Situated 44 miles northwest of downtown Houston, Prairie View sits at an elevation of 250 feet in rolling, wooded terrain. The area's climate allows for year-round camping with moderate winters and hot summers, though spring and fall offer the most comfortable conditions. Campgrounds near Prairie View provide access to water recreation, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing areas with numerous seasonal activities throughout the year.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Somerville State Park Birch Creek Unit Campground offers shoreline fishing access, though success can vary. "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," notes one visitor who stayed at campsite 28.
Nature trails: Stephen F. Austin State Park Campground features well-marked hiking trails beneath Spanish moss-draped trees. "Saw numerous trails that looked easy, and tree/shade covered. Woke up to a beautiful fog in morning. Would return and explore," reported a camper who appreciated the park's flat, accessible trails.
Water activities: Beyond the well-known water features at Jellystone, Lake Conroe RV and Camping Resort offers lake access with boat rentals and a boat launch. A camper mentioned, "Although it's a small portion of the lake on the campgrounds side, you do have access to boat rentals, a boat launch and plenty of parking. Plus there is a beach area for families to enjoy."
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: The natural surroundings at Red Oak Ranch provide excellent opportunities for wildlife observation. One visitor described the setting as "beautiful, lot of animals and plants" making it ideal for nature photographers and wildlife enthusiasts.
Quiet camping environments: Thousand Trails Colorado River offers a peaceful atmosphere away from urban noise. A reviewer noted, "This is a very quiet and peaceful camp. Even though its springbreak and lots of kids, everyone is very respectful of their neighbors."
Scenic water views: Welch Park Somerville Lake provides waterfront camping with attractive vistas. "Gorgeous setting" was how one camper described it, though they cautioned it can get "very crowded" during peak times, with day visitors sometimes using campsite areas.
What you should know
Site selection matters: At Thousand Trails Colorado River, certain areas offer more privacy. "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," shared one camper who found an ideal spot.
Seasonal considerations: While year-round glamping is available near Prairie View, summer heat can be intense. At Stephen F. Austin State Park, a visitor advised getting a "site fairly close to the bathrooms because of the kiddos, one big enough to fit us all, and also one with a lot of shade because it was hella hot!"
Local wildlife awareness: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Camp-Resort Waller and surrounding campgrounds have abundant deer. At Colorado River campground, a camper advised, "When they talk about deer being everywhere, they ain't kidding. And watch where you walk in the grass, the deer left presents."
Tips for camping with families
Weekday visits for fewer crowds: If seeking a quieter glamping experience near Prairie View, consider scheduling during weekdays. A visitor to Houston West RV Park mentioned, "We camped during the week and it wasn't very crowded. Plenty to do for our little ones."
Age-appropriate trails: Lake Somerville State Park offers family-friendly hiking options. "The trails were beautiful and easy to get through (marked well) with all of us," noted a family who visited with young children. "Most of the trails were short (less than a mile), so if you are looking for a place for moderate or extreme hiking, it is not here, but for the kids, these were perfect!"
Bathroom proximity: When glamping with young children at Stephen F. Austin State Park, site location matters. A parent advised, "If you have kids or a small bladder get a site close to the bathrooms otherwise it could be little walk from one of the other sites because of the way they are spaced out."
Tips from RVers
Arrival timing: For easier navigation, arrive at campgrounds during daylight hours. An RV camper at Lake Somerville State Park mentioned, "Gate open 0800 to 2200. No campsites near river. Campground contacted us to inquire when we'd arrive (it was late) and confirmed we'd checked in before staff left."
Budget-friendly options: Karstens RV Resort offers economical glamping opportunities near Prairie View with full amenities. A visitor noted, "Clean, great rates. Very good wifi included," making it suitable for digital nomads needing connectivity while camping.
Site leveling requirements: Be prepared to level your RV at some campgrounds in the area. A visitor to Lake Somerville State Park commented, "Good size lake with access to it from the park itself. Nice clean park as most state parks in Texas are. Well, 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."
