Camping near Somerville Lake
Camping opportunities surround Somerville Lake in eastern central Texas with both state-managed and Army Corps of Engineers campgrounds offering various accommodation types. Lake Somerville State Park features two separate units—Birch Creek and Nails Creek—connected by a 13-mile trail system. Several Corps-managed areas including Rocky Creek, Yegua Creek, and Welch Park provide additional camping options with most sites offering water and electric hookups. Tent camping, RV sites, and cabin rentals are available throughout the region, with most campgrounds positioned to take advantage of lake views.
Access to most campgrounds remains open year-round, though summer weekends typically experience higher occupancy rates. Most sites require reservations, particularly for waterfront locations and holiday periods. The region features generally level terrain with crushed granite or paved camping pads at developed sites. Bathhouse facilities vary in quality across campgrounds, with some reviews noting cleanliness concerns. The area experiences hot, humid summers while spring and fall provide more moderate temperatures. A camper noted, "The lake is beautiful. The sites are laid out well. Restroom and showers are clean. There is a marina a few miles away that you can fish off their pier for $5 a day."
Waterfront sites receive consistently positive feedback from visitors, with several campgrounds offering direct lake access. Most developed campgrounds provide amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, and grills, though site spacing varies between locations. Wildlife viewing opportunities include deer, which frequently appear in campground areas, along with various bird species including herons, cranes, and cardinals. Hiking trails connect many of the camping areas, providing opportunities to explore the shoreline. Several reviews mention the quality of fishing opportunities and sunset views. One visitor reported, "Nice view of the water toward Welch Park and the dam. You can get a good view of the sunset and sunrise. Wide view of the lake as it curves around the campground."
