9 Best Canyon Lake Parks Hours, Entry Fee, Camping And Hiking Trails

Discover the stunning natural beauty and outdoor adventures awaiting you at Canyon Lake, a true Texan treasure! Nestled in the heart of Texas, Canyon Lake is home to some of the best parks for camping, hiking, and breathtaking views. In this guide, we’ll explore the top 9 Canyon Lake Parks, detailing their hours, entry fees, camping amenities, and the trails that beckon the intrepid hiker.

Get ready to immerse yourself in the tranquility and natural splendor of Canyon Lake—your next outdoor adventure starts here!

Consider reading: 10 Best Things to Do in Canyon Lake

Canyon Lake Park

Canyon Park, a stunning 485-acre oasis, lies along the serene shores of Canyon Lake. Open from March to October, this day-use-only gem offers an array of activities and facilities for visitors. From picnic areas to boat ramps and sandy beaches to scenic trails, Canyon Park is your go-to destination for a refreshing escape in nature.

Canyon Park Entry Fees and Operating Hours

Entrance Fees: $5 for vehicles with Comal County registration; $20 for others. Payment options include cash, debit cards, and major credit cards with a $1 processing fee.
Operating Hours for Areas 2, 3, & 4: From March 1 to October 31, with varying times throughout the seasons ensuring ample time to enjoy the park.

Explore Canyon Park Beaches and Trails

Swim Beach #1 and Madrone Trail are prime spots for visitors seeking both relaxation and adventure. Although Swim Beach #2 is temporarily closed due to low water levels, there’s still plenty to enjoy:

Swim Beach #1: Open from March to September. Unfortunately, it’s closed in March and October, but it buzzes with activity from April to September (exact hours TBD).
Madrone Trail: Accessible daily from 6 AM to 9 PM. Please note, during peak times, parking may be limited.

Amenities to Enhance Your Visit

The park is equipped with community grills, volleyball courts, soccer goals, and well-maintained restrooms to ensure a comfortable visit. Whether you’re planning a family outing or a solo trek, the facilities here cater to all needs.

Pavilion Rentals for Special Occasions

Looking to host an event? Our pavilions are perfect for gatherings:

Pavilion 1: Located across Swim Beach #1 at $350 (excluding deposit).

Pavilion 2 & 3: Nestled inside Canyon Park, each available for $250 (excluding deposit). A $100 refundable deposit is required, and cleanliness and no damage ensure its return.

Canyon Park Rules for a Safe Visit

To maintain the park’s beauty and safety, please adhere to the following:

No re-entry or unaccompanied minors under 16.

All pets must remain on a leash.
The use of drones, personal grills, or any motorized vehicles is prohibited.

Comal Park

Comal Park is a vibrant 116-acre recreation area located on the picturesque south shore of Canyon Lake near Startzville. Open from March through October, this park operates on a first-come, first-served basis, so no reservations are needed—just show up and enjoy!

Comal Park Address, Hours, and Admission Fees

Location: 1178 Comal Park Rd, Canyon Lake, TX 78133
Operating Hours:
- March 1st – March 29th: 10 AM – 6 PM (Entry closes at 4:30 PM)
- March 30th – September 30th: 8 AM – 7:30 PM (Entry closes at 6 PM)
- October: 10 AM – 6 PM (Entry closes at 4:30 PM)
Entrance Fees: $5 per vehicle for Comal County residents; $20 for others. We accept cash and cards, with a $1 card processing fee.

Activities at Comal Park

Whether you’re planning a family outing or a day of sports with friends, Comal Park has something for everyone. It features:

Picnic Sites and Community Grills: Perfect for a lakeside meal.
Two Boat Ramps: While boat and jet ski launching is currently restricted, these ramps are open for kayaks.

Swim Beach: A beautiful pea gravel and sand beach awaits swimmers and sunbathers.
Playground: Ideal for families with children.
Sports Facilities: Includes a sand volleyball court, soccer goals, and disc golf.

Walking Trail: Enjoy a scenic 1.2-mile trail through the park’s natural beauty.
Kayak & SUP Rentals: Available for an additional fee, explore the lake at your pace.

Comal Park Guidelines

For the safety and enjoyment of all visitors, please observe the following rules:

No re-entry, walk-ins, or unaccompanied minors (under 16).
Keep all dogs on a leash.
Please avoid bringing glass, Styrofoam, or Jello shots.

Use of personal charcoal grills, drones, and other prohibited items is strictly not allowed.
Commercial activities require prior approval from W.O.R.D. of Comal County.

