The best camping in Lake Somerville State Park, TX
88% (14)
88% (14)
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Lake Somerville State Park adventure.
Top-rated campgrounds in Lake Somerville State Park
Lake Somerville Birch Creek Unit Campground
1. Lake Somerville Birch Creek Unit Campground
94%
(8)
When you camp at Birch Creek, you might not be right on the water -- but you’ll be pretty darn close
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Lake Somerville Nails Creek Unit Campground
2. Lake Somerville Nails Creek Unit Campground
80%
(6)
What are you looking for in a campsite? We ask because chances are Nails Creek has what you’re looking for
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Top-rated campsites near Lake Somerville State Park
Starlove Ranch & Animal Sanctuary
1. Starlove Ranch & Animal Sanctuary
100%
(80)
7mi from Lake Somerville State Park · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
Our 100 acre heritage property has been in the family for over 150 years. Since 2017, we've been operating our land as a Vegan, Regenerative-Agriculture Farm & Animal Sanctuary. We currently have 2 dogs, 3 cats plus a herd of 31 Cows, 4 Potbelly Pigs and 2 Spanish Goats. The cows and pigs are all rescue animals so, where as they are adapted to humans being around them, they are very shy and petting them is not allowed. The dogs, cats and goats, on the other hand, are very friendly and love to be pet and fed treats.
We are located outside of Dime Box, TX and are a 30 minute drive from the quaint, artist village of Round Top, and 12 miles from Lake Somerville SP.
Our property has equal parts rolling pastures and wooded thickets and ravines. There are plenty of nooks and crannies to explore and gorgeous views of the Texas horizons....time your stay just right and you can stand directly between the sunset and the moonrise! We also have a hike-and-bike, nature trail that offers a 360 loop around the property.
We have a new construction Bath House on site for restroom needs w/ hot showers and composting potties plus a cold-water sink w/ non-potable water suited for washing produce, hands, dishes or camping gear.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Jody’s Hideaway
2. Jody’s Hideaway
99%
(48)
15mi from Lake Somerville State Park · 12 sites · Tents, RVs
Very spacious land with 160 acres of hay fields, wooded areas, ponds, gullies, bolder rock garden, and cow pastures. Campers can choose their own primitive camp sites. Pack in pack out, no amenities provided. Oil field roads, and off road trails can be explored by hiking or by OHV. We are not responsible for any damages or injuries so please be mindful. No 4 wheelers, UTV’s, or motorcycles. Pets are welcome but must be under control. Fire wood gathering is allowed for camp fires come and enjoy yourself!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Be the Bee @ Emerald Acres
3. Be the Bee @ Emerald Acres
95%
(33)
30mi from Lake Somerville State Park · 1 site
Learn more about this land:
Come stay at our intentional community homestead 40 mins east of Austin Texas. We have people working and living together to reach our sustainability goals together. Our lotus tent has an epic view of the stocked pond. Enjoy the spaciousness of this 40 acres farm. Check out the gardens, visit the livestock and soak in the salt water jacuzzi!
Just 15 miles you have
Bastrop State Park. It's
towering loblolly pines are unique to this part of Texas. A walk through the park reveals majestic trees that have survived and regrown from the ravages of forest fires—some of which devastated the park and the surrounding community years ago, but in the end revealed the area's resilience and beauty of nature. Located just 32 miles east of Austin near the charming town of Bastrop, this park offers a seasonally open swimming pool, fishing in Lake Mina, and miles of hiking trails
Pets are allowed. Please make sure you pick up after them.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Wild and Boujee Ranch
4. Wild and Boujee Ranch
99%
(72)
31mi from Lake Somerville State Park · 11 sites · Tents, RVs
100 acres on the Colorado river! Great fishing, beautiful blue bonnets (during season) swimming, boating, walking trails, cows and donkeys to watch grazing, bird watching, and plenty more at this one of a kind ranch. Relax and enjoy unobstructed views of the stars. Kids are welcome to enjoy the great outdoors!
