Wellborn, Texas offers numerous camping options within a short drive of this small community located just southwest of College Station and Bryan. The area sits at an elevation of approximately 330 feet in the Post Oak Savannah ecoregion of east-central Texas. Winter temperatures typically stay mild with lows rarely dropping below freezing, making it possible to camp year-round with proper preparation for occasional cold fronts.
What to do
Mountain biking at Lake Bryan Campground: The area features approximately 20 miles of trails through wooded terrain with well-marked signage. A camper noted, "The park has nice walking/running/biking trails. Several local triathletes train in open water here as well."
Fishing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds provide lake access for anglers. At Lake Somerville State Park Birch Creek Unit Campground, one visitor shared their experience: "My husband and friend attempted to fish on the lakeshore but were unsuccessful. The trail system is apparently expansive, but had been closed while were there due to some flooding."
Wildlife observation: The diverse ecosystem supports various wildlife viewing opportunities. At Lake Somerville State Park, a camper reported, "Good amount of wildlife. Equestrian area looked like it was restored and back-in-business."
Hiking trails: Several parks offer hiking paths of varying difficulty. At Lake Somerville, a visitor commented, "We went on several long hikes. Lake was great...but pretty chilly most of the time we were there."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the spacing at certain campgrounds near Wellborn. At Lake Somerville State Park, one reviewer mentioned, "I really liked the privacy of most campsites. This spot had easy access to the bathrooms and to the trail to the lake."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and shower facilities rank high among camper priorities. A visitor to Hidden Creek RV Resort shared, "Beautiful and well-maintained campsite. We have been to this RV Resort a few times and have NEVER been disappointed. They literally have thought of everything from daily trash pick-up to refilling propane tanks."
Convenient locations: The proximity to College Station and Bryan makes these campsites popular. At Timber Ridge RV Park, a camper noted, "We were just staying overnight, found the campground super clean with nice level concrete pads. No need to unhook! Front office staff are extremely nice and helpful!"
Shade coverage: In the Texas heat, shaded sites are highly valued. At Lake Somerville, one camper stated, "We stayed in old hickory loop. Lots of trees and plenty of shade. Short trip from Houston so we will definitely be going back!"
What you should know
Seasonal flooding impacts: Heavy rains can affect trail and campsite conditions. A camper at Lake Somerville 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."
Limited amenities at some locations: Not all campsites near Wellborn offer full facilities. At Holiday RV Park, one visitor mentioned, "Great location to stay while paying my daughter a visit while at school. Not easy to get around from there based on the construction and how the roads work."
Cell service variability: Connectivity differs between campgrounds. At Lake Somerville, a recent visitor reported, "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."
Campsite reservations: Many campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons. A camper at Holiday RV Park cautioned, "The listed number for reservations goes to a different park, same name."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming areas: Some campgrounds feature designated swimming spots. At Lake Somerville, a camper noted, "Nice quite little camp ground with easy lake swimming area. Good time."
Spacious sites for play: Families need room for activities. A visitor to Lake Bryan Campground shared, "Great get away. Not a lot of hiking trains but clean with good beach and huge grassy areas for kids and camp fires."
Kid-friendly amenities: Some parks offer special features for children. At Hardy's Resort RV Park, a camper mentioned, "The staff had a game night party and did smores for the kids(okay so I had one too) and sausage wraps for everyone. Beautiful park, it had 2 ponds and a large grassy area with a gazebo for hanging out, and the cutest miniature life size chess set."
Proximity to supplies: Family camping requires access to necessities. A visitor to Lake Somerville 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 levelness varies: Not all RV sites are equally level. A visitor to Lake Somerville recommended, "Well spaced spots. Fairly level pads with table, fire ring, 30/50 amp electrical, water."
Concrete pad availability: Some parks offer more stable parking surfaces. At Timber Ridge RV Park, an RVer shared, "Found the campground super clean with nice level concrete pads. No need to unhook!"
Sewer connections: Not all parks offer full hookups. At Karstens RV Resort, a camper noted, "I like to stay at Karstens RV Resort. Its full of facilities. Its clean and very attractive place. Their charges are also lower than others and best facilities than other RV parks."
Utility post placement: Some sites require careful positioning. As one RVer at Timber Ridge noted, "Spots were nice and level, however, dump hoses slightly uphill on several sites. Need to park as far back as possible to reach utility post."