Guests on the sandbar beach with blue umbrellas, camp chairs, and coolers, with boats anchored offshore.

Family

A Family-Friendly Weekend at Lake Somerville: A Simple Plan

The best family trips have a loose plan and plenty of room to wander. Overlook Park & Marina has 138 acres, two miles of lake frontage, and three calm coves, so there is a lot to do without much driving. Here is a simple weekend you can follow or change as you like.

Weekends have a 2-night minimum, so a Friday-to-Sunday stay fits well. Check-in is 3:00 PM and check-out is 11:00 AM.

Friday: arrive and settle in

Check in, set up the cabin or camp, and let the kids look around. Walk down to the water before dinner. The lake is calmer in the evening, and it is a good first look at the shoreline.

If you are camping, grab firewood ($6.50 a bundle) and ice ($3) at the marina store on your way in. Our fall hours are Sunday through Wednesday 6am to 6pm and Thursday through Saturday 6am to 10pm. Call (979) 289-2321 if you are not sure about your arrival time.

Cook something easy. Then a campfire: fire rings only, and someone stays with the fire until it is out. Stars and quiet follow. Quiet hours start at 10pm.

Saturday: the beach, the playground, and the carts

Morning. Start with breakfast and head to the sandbar beach. Bring umbrellas, chairs, and a cooler. The shallows are good for splashing, and everyone should have a life jacket if they will be near the water. Kids who are still learning will be safer in one.

Midday. Take a break from the sun. The playground sits among the oaks, with shade nearby. It is a good place for a snack and a rest.

Afternoon. Rent a golf cart for the day ($50, or $75 on holiday weekends). It seats four and is the easiest way to see the park, especially for little legs. Or paddle: kayaks, canoes and paddle boards are $50 a day each. Stay close to the shoreline with beginners.

Evening. Watch the sunset from the shoreline or a cabin deck. Texas sunsets are a big part of why people come back.

Sunday: slow morning, easy goodbye

Make coffee, take one more walk by the water, and pack up. Check-out is 11:00 AM. If your kids want one more cast, the bank and dock are good places to try fishing without a boat. Our fishing guide has tips.

Details that make it easier

  • Where to stay. Cabins A through E sleep up to six and have a kitchenette. RV and tent sites work well for families who like to camp. See cabins and stays.
  • Pets. Pets are welcome for $10 per pet per night, up to two. Keep them leashed. Our dog-friendly guide has more.
  • Extra guests. Extra guests are $10 each. Visitors need a day-use pass and leave by 10pm.
  • Map. The park map shows the playground, pavilion, beach, and restrooms.
  • Rules. Wristbands are required on property, and each vehicle needs a parking tag. Read the park policies.

FAQ

What is the minimum stay?

Weekends are a 2-night minimum. Holidays are a 3-night minimum.

Do you rent golf carts?

Yes. A 4-seat golf cart is $50 a day, or $75 on holiday weekends.

Can we have a campfire?

Yes, in fire rings only, and the fire must stay attended.

Should kids wear life jackets?

We encourage life jackets for kids and anyone who is not a confident swimmer. Bring your own, or look through the marina store. Check the park policies for current rules.

Start planning on Plan Your Visit or book your stay.

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