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
Secluded Birding on Lone Oak Farm
5. Secluded Birding on Lone Oak Farm
100%
(21)
31mi from Lake Somerville State Park · 3 sites
Lone Oak Farm is on the edge of Texas Hill Country along the Colorado River. Over 80 acres of prairie, forest and farmland, it boasts beautiful sunsets, wildlife viewing and quiet. Access to electricity, water and septic is available if requested in advance or guests can be completely off grid and nestled in the trees. Walk along the river and watch the waterfowl and listen to the birds or sit under our oak tree and catch the rancher at work.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Colorado RiverBend Retreat #CRBR
6. Colorado RiverBend Retreat #CRBR
99%
(291)
31mi from Lake Somerville State Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
This 12acres of wildlife on the Colorado is full of natural beauty! WE HAVE HOT 🥵 SHOWERS 🚿 AND FLUSHING POTTY!
🚨 EXTRAS PURCHASED ONSITE ONLY WOOD ICE ADDITIONAL PPL PETS CAR .
YES WE NOW SELL BAGGED ICE! ASK ON ARRIVAL!!
We're In Smithville Tx Home Of Hope Floats!
5 mins from downtown! Plenty of stores if needed
HOT 🥵 SHOWERS 🚿 AND FLUSHING POTTY!
🚨PSA Please Be Advised🚨
NO EVS ALLOWED ACCESS TO OUR POWER!!!
THERE IS A PET FEE ADD IN EXTRAS TAB
Checkin is AFTER 3/4 BUT BEFORE 8p We're Asleep By 8p As We Rise By 3:30a Every Morning! If you've ordered extras please be sure 2 checkin inside the window 2 receive them! Otherwise you will have 2 request them the following morning.
This Is The Country Where Folks Do Hunt/Shoot!! Although Your Completely Safe, You MAY Or May NOT Hear Gun Shots!! If You Have A FurBaby That Is Panicked/ Stressed From Fireworks Popping/Or Gunfire (AS I DO) It MayB Best 2 Leave Them Home,, 2 Prevent Any Uncomfortable Anxieties PLEASE NOTE (TP) CAN B PURCHASED BUT IS NO LONGER PROVIDED AS WELL AS TOWEL BUNDLES.
🚨 We CAN NOT Control Mother Nature Guys!🚨 When Travis Co. Opens The Gates On Us Little Guys Down River! (which makes 4 the BEST fishing BTW #MonsterCats) It'll Inevitably Flush The River Stirring Up The Sandy Bottom. When that happens the SandBar Is NonExistant As The Rising waters Cover it. Hipcamp now offers a weather insurance that U may want 2 add 2 UR booking just Incase Mother Nature decides 2 smack us around
PLEASE BE MINDFUL THE PRIVATE DOCK IS THE RIVERRAT SHACK BNB GUESTS' RIVER ACCESS! Please B respectful/courteous 2 All Guests/ campsite's/individual spaces!
📢 PSA Reading The Shower Instructions Is Best Done B4 Entering The Shower!! Always turn the hot on 1st do not add any cold until it's All The Way HOT 🥵
🚨 RVs must be added in extras tab and ONLY allowed @ Site3 w/ Permissions
📣Attention Campervan's 📣
A Campervan is a type of RV; RVs Are Only Allowed @ Campsite 3 As To Not Block The River Views 4rm Other Camper's. If You Have A Campervan; Want 2 Be @ A Bank Site. You'll Need 2 Get Permissions Frm The Host 1st,
B4 Booking!! 🙏
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Forest View Small RV Camping
7. Forest View Small RV Camping
96%
(13)
35mi from Lake Somerville State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Fits RVs up to 26 feet long. The site is surrounded by pine trees that provide plenty of shade. Rooftop tents welcome!
Mobile phones work well here. Strong signal.
Forest View RV Parking is located on a hard-packed gravel road with no outlet. The property sits in a pine forest with some oaks and includes a two-acre lake that’s great for swimming. Bastrop and Buescher State Parks are nearby and easily accessible via back roads.
Both Downtown Bastrop and Downtown Smithville are just a ten-minute drive away.
Car camping is also possible at this spot, though the tenting area is on a slight incline.