Consider reading: Comal Park Canyon Lake Entry Fee, Activities and Swim Beach

Nichol’s Landing

Nichol’s Landing is a charming, riverfront county park managed by the Water Oriented Recreation District of Comal County (WORD). Tucked away in Spring Branch, this hidden gem offers a tranquil setting perfect for day trips along the scenic Guadalupe River. With parking limited to 20 cars, it provides an intimate experience for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

Nichol’s Landing Park Address and Hours

Location: 7878 Old Spring Branch Rd, Spring Branch, TX 78070
Hours of Operation: Open daily from 9 AM to sunset, ensuring ample time for exploration and relaxation.

Contact: Reach us at (830) 907-2300 for any inquiries.

Nichol’s Landing Fees and Admission

Enjoy free access for most of the year. During peak season from Memorial Day to Labor Day, and whenever an attendant is present, the following fees apply:

Adults: $4 (with vehicle parking)

Children (12 and under): $2 (with vehicle parking)
Drop-offs: $1 per person (without parking)

Nichol’s Landing Park Conduct Guidelines

To preserve the beauty and safety of Nichol’s Landing, please adhere to these rules:

No glass, foam products, or small open plastic containers.
Respect private property across the river and do not trespass.
Keep pets leashed and park only in designated areas to avoid towing.

Remember, no campfires, overnight camping, firearms, or fireworks are allowed.

Nichol’s Landing Paddling Trail

Embark on a paddling adventure on our 9.9-mile trail with float times ranging from 3 to 6 hours, depending on conditions. Start at Nichol’s Landing and choose between two take-out points:

Rebecca Creek Bridge (full route)

F.M. 311 (5.4 miles from the start, with exciting rapids along the way)

For an extended journey, connect with the Guadalupe River State Park Paddling Trail, adding up to 10 additional miles to your exploration.

Guadalupe River State Park Paddling Trail

This trail offers a 5-mile paddle through the heart of Texas Hill Country’s rugged landscapes, known for its crystal-clear waters and breathtaking views. Key points include:

Low Water Crossing: Near the 2.5-mile mark, requiring a brief exit and re-entry—please respect the surrounding private lands.

For both novice and experienced paddlers, Nichol’s Landing provides a perfect blend of peaceful riverfront beauty and mild adventure. Whether you’re here to drift gently downstream or seek a bit of thrill in the rapids, it’s an ideal spot to reconnect with nature.

Cranes Mill Park

Cranes Mill Park stands out as a top-tier Class A facility nestled on the serene southwest shores of Canyon Lake, near Startzville. Known for its modern RV and tent camping amenities, the park does not offer day use except for boat launching, making it an ideal spot for an extended outdoor retreat.

Cranes Mill Park Operating Hours and Policies

Open Year-Round: From 8 AM until sunset. The park gates lock at 10 PM with no re-entry until 7 AM.
Check-in and Check-out: Check-in at 3 PM and check-out by 2 PM. Campers may exit anytime.
Site Capacity: Maximum of two vehicles, two tents, or ten persons per site.

Location: Situated off FM 2673 at the end of South Cranes Mill Road, just past the Guadalupe River crossing.
Contact: For more details, call at (830) 964-3341

Directions to Cranes Mill Park

From IH 35, take the Canyon Lake exit and head west on FM 306 for about 14 miles. Turn left on FM 2673 after crossing the Guadalupe River. Follow the road to the park’s entrance at the westernmost end.

Facilities and Services at Cranes Mill Park

Cranes Mill Park offers:

30 RV Sites and 34 Tent Sites: Equipped with electric and water hookups, covered picnic tables, standing grills, and fire rings.
Sanitary Facilities: Includes two shower houses for guests and additional restrooms for boat ramp users.

Fishing and Boating: Two fishing piers (one exclusively for park guests and another for the public) and a boat ramp that operates when the lake’s water level is sufficient.

Cranes Mill Park Reservations and Fees

Camping Fees: $26.00 per night for a single RV/campsite and $20.00 per night for all tent sites.
Boat Launch Fees: $3.00 per launch when not renting a campsite. Free for registered camping guests.

Note: The boat ramp and fishing facilities are contingent on water levels and may close when the parking area reaches capacity. Starting later this year, site reservations will transition to an online system.

Joint Base San Antonio Recreation Area

Joint Base San Antonio Recreation Area, formerly known as Fort Sam Houston Recreation Area and Randolph Recreation Park, is your ultimate destination for outdoor fun and relaxation on the shores of Canyon Lake.

