Immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of Nails Creek Horse Camp, nestled within the breathtaking landscape of Somerville Lake. As part of the Lake Somerville State Park Complex, this recreation area offers a myriad of outdoor adventures and natural wonders waiting to be explored.
Abundant Trails and Outdoor Escapades
Encompassing the west end of the reservoir, the Lake Somerville Trailway beckons adventure enthusiasts with 13 miles of trails. These trails cater to a variety of pursuits including hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, backpacking, birdwatching, and nature study. Revel in the scenic wonders, vibrant birdlife, and diverse flora and fauna that make this Trailway a haven for nature enthusiasts.
Flag Pond: A Haven for Wildlife
Approximately 4 miles from Nails Creek State Park, Flag Pond stands as an oasis for waterfowl hunting and non-consumptive wildlife viewing. The site boasts a network of interpretive trails, outdoor classrooms, and wildlife photography spots. The Flag Pond Nature Theater, offering an excellent wildlife-viewing platform, sets the stage for remarkable encounters with the region's diverse fauna.
Preserving Nature's Legacy
The management objective of the Lake Somerville State Park Complex is rooted in nurturing wintering waterfowl and enhancing the food supply to prepare these avian visitors for their migration to spring nesting grounds. The region's commitment to conservation creates an environment conducive to wildlife welfare and fosters the natural splendor of the area.
Historical Context and Scenic Diversity
The Lake Somerville State Park Complex comprises four distinct units: Birch Creek, Nails Creek, Lake Somerville Trailway, and the Somerville Wildlife Management Area. Each unit offers a unique slice of the area's charm and allure. Birch Creek, spanning 2,365 acres in Burleson County on the north shore, contrasts with Nails Creek, a 3,155-acre haven in Lee County, adorning the reservoir's serene south shore. The 13-mile trailway seamlessly connects these two units, inviting visitors to traverse the landscape and explore its diverse facets. Additionally, the Somerville Wildlife Management Area, spanning 3,180 acres, embodies the Yegua Creek Compartment in southwest Burleson County and the Nails Creek Compartment in northeast Lee County.
A Tapestry of Natural Splendor Awaits
Nails Creek Horse Camp, nestled within the vibrant canvas of Somerville Lake, invites visitors to embrace the tranquility of the outdoors. Whether traversing the scenic trails, observing wildlife, or delving into the area's rich history, this haven promises an unforgettable rendezvous with nature's bountiful offerings.
Directions:
From Houston take Highway 290 west to Burton (go through Brenham). Exit at Spur 125. Stay on 125. Turn left on FM 1697. Stay on FM 1697 to FM 180. Turn right on FM 180 to the park. From Austin take Highway 290 East to about six miles east of Giddings. Turn left on FM 180 to the park.
Nails Creek Horse Camp offers the following facilities and amenities:
- Picnic table
- Fire ring
- Water nearby
- Lantern post
- Sites 1-10 in Equestrian Camping Area
- Horse corrals & hitching posts in the area
- Equestrian trails
- Showers
- Parking space
- Restrooms
Cost Details:
- $12 Nightly (Plus daily entrance fee)
- $72 Weekly (Non-peak)
Notes:
- Information and prices can change. Parks charge a daily entrance fee in addition to any facility fees, unless otherwise stated.
- Purchase a Texas State Park Pass to enjoy free entry to more than 80 state parks for you and your guests for one year.
- You may bring pets to most state parks, but they cannot enter Texas State Park buildings. Learn about rules for pets at state parks. For park-specific pet restrictions, contact the park.
- Call the park or the Customer Service Center (512) 389-8900 for more information.
If you want to discover and explore other campsites and horse trails, here are some of them that you may visit:
LAKE SOMERVILLE STATE PARKS & TRAILWAY - Lake Somerville Trailway to Flag Pond
LAKE SOMERVILLE STATE PARKS & TRAILWAY - Wolf Pond Primitive Site
LAKE SOMERVILLE STATE PARKS & TRAILWAY - Lake Somerville Trail
GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK - Twentymile Loop Trail
Nails Creek Horse Camp does require reservations for overnight accommodations. Please visit their page here on Top Horse Trails - Nails Creek Horse Camp for more information.