Canyon Lake's unique history.
Many visitors do not know this, but Canyon Lake has not always been a lake! Before the Canyon Dam was built, the lake we now know was a stretch of mostly-abandoned farmland situated close to the neighboring Guadalupe River.
In 1958, plans for construction of Canyon Dam on the Guadalupe River Mile 303 began. It is a rolled-earth dam that would eventually hold water that forms Canyon Lake. In 1960, developers began creating residential subdivisions, still before the lake resembled how we know it today. The dam was needed to provide the canyon with a constant enough level of water to fill up and stay full. Water impoundment of Canyon Lake began in 1964, and the conservation pool level was reached in 1968.
Today, it is a peaceful getaway for visitors and a rich community for residents. The lake is recognized all throughout Texas as having the clearest water of any Texas lake, and it is well known for its great fishing. Our goal is to help you navigate all that Canyon Lake and the surrounding areas have to offer!
Historic Photo of Canyon Lake
Outdoor Activities
Cranes Mill Marina
Fishing
Canyon Lake Marina
Deer Watching
The Horseshoe (Tubing)
The Horseshoe is where the Guadalupe river meets Canyon lake, making it a perfect spot to go tubing for the day!
The Marinas
Cranes Mill and Canyon Lake Marinas are owned by the same great people. Cranes Mill is on the south side of the Lake, close to our Reunion Beach House, Water's Edge, and The Cove. Canyon Lake Marina is to the north, near The Ranch Retreat. From both locations, you can rent pontoon boats, jet skis, and ski boats by the hour.
Canyon Dam
The Canyon Dam is a perfect place for a walk or jog. The path across the dam is bordered to one side by the clear waters of Canyon Lake, and to the other side by the peaceful hill country.
Potter's and Jacob's Creek
These public parks are on the shore of Canyon Lake, both with picnic tables, boat docs, and places to swim. They are on the North Side of the Lake, close to our Ranch Retreat home.
Recreational Activities
La Cruz de Comal Winery
La Cruz's wines are made from Texas hill country grapes and focus on harnessing what the hill country has to offer. Stop by their tasting room for an authentic and enjoyable experience.
Lakeside Golf Club
Lakeside's 18 hole course moves with the hill country and will challenge your abilities.
Genarro's Trattoria
Genarro's is our favorite restaurant in Canyon Lake! Its classic Italian menu has recipes that have been passed down for generations, and you are sure to remember your meal here all the way back home.
Whitewater Amphitheater
The Whitewater Amphitheater is an outdoor concert venue in between New Braunfels and Canyon Lake. Check out their performance schedules to see who is playing during your stay!
Nearby Cities and Towns
New Braunfels, TX
Several festivals take place in New Braunfels every year, including Wurst Fest, a nationally recognized German beer and pretzel festival. You can also take a trip to New Braunfels to visit Schlitterbahn, the nation's most popular summertime waterpark.
San Marcos, TX
San Marcos Premium Outlets and the Tanger Outlets are located right next to each other in San Marcos. If you get a shopping bug, they have outlets by Ralph Lauren, Nike, Gap, Tory Burch, Adidas, The Pottery Barn, and more!
Gruene, TX
Gruene is home to the historic Gristmill Restaurant and Gruene Hall, Texas's oldest dance hall. Every week, Gruene Hall hosts their "Two Ton Tuesdays." Doors open at 7:30pm for a $5 concert for you to dance along with or listen to from their open picnic area.