The bathroom and shower facilities are a three-minute walk, located on the other side of the property. With a surveyor's wheel, the rest rooms are a 639 feet walk through the forest.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Sandhill Farms Tent Camping
8. Sandhill Farms Tent Camping
95%
(11)
35mi from Lake Somerville State Park · 1 site
Learn more about this land:
Come enjoy the serenity of central Texas where the loudest noises are the coyotes in the distance, the cicadas at night, the occasional bird or cow calling their friends. We have serene rolling pastures and amazing areas to watch the sunset, the birds, or a few deer (if the weather is right and you are quiet enough). We also have cows, horses, and the cutest donkey you have ever seen.
Pets
The Reserve at GreenLeaf
9. The Reserve at GreenLeaf
97%
(19)
37mi from Lake Somerville State Park · 4 sites
The Reserve at Greenleaf is a perpetual Conservation Property. Meaning that, limiting development, it may never be subdivided or sold into separate parcels. The original intent of the owners is to preserve within an expansive area the natural beauty of this area. The owners, being the 5th, generation born in Bastrop County, their desire is to create a place for their children, grandchildren and generations to come, in a virtually undisturbed natural expanse of their birthplace and appreciate the things they cherish about the land, family and community. Now we invite you to experience that same love and appreciation of this land as guest here at The Reserve at GreenLeaf.Located just outside of Historic Bastrop Texas means you can be at some of the most unique shopping and dining in central Texas in less than 10 minutes. It also is convenient to Lake Bastrop, and the Colorado River where you can enjoy our Kayak rentals and everything to do with water, nature’s way!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
JFF Ranch
10. JFF Ranch
100%
(12)
37mi from Lake Somerville State Park · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
We are located on 12 wooded acres. We have goats, sheep, pigs, chickens, and, of course, our dogs and cats.
We are located approximately 12 miles from Buescher/Bastrop State Park and approximately 15 miles from Rocky Hill Ranch, a mountain bike ranch. There is kayak rental available in both Smithville and Bastrop, where you can kayak down the Colorado River.
Smithville has some unique, local restaurants or you can grill at your campsite on the gas grill provided.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
Eden East Farm
11. Eden East Farm
100%
(37)
38mi from Lake Somerville State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Experience the Magic of Our Urban Farm Retreat
Welcome to Eden East Farm -a five-acre working farm & gathering space just steps from downtown Bastrop. Rooted in deep agricultural history, this lush urban oasis is where the rhythm of nature meets the warmth of community.
Pitch your tent beneath the dappled shade of century-old pecan trees or nestle closer to the heartbeat of the farm, where compost turns to rich soil, vegetables thrive & life grows in every direction. Here, we grow over 40 varieties of hyper-seasonal produce... vibrant heirloom carrots, sweet peppers, okra, tomatoes, squash & more. Using you guessed it! Sustainable & regenerative practices.
Guests are invited to roam freely, visit our chickens & ducks, and soak up the real workings of farm life. You’ll likely see our farmer tending beds or our chef harvesting for lunch & dinner service, because this is more than a place to stay, it’s a living, breathing experience.
Fresh water are available year-round. Port-o-potties are provided during the spring & fall seasons when we host more guests and events.
AND while the farm feels like a peaceful hideaway, you're just one mile from Store House Eatery, our farm-to-table restaurant offering elegant dinners Wednesday through Sunday + lunch & brunch Wednesday through Sundays. All inspired by what’s growing right here.
Our on-site Farm Stand is open Wednesday & Saturday mornings from 9 to 1, where you can grab seasonal produce, house-made goods, and a taste of what’s to come. Keep an eye out for farm pop ups all year round!
Whether you’re here to unplug, connect with the land or enjoy a hyper-local meal under the stars, we invite you to slow down, dig in, and make yourself at home.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
The Magnolia
12. The Magnolia
98%
(75)
40mi from Lake Somerville State Park · 1 site
A peaceful campsite in the country. Our campsite is on a private 1 acre section near our residence. You can enjoy watching the wildlife or stargazing at night. On site, you will have a cozy bed, hammock swings, outdoor shower, fire pit with grill, and an outhouse. Access to the nearby creek is just minutes away.