Nestled directly on Canyon Lake, this expansive recreation area offers a plethora of activities and amenities designed to cater to every preference:

Accommodations: Choose from a variety of cottages, cabanas, a well-equipped RV park, and tent camping spots.
Picnicking: Ample picnic areas provide a perfect setting for a relaxing day with family and friends.
Water Sports: Dive into a range of water sports with our available rental equipment, ideal for both beginners and seasoned enthusiasts.

Directions to Joint Base San Antonio Recreation Area

Just a 48-mile drive north from San Antonio makes this park a convenient getaway:

Head north on Interstate 35 from San Antonio.
Take the Canyon Lake exit (Exit 191) near New Braunfels.

Turn left onto Farm Road 306 and continue for about 16 miles towards Canyon City.
Proceed an additional 1½ miles past the blinking light in Canyon City to Jacobs Creek Park Road.
Turn right into the Joint Base San Antonio Recreation Park at Canyon Lake to check in and begin your adventure.

With reasonable rates and a vast selection of activities, the Joint Base San Antonio Recreation Area is perfect for a day trip or an extended stay. Enjoy the natural beauty of Canyon Lake and make the most of the recreational facilities available at your disposal.

Guadalupe Park

Guadalupe Park, nestled below Canyon Dam along the first mile of the Guadalupe River, offers a serene setting for day-use activities like hiking and fishing. This park, managed by the Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority, is renowned for its accessible trails and exceptional trout fishing opportunities, making it a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts.

Guadalupe Park Features and Amenities

Accessibility: ADA-accessible parking and trailway with a fishing pier on the north side.

Trails: A foot trail along the river on the south side provides direct river access for fishing. Please ensure you have a state fishing license.
Fishing: Known as the state’s premier trout fishing stream and the southernmost sustainable trout fishery in the nation.
Facilities: No restrooms, camping, or picnic facilities. Occasionally, a portable toilet is provided. The nearest restroom is at Overlook Park near the southern end of Canyon Dam.

Guadalupe Park Operating Hours

Hours: Open from sunrise to sunset daily.
Season: Available all year round.

Directions to Guadalupe Park

From IH 35: Exit 191 for FM 306 just north of New Braunfels, head west and continue past the Guadalupe River tubing area. After about 2 miles, turn left at the stoplight onto South Access Road. The park is on your left after the first bend.

From US Hwy 281: Take Hwy 46 East past Smithson Valley High School, turn left on FM 3159. Continue for 6.7 miles, then right on FM 2673 in Startzville. In Sattler, turn left at the light onto South Access Rd. After about 1.5 miles, with the dam on your right, the park entrance is also on your right.

Feel free to park in any of the three available areas, with the first being ADA-accessible and paved, while the others are dirt lots adjacent to the stilling basin.

Consider reading: Guadalupe River State Park Camping, Activities and Hiking

North Park

North Park, uniquely positioned off FM 306 near the dam, offers an exceptional outdoor experience focusing on tent camping and scuba diving. This secluded park is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in nature and underwater adventures.

North Park Hours and Admission Fees

Open Season: April 1 to September 30. The park is closed during the winter months and to everyone from Monday to Thursday.
Camping Fee: $12.00 per night for single campsites.

Operating Hours:
- Friday and Saturday: 9 AM – 10 PM
- Sunday: 9 AM – 2 PM

North Park Facilities and Activities

Camping: Offers 19 tent-only campsites, each equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring. Please note, no RVs, pop-ups, or pull-behinds are allowed.
Facilities: Includes vault toilets. Note that there are no showers or boat ramps available.
Scuba Diving: Renowned as a popular scuba diving spot, divers must rent a campsite to dive here.

Directions to North Park

From IH 35:
- Exit 191 for FM 306 located just west of New Braunfels.
- Travel west on FM 306 for approximately 18.5 miles to North Park Road.
- Turn onto North Park Road and follow it to the park at the end of the road.
From US Hwy 281:
- Take FM 306 east for about 16.5 miles until you reach North Park Road.
- Turn onto North Park Road and follow it to the park at the end of the road.

Please check in at the gatehouse before entering the park to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit.

Canyon Lake Overlook Park

Overlook Park, perched atop a hill at the south end of Canyon Dam, is a breathtaking vantage point offering panoramic views of Canyon Lake and its dam. Managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, this day-use park is a serene getaway for nature lovers and sightseers alike.

Overlook Park Hours and Admission Fees

Hours of Operation: Open daily from 7 AM until sunset.
Seasonality: Accessible year-round, offering consistent, stunning views no matter the season.
Admission: Free of charge.

