Canyon Lake offers some of the best swimming in the beautiful Texas Hill Country. With its crystal clear, almost turquoise blue waters, Canyon Lake is often referred to by locals, as the Texas Caribbean. The beautiful scenery and gorgeous water make for the perfect spot for a refreshing dip on a hot summer day.
Whether you are a seasoned swimmer or just looking to cool off, Canyon Lake has just what you need.
Canyon lake is a very large lake and offers many options for adventure if you enjoy water sports. At Canyon Lake Marina, you can rent jet skis, pontoon boats, or a ski boat for tubing, skiing, or wakeboarding. And if you have your own boat, even better, there are many boat ramps around the lake.
I want to make this very clear! Please do not jump off rocks and cliffs. Every summer people are injured and even killed after jumping off the cliffs and rocks.
This post is all about the best swimming areas at Canyon Lake.
The Best Canyon Lake Swimming Areas
Canyon Park
Situated on the north edge of Canyon Lake, Canyon Park spans a vast area of 485 acres. This park, which borders the lake, is presently only accessible for daytime use only. You will have access to picnic areas, a boat ramp, a sandy beach mixed with pea gravel, and restroom facilities scattered throughout the park. Canyon park also features Canyon Swim Beach #1, Canyon Swim Beach #2, and Madrone Trail.
Address: 1769 Canyon Park Rd.
Phone Number: 830-964-3341
Season: April 1- Sept. 1
Fees: $5 for Comal County registered vehicles and $20 for non-Comal County registered vehicles
Hours: 10:00 am to 7:30 pm – No Entry after 4:30
Amenities: Boat Ramp, restrooms, Sand Volleyball Court, Soccer Goals, Tether Ball courtesy dock, water fountains, hiking trails, biking trails, large swim beach, community grills
Pets: Allowed on a leash but NOT allowed in the beach area
Camping: no overnight camping of any kind. Canyon Park is a day-use-only facility
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Canyon Lake Beach
Address: 177 Canyon Park Road
Phone Number: 830-964-3341
Fees: $5/vehicle $2/walkup or bicycle
Hours: 8 am to sunset – Day Use Only
Parking: Free once you pay your entrance fee
Amenities: Restrooms, Grills, Picnic tables
Pets: Not Allowed
RV, Trailers: Not allowed
See Also: Best Things to Do in Canyon Lake
Comal Park Beach
Address: 1178 Comal Park Rd
Phone Number: 830-964-3341
Season: April 1 – Sept. 30
Fees: $5 for Comal County registered vehicles and $20 for non-Comal County registered vehicles
Hours: 8:00 am – sunset
Parking: Plenty of parking
Amenities: Bathrooms, 2 boat ramps, playground, picnic sites, community grills, volleyball courts, soccer goals, washer pits, Kayak and SUP Rentals available
Pets: on a leash at all times
Camping: No Camping – Day Use Only
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The Jacob’s Creek Park Beach
Jacob’s creek is permanently closed
The North Park Beach
Located on the north side of Canyon lake’s dam, North Park was established in the 1950s as a picturesque viewing spot and later transformed into a basic campground. With just 20 tent sites, 1 restroom, water fountains, and a gatehouse, this modestly sized park boasts some of the most breathtaking views of the lake. Positioned on a protrusion that extends into the water, visitors can relish in stunning sunsets that stretch across the lake.
Address: 3203 North Park Road
Phone Number: (830) 964-3341
Season: April 1 thru the last weekend in September
Fees: $12 for a tent campsite
Hours: Open on weekends only – Opens Fridays at 3:00 and closes Sunday at 2:00
Amenities: vault toilettes, picnic areas, hiking trails, grills, fire rings, parking area
Pets: Allowed
Camping: Primitive tent camping only
North Park is a primitive tent camping park only – no day use.
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The Overlook Park Beach
Overlook Park is directly adjacent to the Canyon Dam. It’s just a short hike down a rocky path to the water’s edge from the parking lot. The water is crystal clear, making this a perfect place for a beach day.
One of my favorite things to do after a great day at the beach is to take a walk across the dam. It’s an easy walk and the views of the lake are breathtaking. Be prepared, it can get very windy up there. But, not to the point of feeling unsafe.
Address: 601 COE Rd
Phone Number: (830) 964-3341
Season: Daily Year Round
Fees: there is no fee
Hours: 7:00 am to sunset
Parking: Free Parking
Amenities: Restrooms, lake access
RV, Trailers: No
The Potters Creek Park Beach
Situated on the northern shore of Canyon Lake, Potter’s Creek park is open year-round and offers great opportunities for RV and tent camping, boating, fishing, and swimming.
Address: 3145 Potter’s Creek Rd.
