Canyon Lake's RV camping options sit approximately 50 miles northeast of San Antonio in the heart of Texas Hill Country, with elevations ranging from 909 to 1,760 feet. The region experiences hot summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F from June through September, while winter nights can occasionally drop below freezing. Most campgrounds remain accessible year-round with varying seasonal rates that reflect the area's popularity during summer water recreation months.
What to do
River activities: tubing, kayaking, swimming: The Guadalupe River offers multiple water recreation opportunities within minutes of most campgrounds. At Rio Guadalupe Resort & RV Park, visitors can access the river directly from the property. "My sister in law made these reservations and I was a little bit skeptical because of the 'parking lot' pics online... But the best part was the river access. It was beautiful! The river access is Overlooking a canyon wall, with ducks and deer roaming and a huge yard of grass all the way down to the waters edge," reports one camper.
Wildlife viewing: deer and bird watching: Many campgrounds in the Canyon Lake area feature natural habitats where wildlife frequently visits. "We loved the quiet and peace of this RV Resort nestled in Texas Hill Country... Small deer herds would move through the park each evening. Many of the campers feed them corn and they know the sounds and come running out of the hills," notes a visitor to Texas 281 RV Park.
Day trips to nearby towns: The location provides convenient access to surrounding communities. From Stonewall Motor Lodge, "Great, quiet spot behind the Stonewall Motor Lodge. 4 RV spots pretty close together, but nicely shaded and beautiful... Large open green space with trees and roaming wild Axis deer behind the spots, with great outdoor sitting area and a unique barn with tv and games."
What campers like
Riverside camping spots: Many campers appreciate sites positioned close to water. At Summit Vacation Resort, "This camp is so much more than an RV camp. River access is down a series of steps. Water is beautifully shallow and slow moving. Office store staff are sweet and friendly. Buy camp necessities, souvenirs, rent tubes for the river."
Oak tree shade coverage: The mature trees throughout the region provide natural relief from Texas heat. According to a Spring Branch RV Park visitor, "OK so I don't often gush like this but I cannot say enough nice things about this park. Paved roads, clean sites with good power and water everything is surrounded by mature oak trees and the staff is absolutely wonderful."
Pool facilities for cooling off: Multiple campgrounds offer swimming pools as alternatives to river recreation. "We've stayed here 3 times now and each experience has been amazing! It's quiet, lots of things for the kids to do like swimming, miniature golf, basketball, tennis, etc. The views are really pretty since the RV park is down in a valley," shares a Summit Vacation Resort guest.
What you should know
Seasonal crowds impact reservations: Summer brings increased visitor numbers to Canyon Lake RV parks. At Landa RV Park & Campground, one camper notes: "If you're here to float this is your campground. No frills but right on the river. They rent tubes and will shuttle you back. Campground itself is very basic but its a short walk into town. Train tracks run right past park so be prepared for train noise at all hours."
Site spacing varies between parks: Some campgrounds offer more privacy than others. "Great campground lots todo in near by towns there is a river with future rentals and people are very nice gets loud on the weeknds," reports a visitor to New Braunfels RV Park, highlighting potential noise concerns during peak periods.
Environmental considerations: Weather and terrain present specific challenges. "When you first roll up I felt a bit skeptical. Surrounding area appeared to be rough bars on windows Homeless foot traffic seemed high. Once you get inside the park it changed. Very well kept up park no trash anywhere and friendly people," explains a camper at Travelers World RV Resort about first impressions versus reality.
Tips for camping with families
Recreation options beyond water: Many parks provide additional entertainment. "The Park: they have a large pool area with cafe and snacks. The property is large and spaces are spread out through out the park. The big draw is the Guadalupe River, Canyon Lake, and the woods and hills," shares a visitor to Summit Vacation Resort.
Safety precautions for river access: River conditions can vary throughout the season. At Rio Guadalupe Resort & RV Park, one camper advises: "There is no safe river access. You must hike down to river but soo worth it when u make it down. Overall if u can get past random eye sores and no walk in river access this will do fine for a weekend getaway."
Pet-friendly considerations: For families traveling with animals, selecting appropriate accommodations is important. "Good sized shady fenced in dog park in the back with a picnic table. Rv campers have full access to the Summit compound which includes tubing shuttle, pool, tennis, putt putt golf, so on so forth. Quiet place to unwind and go float the river," notes a visitor about Summit Vacation Resort.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: The Hill Country terrain creates challenges at some sites. "The sites are gravel (a little unlevel due to the slight hills) but perfectly spaced with full hook up," reports an Austin Lone Star RV Community visitor about accommodating larger rigs.
Security considerations: Some parks offer enhanced security features. "Very nice campground, very secure, codes used to enter gate, pool, showers/restrooms & 24hour laundry room. Highly recommend this campground, staff was very nice," shares another Austin Lone Star RV Community camper.
Road access challenges: Navigating to some campgrounds requires caution. "Asphalt drive through campground and wide spots. Reservations can be made over email or phone. The cicadas were in the trees and 'sang' us to sleep. It's right off the highway and we were 3 spots to the highway. Even then, the road noise was not terrible. The turn into the park is directly off of 281, so a good idea to slow down ahead of time!" advises a Spring Branch RV Park guest.
