Canyon Lake sits at an elevation of approximately 909 feet above sea level in the Texas Hill Country, with lake depths reaching up to 125 feet in certain areas. The camping season extends year-round with summer temperatures often exceeding 90°F, while winter nights can drop into the 40s. Campgrounds surrounding Canyon Lake maintain water access points that fluctuate seasonally based on lake levels.
What to do
Hiking at Guadalupe River State Park: Located about 20 minutes from Canyon Lake, the park offers hiking trails suitable for all skill levels. Visitor Ruben J. notes, "Good hiking trails, very friendly staff, interesting views and points of interest, fishing spots etc... I really enjoy camping specifically in the Wagon Ford area."
Tubing on the Guadalupe River: River Valley Resort and RV Park provides direct river access for tubing. According to visitor Simon N., "The riverfront is great for lounging in the shade, and the cliff side of the river is gorgeous for staring off into space." The park rents tubes, rafts and kayaks with shuttle service.
Paddleboarding on Canyon Lake: The calm waters of Canyon Lake are ideal for paddleboarding. Becky B. reports, "The water was slow moving so we paddle boarded upstream about a mile. We had the river almost to ourselves in mid September."
Disc golf: Several campgrounds near Canyon Lake offer disc golf courses. A reviewer at Mystic Quarry mentions, "Lots to do. Disc golf, swimming, lounging. They have a dog wash. Hammocks, showers."
What campers like
Waterfront access: Camping along Canyon Lake provides direct water access. At Potters Creek Park, Tim M. appreciates that "There are great spots everywhere you turn... Boat ramp was easily accessible and there was plenty of space along the shoreline to hang out."
Fishing opportunities: Canyon Lake and surrounding waters offer fishing options. Tripler S. describes the pond at one pet-friendly campground as "stocked full with bass and bluegill and you can catch 10 fish in 10 minutes."
Night sky visibility: The Canyon Lake area offers excellent stargazing opportunities. At B2 Hideaway, a camper reports, "The skyline is spectacular at any time of day but the night sky was breathtaking!"
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the cleanliness of facilities at dog-friendly campgrounds near Canyon Lake. Laura F. from Potters Creek Park describes "Nice large sites with covered picnic tables, a fire ring, and a grill. The sites along the lake front do not have trees for shade but the ones in the back row have nice trees."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds require advance bookings, especially during peak seasons. Crystal C. advises about Guadalupe River State Park, "Book In Advance! This park is very popular and quickly fills up on weekend, if you are planning a trip make sure you book well in advance to ensure you will have a site."
Weather impacts on facilities: Rain can affect campground accessibility. Troy W. notes, "While I visited, the recent downpour had forced closure of all trails and also this campsite as a part of the conservation effort for keeping the natural lands."
Campsite spacing and privacy: Some campgrounds offer more space between sites than others. At Cranes Mill Park, Mia D. observed, "Very clean and the sites are well maintained. They aren't all level but compared to other campgrounds they are pretty even. Loved the extra parking spot for our truck."
Seasonal water levels: Canyon Lake levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting shoreline access. Campers should check current water conditions before trips, especially during drought periods when water levels can drop significantly.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: For families with children, choose campgrounds with swimming areas. At Jellystone Park Hill Country, Ashley C. found impressive water features: "Their outdoor complex includes: one standard rectangular pool, one very shallow splash pad with several water spouts and a tiny kids slide, which flows into a deeper (3 foot) pool, and a large kids water play center."
Seasonal activities: Many campgrounds offer scheduled events for children. C&J F. mentions, "We have seen it grow over the years and all the changes that have been made. By far the best kid friendly camping place we have been to, from the water park, pools, bouncy pillow, games, hay ride and the mini golf."
Wildlife viewing: Several dog-friendly campgrounds near Canyon Lake offer wildlife viewing opportunities. Kelly Y. at KL Ranch Camp Cliffside recalls, "We had the best time, & we've been back many times since. Everything here is fantastic; the warm water, the playful deer, the bright sunshine, the even brighter stars, & the cool breeze in the evenings!"
Proximity to supplies: Most Canyon Lake campgrounds are within driving distance of stores. About Blanco State Park, Marnie G. notes, "We were even able to walk into the cute town of Blanco and enjoy some fantastic BBQ at Old 300!"
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: When booking RV sites, consider proximity to amenities. Ashley C. suggests, "When booking, there is an option to choose your specific site for a $15 fee. My advice is to pay the $15 and choose a site close to the Hill Country Hall and the waterpark."
Campground layouts: Some campgrounds are better suited for larger RVs than others. At River Valley Resort, a camper points out an interesting design feature: "One great part is that the pads alternate directions, so you can camp with your friends (or with new friends) instead of with their sewer connections."
Utility hookups: RV campers should check the specific hookups available at each site. Lisa M. at Cranes Mill Park shared, "Spaces are nicely far apart from each other and pavement pads and level. Dump station was able to utilize both coming and going into the park."
Cellular connectivity: For RVers who need to stay connected, consider cellular coverage. Red S. notes about one dog-friendly campground near Canyon Lake, "I don't know why it would not let me edit the phone service. But if you have T-Mobile you should know that this campground has 5G. And 4G in certain areas. I was able to use the internet text message and make and receive calls."