Overlook Park Guidelines

Day Use Only: No overnight camping, weapons, or alcoholic drinks are permitted.
Safety Notice: Please refrain from using the road across the top of the dam; it is a service road for maintenance, not a hiking trail.

Overlook Park Amenities and Activities

Scenic Views: Ideal for photographers and nature enthusiasts wanting to capture or soak in the views of Canyon Lake and its surroundings.

Walking Trail: Access the Verada Real walking trail across Canyon Dam for a leisurely stroll or a vigorous hike.
Facilities: While there are no camping or picnic areas, a restroom is available at the top of the hill along with ample visitor parking.

Directions to Overlook Park

From IH 35:
- Take FM 306 exit 191 just north of New Braunfels.
- Head west on FM 306, crossing the Guadalupe River.
- Approximately 2 miles after the river, turn left at the stoplight onto South Access Road.
- Follow the road around the base of the dam.
- Take the first right onto C.O.E. Road where two large swing gates open during daytime are located.
- A brown sign reading “Canyon Lake” marks the right turn; proceed up the hill to the park.

From US Hwy 281:
- Take Hwy 46 East past Smithson Valley High School.
- Turn left on FM 3159 and continue for 6.7 miles.
- Turn right at the traffic light onto FM 2673 in Startzville.
- In Sattler, turn left at the stoplight onto South Access Rd.
- After about 1.5 miles, with the dam on your left, turn left between the stone gates where a large brown sign indicates “Canyon Lake.”
- Drive to the top of the hill to the parking area.

Enjoy a peaceful day at Overlook Park, where the natural beauty of Canyon Lake can be enjoyed from sunrise to sunset.

Potter’s Creek Park

Potter’s Creek Park, located on the picturesque northwest side of Canyon Lake, is a Class A facility renowned for its exceptional RV and tent camping amenities. This exclusive camping destination caters only to paid camping guests, ensuring a private and tranquil experience.

Potter’s Creek Park Hours and Fees

Hours of Operation: Open daily from 8 AM until sunset.
Facilities: The park boasts 114 modern RV campsites, 7 screened shelters, 10 designated tent sites, and 5 family sites, all equipped with electricity and water.
Single RV/Campsites: $26.00 per night

Double Family RV/Campsite: $40.00 per night
Triple Family RV/Campsites: $60.00 per night
Screened-in Shelters: $40.00 per night

Tent Only Sites: $20.00 per night
Group Shelter: Available seven days a week for $100.00 per day

Directions to Potter’s Creek Park

From IH 35:
- Exit #191 for FM 306 just north of New Braunfels, Texas.
- Travel west on FM 306 for 26 miles.
- Turn south onto Potter’s Creek Road and continue for 2 miles to the park entrance.

From US Hwy 281:
- Take FM 306 east for 10 miles.
- Turn south onto Potter’s Creek Road and continue for 2 miles to the park entrance.

Potter’s Creek Park offers a serene escape with lush surroundings and ample space for relaxation and recreation. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat in a tent or a full-service RV camping experience, Potter’s Creek Park provides all the necessary facilities to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable.

Consider reading: 10 Best Places for Camping Near San Antonio TX

Final Thoughts on Canyon Lake Parks

As you plan your next visit to Canyon Lake, remember that each park offers its own unique blend of natural beauty, recreational activities, and serene landscapes. Whether you’re interested in hiking through rugged trails, camping under the stars, or simply enjoying a peaceful day by the water, Canyon Lake has something to offer every outdoor enthusiast.

With detailed information on park hours, entry fees, and the best trails, you’re well-equipped to make the most of your time at this stunning Texas destination.

FAQS on Canyon Lake Parks

Is it okay to swim in Canyon Lake?

Swimming is allowed at Canyon Lake outside of restricted areas. For safety reasons, it’s recommended to swim at designated swim beaches.

How much is it to swim at Canyon Lake?

The entrance fee for swim beaches varies. For Swim Beach #1, located on Canyon Park Road, the fee is $5 per vehicle registered in Comal County and $20 per vehicle for all others.

What is the main beach in Canyon Lake?

Sunset Beach is considered the main beach in Canyon Lake. It’s the largest beach in the area and hosts various community events such as Taco Tuesday and Fiesta Day. Sunset Beach is situated next to the Lodge in the center of the community.

How much does it cost to get into Comal Park?

The entrance fee for Comal Park is $20 per vehicle for visitors from outside of Comal County and $5 per vehicle for those with Comal County registration stickers. Entry is free for vehicles with Disabled Veteran (DV) license plates.