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Somerville Lake Recreation Area adventures

Somerville Lake Recreation Area Adventures

Somerville Lake Recreation Area offers diverse outdoor activities centered around the 11,592-acre reservoir, including fishing, boating, hiking, and camping amid East Texas’ rolling terrain.

11,592 (lake surface)
Acres Protected
Approximately 9
Miles of Trails
Over 200,000
Annual Visitors
1967
Year Established

About Somerville Lake Recreation Area

 

Located in Burleson County, Texas, Somerville Lake Recreation Area is a popular flood control and water supply reservoir managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The area spans over 11,500 acres of water and surrounding land, featuring mixed hardwood and pine forest typical of East Texas. The lake was completed in 1967 and provides a critical resource for the region, while also serving as a hub for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can explore several hiking and biking trails that weave through pine and hardwood groves, offering tranquil views and wildlife sightings such as white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and various songbirds. Anglers can fish for largemouth bass, catfish, and crappie, benefiting from boat ramps and fishing piers around the lake. Several campgrounds provide families and groups with developed sites, some featuring picnic areas, playgrounds, and restrooms. Seasonal bird migrations attract bird watchers, and the lake’s calm waters invite canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Somerville Lake Recreation Area’s quiet environment and natural setting make it a favored spot for day use as well as weekend retreats. The proximity to Bryan-College Station and College Station cities provides convenient access for urban populations seeking nature escapes. Overall, the area balances water management needs with recreational opportunities, catering to anglers, campers, hikers, and boaters year-round.

Highlights

Highlight

Somerville Lake Boat Ramps providing excellent water access

Highlight

Diverse fishing opportunities including largemouth bass and catfish

Highlight

Pine Ridge Campground with shaded sites and lake views

Highlight

Multiple multi-use hiking and biking trails around the reservoir

Notable Natural Features

Somerville Lake

An 11,592-acre reservoir formed by damming the Yegua Creek, supporting flood control, water supply, and extensive recreational opportunities.

Pine Ridge Campground

A developed campground with shaded sites, restrooms, picnic areas, and proximity to hiking trails and the lake shore.

Multi-Use Trail System

A network of approximately 9 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding winding through East Texas forest.