The Magnolia is a great place to escape from the city. Some of the wildlife you may see or hear are cows, squirrels, rabbits, owls, coyotes and our free range chickens. We do ask that you give us a heads up if you plan to brings dogs so we can keep them in their coop for the day.
Enjoy the stars from the hammock swings or lay a blanket out in the grass. We also allow tent camping for extra people beyond our 2 person limit for the building itself.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Matt B.’s Land Treehouse!!
13. Matt B.’s Land Treehouse!!
97%
(229)
40mi from Lake Somerville State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
This is our family farm, though you probably will not see us much. The campsite is located on a corner of the property on Cummins Creek and once you get there you will feel secluded in nature. Matt grew up here swimming, fishing and exploring in this creek...the creek has taught him more about life than anyone ever could. I hope that you too can understand why we always walk alway feeling like this is a very special spot! Enjoy pizza oven, grill, fire pit, picnic table, swimming, fishing, exploring and knowing your party is the only ones to be seen.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
3C Farm Rural Getaway
14. 3C Farm Rural Getaway
100%
(26)
42mi from Lake Somerville State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
Welcome to our farm! We have plenty of animals to interact with, including dwarf goats, miniature cows and donkeys, potbelly pigs, turkeys/chickens/ducks, and even two emu! Bring a tent and come lay out under the stars next to a nice, warm fire pit.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
5D RANCH
15. 5D RANCH
99%
(3058)
43mi from Lake Somerville State Park · 24 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to 5D Ranch in Navasota, TX. We’re located 60 miles North of Houston and just 2.5 hours from Austin. We have over 14 miles of trails, 2 fishing ponds, 4 boats that are free to use, and great views of the night sky. With 24 unique campsites, we’re sure to have one that fits your needs! We also can provide rentals of camping essentials, a S'mores package and we offer a meet the ponies session that can be scheduled upon your arrival. We can’t wait to host you! Don't forget to ask us about our farm fresh eggs!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Happy Horse Camp & RV Getaway
16. Happy Horse Camp & RV Getaway
100%
(943)
44mi from Lake Somerville State Park · 13 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
GET AWAY without going FAR AWAY! Feels like the middle of nowhere, but it's only 25 miles to downtown Austin and 15 miles to the charming little town of Bastrop with its eateries, shops and historic buildings. Spend quiet nights in the country listening to the coyotes howl and the owls hoot. Hike the nearby Roughs (trailhead is 2 miles away) or book a river canoe or kayak trip with one of the local outfitters. Bring the family and have a weekend event under the trees and covered shade of our Pony Pavilion!
Hollis and her wonderful voice, great stories and powerful ukuleles now offer LIVE MUSIC by your very own campfire, for your private enjoyment. (See the EXTRAS category to book a $20/45 minute/weather-permitting show, or a 1-hour Ukulele lesson, or just get with Hollis when you show up at camp) Enjoy the park trails, the Happy Horse on-site Scavenger Hunt, the delightful maze of campground trails (on your bikes!) and the peace and quiet!
Happy Horse Hotel is on 22 acres conveniently located between Austin and Bastrop in the Pope Bend of the Colorado River. LCRA's fabulous McKinney Roughs Nature Park is 2 miles up the road, adjacent to the Hyatt Lost Pines Resort.
The camp area is 9 secluded, fenced and wooded acres laced with all-dirt flat biking and walking trails on our property. We encourage you to bring your bicycles along. The bird watching is great!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Briers Ranch Primitive Camping
17. Briers Ranch Primitive Camping
98%
(210)
44mi from Lake Somerville State Park · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
Briers Primitive Camping is about a half-mile thru two pastures off of FM 244. Some pasture, some woods, creek, gullies--lots to explore.
Learn more about this land:
Pitch your tent in a field or deep in the woods. Explore pasture, brushy areas, gullies, washouts, creek bed. Practice orienteering. Hike in the woods. Cut firewood and build a fire. Primitive camping for Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, or others who just want to get away for a night, a weekend, or longer.