Phone Number: (830) 964-3341
Season: Year Round
Fees: Reservations are required at recreation.gov
Hours:
Parking:
Amenities: Lake Views, picnic tables, boat ramp, fishing pier, swim beach, dock, restrooms, fire rings, grills
Pets:
Camping: RV and Tent Camping
See Also: Best RV Parks Near Canyon Lake
Canyon Park
Address:
Phone Number: 830-964-3341
Season: April 1- Sept. 1
Fees: $12 for Tent Sites
Hours: 8:00 am to 10:00 pm
Amenities: Boat Ramp, restrooms, courtesy dock, water fountains, hiking trails, biking trails, large swim beach
Pets: Allowed on a leash but NOT allowed in the beach area
Camping: Tent camping only – no campers or trailers
Canyon Park is not a day-use park.
Cranes Mill Park Beach
Address:
Phone Number:
Season:
Fees:
Hours:
Parking:
Amenities:
Pets:
RV, Trailers: RV and Tent Camping only
Cranes Mill does not allow day passes. Facilities are reserved for guests who are staying at the park.
Things to do Near Canyon Lake
Hiking
Float the famous Guadalupe River
Floating the Guadalupe River in an inner tube is a must if you are visiting anywhere near the New Braunfels area. Grab your friends and favorite adult beverage and relax as you float past towering cypress trees, and limestone cliffs, in the crystal-clear water. Whether you prefer a slow lazy float or a more thrilling ride through rapids, tubing on the Guadalupe is a must-do for Texas Travelers.
Golf
lakeside golf club
Wineries
Dry Comal Creek Vineyards
Comal Wines
Glamping
For a unique and luxurious camping experience, try glamping in Canyon Lake. Stay in a stylishly furnished safari tent or cozy cabin complete with comfy beds, private bathrooms, and fully equipped kitchens. Enjoy nature without sacrificing comfort, and take advantage of onsite amenities like fire pits, grills, and hammocks for a truly unforgettable getaway.
Drive River Road
A scenic drive down River Road is a must-do activity for nature lovers. This winding road follows the beautiful Guadalupe River and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Hill Country. Stop along the way to hike, swim, or simply soak in the stunning scenery. Be sure to bring your camera for some unforgettable photo ops.
Check out Canyon Lake Gorge
The gorge offers a unique opportunity to witness the raw power of nature and see the effects of the 2002 flood. You will notice the exposed rock formations that are millions of years old and learn about the geological history of the region.
The Canyon Lake Gorge is the perfect place for hiking, bird watching, and opportunities for nature photography.
Fishing
If you enjoy fishing, you are going to love Canyon Lake and the Guadalupe River The Lake offers a variety of fish including Largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, and catfish, while the river is a great place to catch rainbow trout. Whether you prefer fly fishing or casting a line, you will surely enjoy the scenic beauty of these waters while reeling in your catch.
Whitewater Amphitheater
Whitewater Amphitheater is a great place to see a concert and listen to live music. They have reserved seats you can purchase. But, in my opinion, the best way to see the concert is to buy a general admission ticket. Get in line early and you are almost guaranteed a front-row seat for the evening.
Visit Nearby New Braunfels and Gruene
New Braunfels and Gruene are just a short drive from Canyon Lake and are 2 of the most popular destinations for Texas travelers. You can spend a day at Schlitterbahn waterpark, or take a relaxing float down the Guadalupe River, or catch a live show at Gruene Hall. For antique lovers, there are plenty of shops to peruse. And end your day with a delicious dinner at Krause’s for some authentic german food.
Q&A
Is Canyon Lake good for swimming?
Canyon Lake is one of the best places for swimming and water activities, with clear blue water and several designated swimming areas throughout the lake. The lake is regularly tested for water quality, making it safe for swimming most of the time. However, visitors should always check for any water advisories before swimming. And take plenty of life jackets with you because Canyon Lake can go from shallow to very deep VERY QUICKLY!
Can you swim anywhere on canyon lake?
While Canyon Lake is a popular place for swimming, you should not swim outside of the designated areas. The lake can have strong currents and deep drop-offs, which can be very dangerous for swimmers. You must follow all posted rules and regulations and NEVER swim alone.
Are there alligators in Canyon Lake?
No, there are no alligators in Canyon Lake. i have lived in the area for almost 30 years and I have never seen or heard of alligators in the lake.
However, you should still be aware of other wildlife in the area, like snakes and turtles, and you should always be cautious when swimming and boating.
Is the water in Canyon Lake Clean?
The water in Canyon Lake is generally considered clean and safe for water activities. The water quality is regularly monitored by local authorities, and any issues that arise are quickly addressed. Even still, you should always check for any water advisories before swimming in the lake.
Find out about the Comal county burn ban here.
This Post was All About the Best Swimming in Canyon Lake
Canyon Lake is a beautiful place with some of the best swimming holes you will find in the hill country. So if you are looking for a refreshing swim, you are in the right place.
Your post was a great planning tool. Thank you so much……..K