Best Campgrounds near Somerville, TX
Lake Somerville serves as the centerpiece for camping in the Somerville, Texas area, with multiple state park units and Corps of Engineers campgrounds surrounding its shores. Lake Somerville State Park features two distinct units—Birch Creek and Nails Creek—offering developed camping with water and electric hookups, shaded sites, and access to hiking trails. The Rocky Creek and Yegua Creek campgrounds, managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, provide additional camping options with spacious sites and lake views. Most campgrounds accommodate both tent and RV camping, with some areas featuring equestrian sites complete with corrals for horses. Several campgrounds also offer primitive hike-in sites for those seeking more seclusion, particularly along the Lake Somerville Trailway that connects the state park units.
Reservations are strongly recommended for weekend camping, especially during spring and fall when temperatures are most comfortable. As one camper noted, "Like a lot of east-Texas camping areas, LSSP was devastated by Hurricane Harvey and is still recovering, but don't let that stop you." Summer brings intense heat and humidity with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F, along with increased insect activity. "Typically, gnats were really bad at night, but mosquitos were tolerable. Just be prepared and you'll be fine," shared one visitor. Cell service varies throughout the area, with T-Mobile users reporting fluctuating 4G/5G coverage. Most campgrounds have gates that close at night, typically around 10 PM, allowing campers to exit but not re-enter until morning.
Wildlife viewing opportunities abound throughout the area's campgrounds. "Tons of deer wandering around every evening," reported one camper at Rocky Creek. Coyotes are frequently heard howling at night, particularly around the Nails Creek Unit. Birdwatchers can spot great blue herons, cardinals, chickadees, and various waterfowl including pelicans along the shoreline. The lake itself offers excellent fishing, boating, and kayaking opportunities, with some campgrounds providing boat ramps and equipment rentals. Hiking trails connect various parts of the lake, though some visitors note they "are numerous, but not well marked." The distance between the Birch Creek and Nails Creek units requires about 15 minutes of driving time despite being visible across the lake from each other.
