Canyon Lake serves as the cornerstone of camping near Fischer, Texas, situated at 909 feet above sea level in the Texas Hill Country. The lake spans 8,230 acres with 80 miles of shoreline, creating multiple camping zones with varied terrain and water access points. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 95°F while spring and fall offer milder conditions in the 70-85°F range.
What to do
Riverfront exploration: The Guadalupe River offers numerous recreation spots with easy access from campgrounds. At Camp Huaco Springs, campers can enjoy direct river entry. "The Guadalupe River lets out right at the camp site so makes it convenient to just hop out of the river," notes Katie A., though she mentions "the camp grounds are crowded however, and a bit pricey."
Water recreation: Canyon Lake provides excellent conditions for boating, swimming and fishing. Guests at Cranes Mill Park appreciate the water quality despite seasonal fluctuations. "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," shares Barb M., who also noted the "very clean bathrooms."
Hiking trails: Pedernales Falls State Park Campground offers extensive trail systems through Hill Country terrain. "Great hike down to the Pedernales Falls and cool little caves to explore. On the other end of the park, there are longer trails (roughly 4 Miles) with scenic overlooks of the Pedernales River," reports Kaitlyn M., who also appreciated that the park is "extremely dog friendly."
What campers like
Natural springs: Local campgrounds feature natural water sources beyond the main lake and river. "They even have a natural spring!" exclaims Sara R. about Camp Huaco Springs, where she found "every type of camping! RV, tent no electric, tent with electric, cabins."
Wildlife viewing: Many campgrounds report regular deer sightings and other wildlife encounters. The Summit Vacation Resort has resident deer that visit campsites. "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," observes Laura H.
Yurt camping options: Fischer, Texas area campgrounds offer alternative accommodations including yurts. Mystic Quarry features premium camping structures. "Very cool place... Lots of outdoor games and places to explore. Sites are a good size, some bigger than ours and mostly well drained," notes Karen B., who also appreciated that "Wifi was not perfect but much better than most campgrounds."
What you should know
Reservation timing: Many popular sites book quickly, especially during peak seasons. "Make reservations months in advance," advises Chris C. about Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Camp-Resort: Canyon Lake, adding it's "nice campground. Great for kids. Big pool and small water park."
Weather awareness: Flash flooding occurs in the area and should be taken seriously. "True central Texas experience... Made me aware of how serious flash flooding is here. Respect weather warnings!" cautions Faith S. about Pedernales Falls State Park.
Seasonal closures: Some campgrounds operate on limited schedules. Cranes Mill Park maintains consistent operations, with Stephanie G. noting, "We had the most relaxing time. Although water is low there were folks who fished. Showers were clean and RR had plenty of TP and soap."
Tips for camping with families
Water safety: Canyon Lake water levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting swimming conditions. "The glamping tents are super cute. The regular tent camping is nice and grassy," says Alyssa about Rebecca Creek Campgrounds, though she notes "Dogs have to be on leash 24/7 that was the only bummer."
Activity options: Many campgrounds offer structured entertainment beyond water recreation. "This is a kids heaven. Water park is a parents heaven, see the kids from just about anywhere within the park," explains Tyler about Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Camp-Resort, adding it allows parents to "relax at the table. Have an adult conversation for once."
Proximity to supplies: Local stores provide convenient access to camping necessities. "No need to pack groceries as the park is right off the Main Street. We've enjoyed most of their restaurants around their courthouse. It's great because we don't have to cook," shares Kingrex49 M. about Blanco State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Some RV sites offer more privacy and space than others. "The sites are a little tight but they are what you would expect at an RV park. The staff is excellent. There are a lot of activities," reports Jeff H. about Mystic Quarry, though he mentioned WiFi connectivity issues.
Leveling considerations: Many sites require adjustments for comfortable parking. "The sites are level but you don't come here for the sites - its the water park or for the activities in the Hill Country. The back in sites at the back of the park actually give you the most room," advises another Jeff H.
Access routes: Some campgrounds have challenging entry roads for larger vehicles. "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," reports Levi B. about Summit Vacation Resort.