This IS a working ranch, so you may encounter cows—gentle and sometimes curious.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
Texas Music River Ranch Events CTR
18. Texas Music River Ranch Events CTR
90%
(598)
47mi from Lake Somerville State Park · 18 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
The Texas Music River Ranch is 111 acres located in the quaint village of Webberville, Texas, only 20 miles east of downtown Austin. The large oak and pecan trees amid the rolling green hills of this gorgeous ranch land are nestled on the banks of the lazy Colorado River.
Swim, kayak, or canoe...but there’s no better way to beat the legendary Texas heat than by grabbing an inner tube and enjoying a calm, steady float along a river known for an abundance of fossils and its wildlife. Bring your own tubes, kayaks and canoes, we are currently replenishing our inventory.
Or perhaps you prefer to fish the shady tree-lined banks. Either way, you'll see a variety of birds while you relax on or beside the cool waters of the Colorado River.
We're kid and dog friendly (leashes mandatory) and we love musicians. Bring an instrument and join us for an impromptu jam session in our special events room or around the campfire. Cook dinner on our BBQ pit. Firewood is available onsite
A few rules...
1. Check in is before sunset. We ask that all Hipcampers wait at gate for staff to guide you to your location for safety reasons. Contact us if you arrive ahead of schedule.
2. No wondering by the upper level cabins (these are private property). Showers are behind these cabins. Please respect staff spaces.
3. If you have an extra vehicle, please park it with your other vehicle.
4. If you have a 3rd extra vehicle, let us know and we will direct you where to park it.
5. Please be courteous of other campers space and road access.
6. All kids are free. If your kids are 17 and under do not add them or it will charge.
7. If you have an impairment please let us know before booking so that we can ensure a space is ready and suitable for you.
8. All dogs must be on leash. Please clean up your dogs Poop.
If you have any questions or concerns, contact our Office phone @ (512) 884-4345
Office Hours: Monday-Saturday 9am-9pm, Sunday 11am-6pm
We look forward to making your acquaintance and sharing our little piece of Central Texas heaven with you, your family, and your friends.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
River Ruff Resort
19. River Ruff Resort
98%
(86)
48mi from Lake Somerville State Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Tent camp site close to the river can accommodate up to two tents. Water and electric close by. Outside shower and toilet at the laundry shed at the top of the bank. The river decks are shared with other residents and visitors. Kayaks, paddleboards, and 2 canoes are available for rent. You can fish, swim (at your own risk), grill and chill. You'll see other canoes and kayaks floating the Colorado River. Please ask before hanging hammocks on the deck (depends on other guests using deck).
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
River Forest Haven
20. River Forest Haven
95%
(534)
48mi from Lake Somerville State Park · 36 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
River Forest Haven is a unique space that seeks to bring you closer to nature. We do not artificially light the camp and we strive to leave as much of the property in its natural state as we can. This provides a unique experience that is not your typical campground as we keep all of our campsites tucked under lush natural canopies. Car and tent camping works great! For most sites, you can easily drive up to your spot. Arrive, take a look around and settle into your site. We are always happy to deliver any of our items from our general store- just message us on HipCamp and we will come by.
With nearly half a mile of Colorado riverfront to swim, fish, toob, paddle-board, kayak, and canoe*, along with 30 acres to hike and explore, River Forest Haven is also a quick 20-minute drive from downtown Austin.THINGS OF NOTE: ⁃ cell phone service is mostly non-existent ⁃ firewood can be brought or bought, but not collected.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
M
Marie
2 weeks ago
Tent
Group trip
Due to a recent storm right before our say, a tree was down so we got shifted to site 15. But none the less the trip was wonderful. The host were always available and were friendly, the camp dog was a bonus and was also super friendly. Both bathrooms (one port-o-john, and one full felicity) were kept stocked and clean.
The river was nice a cool, though the camp site is fully shaded, the river is not so bring plenty of sunscreen. Overall the day was enjoyable, and we look forward to coming back.
Only feedback from our group was we used the “get directions” on the app and it took us to the other side of the river on “water drive” the actual address is posted in the description.
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G
Gino
2 weeks ago
Tent
One of my Favorite Campsites ever and The Host Family out do the Campsite. Everytime this Salty Dog needs some Fresh Hill Country Air , There’s No place better.
