There isn’t anything quite like the Texas Hill Country lifestyle. In the midst of the Hill Country is Canyon Lake where green rolling hills meet the crystal waters of Canyon Lake and the Guadalupe River. This area has many types of activities and businesses just waiting to welcome you. Check out our compiled list of things to do in Canyon Lake.
Where is Canyon Lake Texas
Canyon Lake is centrally located between Austin and San Antonio. It is also just minutes away from New Braunfels, Gruene, Bulverde, and Spring Branch. Its location, on the Guadalupe River, makes it a great place to relax and enjoy the great outdoors. White-tailed deer, foxes, roadrunners, and other wildlife.
Canyon Lake is mostly known for water recreation. There is outdoor recreation, including hiking trails and parks. Let’s check out those fun things to do while you’re visiting Canyon Lake.
Fun Things to Do In Canyon Lake Texas
Hit the Trails at Guadalupe State Park
As mentioned above, Canyon Lake is located on the Guadalupe River. Many people come here to swim, but the park is more than a great swimming hole. Beautiful scenery and colorful history make this a wonderful place for hiking, swimming, fishing, and camping.
Guadalupe State Parks has 13 miles of hiking and biking trails that range in difficulty. Some park trails are even open to horseback riders.
Tube down the river at Guadalupe State Park. It is one of the top things locals do during the summer months to beat the heat. You can rent tubes or bring your own.
Since this is a state park, you can reserve a pass for day use or camping. Be sure to check out their website.
Natural Bridge Caverns
There is so much to explore at Natural Bridge Caverns which is family owned and operated. It is a premier natural attraction where you will find adventure and fun.
Not only can you explore the huge caverns, but there are plenty of family activities you can do above ground such as the Twisted Trails, AMAZEn’ Ranch Roundup, Mining activities and more. There is something for every child at Natural Bridge Caverns.
Heritage Museum of the Texas Hill Country
Million of years ago, dinosaurs roamed the lands that are now known as Canyon Lake. They left behind footprints are still around today. Much of the region’s history is preserved in The Heritage Museum in a fun way for kids of all ages.
At Heritage Museum of the Texas Hill Country you can get an up-close look at more than 200 dinosaur tracks and 28 trackways as well as Native American artifacts, Cretaceous fossil collection, and other vintage pieces.
Comal Park
Comal Park is located on the South shore of Canyon Lake near Startzville. This lakefront park has picnic sites, boat ramps, a pea gravel and sand beach, playground, and restrooms. There are also volleyball courts, soccer goals, and washer pits.
What makes this park great are all the amenities and the fact there is no reservation required. However, the park does fill up quickly. Make sure to get there early before it is sold out.
Explore Overlook Park
Overlook park is an easy 0.6 mile loop trail near Canyon Lake, Texas. It usually takes an average of 14 minutes to complete which makes it a great trail for taking the kids as it isn’t very long to walk or complete.
At the top, you will have beautiful views of the lake. Back at the bottom you can wade along the lake shoreline. If you go up the road you can walk along the dam.
This popular trail is great for birding, hiking, walking, or just enjoying nature. The best time to visit this trail are April through September. Don’t forget to bring your water no matter what time of year you go.
Fossil Hunting at Canyon Lake Gorge
During one week in the summer of 2002, more than 34 inches of rain fell in the upper watershed of the Guadalupe River, setting off a torrent of floodwater that carved a perfectly fascinating geological wonder known as Canyon Lake Gorge out of the earth.
The main entrance to the Canyon Lake Gorge is located across from the Hidden Valley Sports Park. There are many things to do here including yoga classes in the Gorge, waterfalls, searching for fossils and dinosaur tracks.
You can also opt in to have a tour of Canyon Lake Gorge. There are private, group, and public tours that are available for educational groups or anyone who wants to learn more about the area and history.
Dry Comal Creek Vineyards
The Texas Hill Country is also known for the their many vineyards. These wineries pride themselves on producing quality products for their customers as well as having a relaxing environment to enjoy them in.
Dry Comal Creek Vineyards wine is produced from 100% Texas grapes. In addition to offering wine tastings, wine by the glass, and wine bottle service, Dry Comal Creek also hosts events which can be found on their website.
Canyon Lakeside Golf Club
What is a trip without a round of golf?! Lakeside Golf Club is the best option for a memorable round of golf in Canyon Lake, Texas which their course carved into the beautiful rolling terrain of the Texas Hill Country.
Aside from the golf course, Lakeside Golf Clube offers additional amenities including the 19th Hole Bar and Grill, tennis courts, and pool area.
Whitewater Amphitheater
Set on the eastern bank of the Guadalupe River just a few miles from Canyon Lake is Whitewater Amphitheater. Whitewater Amphitheater is an outdoor venue that welcomes some of the top musicians and bands around.
Concerts are held from April through October, and you can see a schedule of upcoming shows at the venue’s website. You can also purchase tickets in advance online.
Wimberley Zipline Adventures
Experience the rush as you soar over canyons and creeks with view of Wimberley Valley. Wimberley Zipline Adventures has 10 lines of ziplining fun.
No prior experience is needed as their trained guides will fit you with equipment and ease you into the course with a “flight school” where everyone will practice before heading out. You can book online or on the phone.
Places Near Canyon Lake Texas
There is plenty to see and do in the Canyon Lake area. However there is even more if you’re up for a little road trip. You can take a drive to New Braunfels for another day of adventure at Schlitterbann Waterpark Resort. Shop the day away at the outlets in San Marcos. Take a drive to Devil’s Backbone Overlook in Wimberley. Stroll through historic Gruene. Lastly drive to Fredricksburg to visit amazing wineries and grab a German pretzel. All these adventures are less than a 90 minute drive, making it an easy day trip adventure.
Places to Stay Near Canyon Lake
Canyon Lake has several lodging options near the Canyon Lake area which includes Canyon Lakeview Resort, Canyon Lake Timeshares, Equinox Inn at Biscuit Hill Bed & Breakfast, camping at Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park, and more.
