Lake Somerville Birch Creek Unit Campground

Biking

If you’re looking for a relaxing ride, this park is for you. The Somerville trail system connects two large areas of the park—Birch Creek and Nails Creek—with more than 20 miles of mild curves and slopes, and an especially beautiful section that runs right along Flag Pond.

Boating

Lake Somerville State Park is large, in charge, and ready for your barge. Set off from one of two ramps and enjoy the excellent fishing or birding offered in this area. Take a quick break on Picnic Hill and, by the time lunch is done, the views of the lake will have you hungry for more.

Fishing

Come on down, find your spot, and put in a line at Lake Somerville State Park. The bass and catfish are waiting to greet you! In fact, in 2009, a lake record was set by an angler who caught a 13.6-pound bass in these waters. And if you don’t have room to pack your own gear, you can always rent it through the Tackle Loaner Program.

Hiking

The entire trail system at this park is worth a visit, but there are a few places you just shouldn’t miss. The Cedar Creek Loop is the perfect place for an encounter with the local wildlife, and Sunset Trail is, a great place to end the afternoon. And the Honeybee Hill Trail is easily wheelchair accessible, so be sure to check it out!

Horseback riding

If you don’t have your own horse, you can rent one at a nearby park. Once you’re saddled up, more than 20 miles of the trail way at Lake Somerville State Park are all yours. Gerdes Spur is a quiet, private trail that runs along an old ranch road. At an hour and a half long, this will fit nicely into your day and still leave room for hammock time back at one of the park’s horse-ready campsites.

Paddling

You can rent kayaks and canoes at the Birch Creek and Nails Creek units of the park, and then take them right out into the wide open lake. For a more secluded trip, take the 5-mile journey down Yegua Creek. With over 11,000 acres of surface area to paddle through, you’d better tell everyone you’ll be late for the campfire dinner.

Swimming

Known for offering quiet and secluded encounters with nature, Lake Somerville State Park is ideal for a late afternoon dip. A swim by the shore is a great way to catch a brilliant sunset over these gentle hills.

Wildlife watching

Keep your ears and eyes open, because this park is packed with wildlife. Head on over to the Flag Pond Observation Center for top-notch bird watching, or turn your binoculars towards the water to catch a glimpse of the area’s river otters.