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E
Eric
2 weeks ago
Tent
Our four-night stay at Site 19 was honestly one of the most peaceful and refreshing experiences we’ve had in a long time. The scenery was absolutely beautiful — quiet mornings, incredible sunsets, and a level of serenity that’s hard to find anywhere else. The site itself felt private, spacious, and perfectly tucked into nature without feeling isolated.
Every night around the campfire felt relaxing and memorable, and the atmosphere throughout the ranch was calm, welcoming, and incredibly well-kept. Whether we were fishing, hiking, or just sitting outside enjoying the sounds of nature, it felt like the perfect escape from everyday stress.
If you’re looking for a place to truly disconnect, recharge, and enjoy Texas countryside at its best, Site 19 at 5D Ranch is absolutely worth it. We’re already talking about coming back.
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C
Ciarra
2 weeks ago
Tent
Group trip
We got river campsite #5 and it was great! Site was large enough for 3-4 tents and private dock for river access. The area was well kept and clean. The bathrooms and showers were unique and artsy. The site even has a pool if the river is not to your liking :) 10/10 would camp here again
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N
Namrata
2 weeks ago
Tent
With kids
We had a fantastic stay at this campsite! Bridget was a wonderful and very accommodating host who made everything easy from the moment we arrived. Our site was right on the river with a beautiful fire pit and plenty of space to relax. The amenities were great, and the bathrooms were impressively clean. Our kids especially loved kayaking right from the site. Truly a memorable family camping trip!
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Christi
2 weeks ago
Tent
We had a wonderful time. Our host, Bridget, is very friendly and down to Earth. She doesn’t bother you AT ALL, but is prompt to respond to any requests or questions via text (I like that communication method. I also liked that there’s a bath house with hot showers and a flushing toilet literally right by the camp (and it is very clean), well as an electricity outlet. We were literally glamping in a Coleman Mission Tent, I had my fans blowing and all. Ladies who hate roughing it, I was very comfortable. Best thing is it’s right on the water.
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S
Sherri
3 weeks ago
Tent
What a beautiful place !! We loved everything about this location !!! So remote you feel all alone !! It was so remarkable : no bugs and perfect temperatures . We really would recommend !!
Thanks So Much !!
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S
Spencer
3 weeks ago
16 ft car
Gary is a nice guy and great host. I just spent the night, but I enjoyed the stay. Nice peaceful area and property.
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C
Cara
April 2026
Tent
With kids
5D is so close to home yet it feels so remote. This site was very large and surrounded by dense woods so it felt very secluded and private. The trails and sites are well maintained. We spent a great weekend here with friends and the kids loved exploring the trails.
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L
Lee
April 2026
Tent
This is a great location for traveling with horses. Beautiful property and great folks hosting!
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V
Victoria
April 2026
16 ft car
With pets
Loved River Forest Haven! The sites weren't cramped, so felt like we had space without being right next to someone. Great access to the river and the showers were great! Staff was responsive very quickly when texted. Will definitely return!
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E
Erin
April 2026
Tent
With pets
Our group of 7 loved this spot especially the private access to the little dock. The site was well kept and the picnic table was clean. We loved the tree coverage and being able to hang in the shade. We will be back!
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Gwennyth
April 2026
Tent
Group trip
Fantastic camping ground! Hiking trails were great, bathroom was very clean, campsites are spacious. I will definitely be returning!
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A
Adrian
April 2026
Tent
With kids
I had a great experience at this campsite for second time. The area was clean, well-maintained, and felt safe the entire time. The sites were spaced out enough to give some privacy, which made it really relaxing. I especially liked how quiet it was at night—perfect for unwinding and enjoying nature. I’d absolutely come back again.
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J
Jessica
April 2026
29 ft travel trailer
What a lovely site! It was super private and we had the sweetest canine camp host, Shasta. This was a true escape, very peaceful and remote. Our human host, Davey, met us at the site and kindly showed us around as soon as we arrived. Can’t wait to stay again.
