Lake Somerville offers camping experiences across 9,000 acres of land with multiple park units located around the reservoir. The lake sits at approximately 236 feet above sea level with surrounding terrain varying from flat shorelines to gently rolling hills. Winter temperatures typically range from 40-65°F while summer months regularly exceed 90°F, creating distinct seasonal camping conditions.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Lake Somerville State Park features a network of trails connecting both Birch Creek and Nails Creek units. "Trails throughout the park are marked but can be confusing at times. Make sure to bring a map with you," notes a camper from Lake Somerville State Park Birch Creek Unit Campground.
Lake fishing spots: The 11,400-acre reservoir provides multiple fishing access points for anglers. A visitor at Welch Park Somerville Lake shared: "Gorgeous setting, but very crowded. People pull up for the day with no qualms about being in your campsite."
Trail riding: Equestrian enthusiasts can explore designated paths throughout the park system. "The equestrian area looked like it was restored and back-in-business," noted one camper, mentioning that "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."
What campers like
Shaded sites: Many campsites offer tree coverage for protection from the Texas sun. A visitor at Stephen F. Austin State Park Campground shared their experience: "40 FHU sites here under Spanish moss-draped trees. Good spacing between most sites, but no privacy from neighbor sites."
Wildlife viewing: Local fauna frequently visits camping areas throughout the region. Another visitor noted: "Saw lots of deer that came fairly close to us. Nice trails but very busy on weekends as Houstonians escape the city for some country fun!"
Well-maintained facilities: State parks in the area typically offer clean, functional amenities. According to a camper at Lake Somerville State Park: "There are nice hiking trails. The lake views are beautiful. All the campsites appear to be very well kept."
What you should know
Seasonal crowds: Weekends and holidays bring significantly more visitors, especially during summer months. At Lake Bryan Campground, one camper reported: "Felt like I was camping on the infield of a racetrack surrounded by a promenade of cars/trucks playing loud music - will be hard-pressed to ever go back."
Flooding impacts: Weather events can affect trail conditions and site availability. A visitor mentioned: "Sommerville has been wrought with flooding and hogs...both running a 'could be' beautiful landscape. Many of the rails were unusable and those available were ruined with hog wallers."
Service coverage: Cell reception varies significantly throughout the camping areas. 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."
Tips for camping with families
Easy access swimming: Look for designated swimming areas with gradually sloping entries. A visitor at Oak Thicket Park shared: "Enjoyed the hike and bike trail and the swimming hole."
Multi-site camping: Book adjacent sites when traveling with extended family or groups. Another camper mentioned: "Lots of shaded coverage, amazing trails, amazing views."
Supply planning: Limited shopping options exist near most camping areas. 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."
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Not all sites accommodate larger RVs comfortably. A visitor at Brazos Valley RV Park reported: "Very well maintained, clean, nice big spaces and good distance between you and your neighbor. Friendly and helpful owners."
Power management: Sites offer varying amperage options, so check before booking. Another RVer mentioned: "We stayed in site 77 and I really liked the privacy of most campsites. This spot had easy access to the bathrooms and to the trail to the lake."
Leveling requirements: Some sites require significant leveling equipment. As one camper noted: "The site required leveling side-to-side. Quiet campsite. No highway noise. Train whistle in distant."
