near San Felipe, Texas are situated in the gently rolling prairie landscape of southeast Texas, characterized by post oak woodlands, open meadows, and access to Lake Somerville. The region experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and mild winters, making fall through spring the optimal camping seasons. Mosquitoes can be particularly abundant near water sources during warmer months, especially at dusk.
What to do
Wildlife observation: Lake Somerville State Park Birch Creek Unit Campground offers exceptional opportunities to view native Texas wildlife. One visitor noted, "Great wildlife on the trails with lots of educational displays and programs. Famous for birding. If you have a horse, bring it!" The park maintains several miles of trails through diverse habitats.
Stargazing: The George Observatory at Brazos Bend State Park Campground provides exceptional night sky viewing. A camper shared, "The best part of this park is the observatory, which has special events and regular weekend hours pretty much all year. It's absolutely worth staying up late for this!" The observatory offers weekend programming and special events throughout the year.
Kayaking and canoeing: Lake Somerville State Park Nails Creek Unit Campground provides water recreation with boat rentals. "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," reported one visitor. The lake offers 11,400 acres of water surface for paddling and fishing.
What campers like
Private sites with nature access: Campers appreciate the well-spaced sites at Nails Creek Unit. "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!" Many equestrian sites include horse corrals, making this a practical option for horse camping near San Felipe.
Clean facilities: Iron Horse RV Resort maintains well-kept grounds with amenities. "The grounds are clean and the spaces are wide. They have a beautiful pavilion and a lazy river," noted one reviewer. The resort also features weekend entertainment during holiday periods.
Trail system: Birch Creek offers extensive hiking and biking opportunities. A reviewer commented, "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." The park connects to the Lake Somerville Trailway System with over 13 miles of trails.
What you should know
Flooding and maintenance issues: Some areas of Lake Somerville State Park Birch Creek Unit have experienced damage. One camper 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." Some trails and facilities may be temporarily closed after heavy rains.
Wildlife encounters: Brazos Bend is known for its alligator population. A camper shared, "If you go in the summer you need to watch out for mosquitoes. The observatory is amazing on clear nights." Another added, "Staying here as a pass through for a few nights. VERY clean campground. Have also seen lots of alligators, as advertised, which has been pretty cool!"
Limited services: Most campgrounds in the area have basic amenities but limited shopping. "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," reported one Birch Creek visitor. Stock up on supplies before arriving.
Tips for camping with families
Alligator viewing opportunities: Houston West RV Park provides a convenient base for exploring regional attractions. A camper mentioned, "Very nice RV Campground with large dog park, laundry, and cleaned showers and toilets. Easy drive to see the Johnson Space Center." The park features a stocked fishing pond and walking trails.
Educational programs: Brazos Bend offers engaging nature programs. "We loved seeing the gators, especially when the babies were hatching (spot dozens of babies in the photos). The observatory is also incredible," reported one family. The park's nature center allows children to see small alligators up close.
Swimming options: Lake Somerville provides designated swimming areas. "Nice quite little camp,ground with easy lake swimming area. Good time," noted a visitor to Birch Creek Unit. The lake maintains designated swimming areas with gradual entry points suitable for children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: When booking at Happy Campers, consider the season and your shade needs. At Lake Somerville, a visitor advised, "Well spaced spots. Fairly level pads with table, fire ring, 30/50 amp electrical, water. We stayed in the equestrian area since the other area for non equestrian sites is currently closed." RV sites at Lake Somerville typically accommodate vehicles up to 40 feet.
Budget considerations: Houston West RV Park offers competitive rates. One RVer shared, "Every other campground in the Houston area seems to be $55+, but with AAA discount I only paid $45 here! They were very accommodating when I called and gave us an easy spot up front because we were arriving after 8pm." Many parks in the region offer discounts for extended stays.
Site amenities: At Lake Somerville Birch Creek, RVers appreciate the reliable utilities. "Sites are far enough away that you have privacy. Nice bathrooms and playground area. Large clean sites with water and electricity. My starlink is a little spotty with the trees but am still able to work remote with no major issues," reported a recent visitor. Most RV sites in the area provide 30/50 amp service and water hookups.
