The Comal region in Texas offers year-round camping options with an average rainfall of 35 inches annually. Most campgrounds sit at elevations between 650-900 feet, creating moderate temperature variations between day and night. During summer months, riverside camping spots often reach capacity by Thursday afternoon due to high demand from visitors seeking water recreation.
What to do
River tubing access: Canyon Lake provides multiple entry points for tube floating, with several campgrounds offering direct river access. At Cranes Mill Park, one visitor noted, "Clean and quit. 35$ and a rsther small park. Some sites have a shade. All hookups. A very nice experience!" The park sits directly on Canyon Lake with easy water entry points.
Fishing opportunities: Guadalupe River has designated fishing areas with both shallow and deep sections. According to a camper at Rio Guadalupe Resort & RV Park: "Great park. Easy pull through sites with very nice grounds. Swimming pool and 1/4 mile river access. Shallow river area for all ages." The river contains bass, bluegill and seasonal trout.
Hiking trails: Nearby trails range from easy riverside paths to more challenging hill country terrain. One visitor mentioned, "There are a series of trails for hiking, biking and even horseback riding. A full map is provided at the front gate and can come in handy if you are wanting to find more than just the river trail while at camp." Many trails remain accessible year-round but may close temporarily after heavy rains.
What campers like
Direct waterfront sites: Several dog friendly campgrounds near Comal offer premium riverfront locations. At Second Crossing (2nd-Xng) Camp, a camper shared, "The spots are right on the water, like I can walk 10 steps and throw a fishing line." These waterfront sites typically cost $5-10 more per night than standard sites but provide immediate river access.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained bathrooms and showers as standout features. One review noted, "Showers were clean and RR had plenty of TP and soap. We will def be back." Many campgrounds provide daily maintenance of restroom facilities, particularly during peak summer months.
Security measures: Several campgrounds implement security protocols for guest safety. A visitor at Cranes Mill Park mentioned, "I let the office know it was just us ladies and they surveyed the area to see how many folks were staying in the area to make me feel more at ease. One of the ladies also let me know where she stays, in case we need anything at night. Gates close at 10pm and I saw the staff circle by a few times throughout the evening."
What you should know
Train noise impacts: Some campgrounds experience disruption from nearby train tracks. A camper at Landa RV Park & Campground mentioned, "Train tracks run right past park so be prepared for train noise at all hours." Consider requesting sites furthest from tracks if noise is a concern.
River water levels: The Guadalupe River water level fluctuates seasonally, affecting activities. One visitor observed, "The water level of Canyon Lake was down so access to the water wasn't real easy. Once in the water it was great floating in a tube." Water levels are typically highest in spring and early summer.
Weekend crowds: Expect significantly higher occupancy Thursday through Sunday, especially during summer months. A regular camper noted, "During the week this campground is typically not too busy. On the weekends is when the crowds arrive." Many campgrounds reach full capacity on summer weekends.