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J
Joshua
April 2026
Tent
With pets
Great as always! Will be back! Got to use the pizza oven this time. My son loved it
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D
Darrell
April 2026
Tent
Very nice camp site. It was quiet and peaceful. You have all of the amenities close by.
See moreJ
Joseph
April 2026
Tent
Group trip
What a great experience and beautiful spot. Bridget the host was wonderful. We will be back!
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T
Todd
April 2026
13 ft travel trailer
With pets
This is an awesome place. It was quiet and I was the only one there. I brought my rv and had no issue with the dirt roads. I would stay here again
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A
Atlas
April 2026
Tent
Group trip
Very good site directly on the river basically. Good hospitality.
See moreLake Somerville State Park camping guide
Overview
About
Located between Austin and Houston, the 11,630-acre Lake Somerville is a hot spot for water activities. Visitors can access the lake for swimming, paddling, boating, and fishing from Birch Creek unit and Nails Creek unit, connected by the 13-mile Lake Somerville Trailway. The Somerville Public Hunting Land forms the fourth unit of the park. More than 40 miles of mixed-used hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails surround nearly 150 campsites, including hike-in, primitive camping sites, group camping sites, tent camping sites, RV sites with 30-amp or 50-amp and water hookups, and equestrian sites.
Notable campgrounds
- Best for water access: The Cedar Elm camping area at Birch Creek is the closest to the boat ramp and fishing pier, and also offers easy access to the family fishing pond.
- Best for equestrians: Twenty sites in the Bent Tree area of Nails Creek feature horse pens, water and electric hookups, picnic tables, and fire rings.
- Best to escape the crowds: There are 18 hike-in sites in the Lake Somerville Trailway that require a three- to 10-mile hike-in.
Tips for snagging a campsite
- Make plans to reserve a site as soon as you know your dates. Campsites can be reserved up to five months in advance.
- If your plans are flexible, try to visit during the week, during non-holiday periods, or in winter for a quieter experience.
- Hikers traveling light can take advantage of the 18 hike-in sites that are available on a first-come first-served basis.
When to go
Peak season runs from March to November, and the park is at its busiest from the first weekend of March through the Fourth of July. Spring is known for wildflowers, the seasonal spawning run, and migrating birds. Flag Pond is a wetland habitat for waterfowl in winter, when weekly winter rates are available for campers.
Know before you go
- The two main areas of the park, Birch Creek and Nails Creek, are on different sides of the lake, 13 miles apart.
- Both Birch Creek and Nails Creek rent canoes and kayaks, while Birch Creek also rents horseshoes.
- Bring your binoculars for birdwatching, as more than 200 species have been spotted here.
- Campfires are only permitted inside fire rings. Gathering of firewood is prohibited.
- Fishing licenses are not required if fishing from shore, though they are required if fishing from a boat. Fishing gear loans are available.
- Flag Pond offers excellent wildlife viewing, but during hunting season, hunters are active at the pond until noon.
Reviews for Lake Somerville State Park Campgrounds
88%
14 ratings · 5 reviews
Recommends
· November 2025
Chill hidden gem.
30 ft travel trailer · With pets · With kids ·
Lake Somerville Birch Creek Unit Campground
Love this park. It’s a close drive from houston where we live. Small town country living out in Somerville. Clean and well operated state park. We like to camp right by the lake and do kayaking trips over to the island.
Great hiking trails!! Or bike trails.
B
Brooke B.
11 reviews
We absolutely LOVE Lake Somerville Birch Creek. Sandy soil, so the swimming is much more beachy feeling rather than the typical squishy you get in a lake. Love the RV sites in Old Hickory loop...most are very shaded and private. This is our ol' faithful when looking for a quick getaway! Enjoy our stay every time!!
M
Melanie D.
3 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· February 2018
Rainfall will effect the water levels and make trails either inaccessible or very far from the lake.
R
Renee I.
8 years on Hipcamp
Not recommend
· January 2018
Loud neighbors, rabid racoons.
B
Ben S.
6 reviews
Recommends
· November 2017
Great time to see deer over Thankgiving Break and low park attendance makes it feel more secluded.
K
Kelsie L.
8 years on Hipcamp
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