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Backpacking Lake Somerville State Park
For an introductory backpacking experience, head to Lake Somerville State Park and hike the Lake Somerville Trailway, 13 mile hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and nature study trail that links the Birch Creek Unit with the Nails Creek Unit.
Lake Somerville is located northwest of Brenham in Lee and Burleson Counties and is comprised of multiple units that offer camping, fishing, picnic pavilions, restrooms, park store, boat ramps, multi-use trails, wildlife viewing, and RV hookups.
Located around the west end of the reservoir is the Lake Somerville Trailway, which can be hiked in one long day or split into two with an overnight stay camping. There is a system of interpretive trails, nature study, outdoor classrooms, and wildlife photography along the trail along with the Flag Pond Nature Theater. Campgrounds at Lake Somerville State Park are located along the trailway for both backpackers and equestrians. Well water for horses is available at Newman Bottom and Wolf Pond and chemical toilets are in the area along the trail.
The Somerville Trailway passes through stands of yaupon, post oak, blackjack oak, hickory, and water oak forests; and is deemed one of the best spring wildflower trails in the Texas State Park System. The wildlife in the area includes white-tailed deer, raccoon, rabbit, fox, coyote, waterfowl, and quail. There are poisonous snakes in the park so watch your step at all times and look before sitting on a nice comfortable log. Expect to see white bass, crappie, largemouth bass, and catfish when fishing.
Entrance fees are $3 per day, per person 13 and older unless you purchased a Texas State Parks Pass. The pass gets you and your family into the park free of charge. Check the Lake Somerville State Park website for camping fees for each of the units.
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