The community of Canyon Lake is centered around a reservoir of the same name, called the “Water Recreation Capital of Texas” and the “Jewel of Texas Hill Country” by the local Chamber of Commerce. Since its creation in 1964, the lake has been a popular venue for camping, swimming and boating. As of 2020, just over 31,000 people live in Canyon Lake and many others visit from San Antonio, Austin and Houston on weekends. The economy is based mainly on outdoor recreation and tourism, especially during the peak season between March and November.
Hill Country and Canyon Lake are situated between San Antonio and Austin, Texas.
Residents love to swim, fish, and kayak in Canyon Lake.
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Hiking and camping by the lake and Guadalupe River
Parks, campsites and marinas surround Canyon Lake’s 80 miles of shoreline, offering boating, fishing, swimming and scuba diving. “You’ve got lots of live music in every direction, and in the summer season, there are activities on the lake and tubing on the rivers,” says Suzanne Raku, a Realtor with Keller Williams Heritage, who is based in Canyon Lake. Cranes Mill Park and Potter’s Creek Park have lakeside campsites, while the Canyon Lake Gorge and James C. Curry Nature Center offer hiking through the woods and along the Guadalupe River. Live music fans can head to Whitewater Amphitheater, an outdoor venue on the river.
Potters Creek Park has scenic trails and campgrounds in Canyon Lake.
Locals of Canyon Lake frequent Potters Creek Park for boating, swimming, and fishing.
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Waterfront Canyon Lake Hills and private Oak Shores
Canyon Lake consists of small, unincorporated communities like Sattler, Startzville and Canyon City, as well as long-standing subdivisions like Canyon Lake Hills and gated neighborhoods such as Oak Shores. The median price in Canyon Lake is $424,990, higher than the San Antonio median of $291,000 and the New Braunfels median of $350,000. However, Canyon Lake’s status as a census-designated area reduces the cost of living. “What is great is it’s outside city limits, so you’re only paying county taxes, and it’s cheaper than San Antonio and New Braunfels,” says Heather Roberts, a Realtor with Berkshire Hathaway Home Services who has lived in the area for 20 years.
Several beautiful waterways span Canyon Lake.
Homes in Hill Country and the Canyon Lake area sit on large lots.
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Italian at Gennaro's and breakfast at Granny D’s
Canyon Lake has a diverse selection of locally owned restaurants surrounding the water. Gennaro's Trattoria offers classic Southern Italian fare and wine pairings, while Granny D’s specializes in comfort food for breakfast and lunch. “You get giant pancakes that cover the entire plate,” Robert says. “It’s definitely not where you want to go on a diet, but it’s everyone’s favorite.” While Canyon Lake has no large malls, The Village at Stone Oak in San Antonio and San Marcos Premium Outlets are two nearby shopping centers.
Granny D's provides a taste of southern cooking in Canyon Lake.
Baja Bar and Grill is a local favorite in Canyon Lake.
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Startzville fireworks and Sattler holiday cheer
Residents of Canyon Lake come together for annual festivals and celebrations, from the Canyon Lake Area Chamber BBQ Cook-Off every April to the Startzville Independence Day Parade and the Sattler Christmas Parade. The Heritage Museum of Texas Hill Country has year-round educational programs and displays, including a collection of over 200 dinosaur footprints discovered between Startzville and Sattler.
Comal Independent School District earns an A
Comal Independent School District has an overall A grade on Niche and is among the Top 10 districts in the San Antonio area. The Canyon Lake area has highly rated schools like A-rated Rebecca Creek Elementary School and A-minus-rated Canyon Lake High School. Texas State University, which is located in neighboring San Marcos, is known for its strong science and technology programs.
Students can grow and learn at the beautiful campus of Smithson Valley High School in Canyon Lake.
Younger students in Canyon Lake attend Mt. Valley Elementary, home of the Hawks.
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Positioned between San Antonio and Austin
There are no public transportation services around Canyon Lake, so locals rely on cars to get to surrounding cities. Highway 281 connects to San Antonio, 45 miles away. State Highway 46 is the most direct route to New Braunfels, a 20-mile drive away. New Braunfels has the closest hospitals and is also a connector to Interstate 35, which runs between San Antonio and Austin. Canyon Lake is 35 miles from San Antonio International Airport and 66 miles from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport.
Canyon Lake changes during floods and droughts
The area generally has hot, humid summers and mild to cool winters. The lake is also prone to flooding and droughts, impacting water levels throughout the year.
The Comal County Sheriff’s Office reported a 1% increase in property crimes and 12% increase in violent crime between 2022 and 2023. Incidents usually drop in winter. September through November had the highest number of reports in 2022 and 2023, while January had the least reports in both years.
Written By
Delaney Murray
Photography Contributed By
Austin Rowdy Winters
Video By
Rebecca Askin
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Kristen Schramme,
an experienced agent in this area.
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On average, homes in Canyon Lake, TX sell after 119 days on the market compared to the national average of 54 days. The median sale price for homes in Canyon Lake, TX over the last 12 months is $409,990, up 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
** MOVE-IN READY! ** LOW RATE AVAILABLE ** Welcome to your stunning new home in the master planned community of Meyer Ranch in New Braunfels, Texas! This two-story home boasts a beautiful hill country exterior elevation with a charming front porch, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. As you enter this spacious home, you'll find a primary bedroom on the main floor, complete with bay windows
Thoughtfully and beautifully designed CUSTOM HOME for anyone wanting or needing an OPEN and EASY FLOWING floor plan. Plenty of interior space. EXTRA WIDE doorways and hallways, a WALK-IN jacuzzi tub, and a unique PASS THRU GARAGE with circular drive make entering and exiting a breeze. A great forever home that offers EASY MOBILITY.Built in 2019, this single family residence has a private tree
This stunning 4-bedroom, 3.5-bath home offers 3,217 sqft of contemporary living space in the prestigious Vintage Oaks community. With high ceilings and sleek, modern design elements throughout, this home features an open-concept floor plan perfect for entertaining and everyday living. The spacious chef's kitchen has high-end appliances, a large island, and custom cabinetry, seamlessly connecting
Welcome to your dream getaway or income-producing investment in Rio Guadalupe! This beautifully maintained third-floor riverfront condo overlooks the peaceful Guadalupe River and is nestled within a sought-after gated community. Whether you're enjoying the community swimming pool or stepping down to the riverfront for tubing and relaxation, this location offers the best of Hill Country living.
Welcome to this striking custom-built estate perched atop 2.16 acres in the prestigious Mystic Shores community of Spring Branch-offering commanding views of Canyon Lake and over 4,200 square feet of sophisticated living. Built in 2020 and gently lived in by the builder himself, this home blends modern elegance with thoughtful craftsmanship throughout. Step inside through solid metal and glass
Seller is offering a $10k credit toward BUYERS CLOSING COSTS AND/OR INTEREST RATE REDUCTION!This beautifully remodeled, ground-level 2-bedroom, 2-bath condo features an open floor plan. Perfect for relaxing or entertaining, the kitchen is fully equipped with stainless steel appliances, granite countertops. Enjoy the privacy of a split floor plan, with both bedrooms offering their own ensuite
Welcome to your Hill Country retreat near Canyon Lake! This beautifully maintained 4-bedroom, 3.5-bath home sits on a fully fenced one-acre lot with a private electric gate, just one mile from the boat ramp. From the moment you arrive, you'll appreciate the circular driveway, two-car garage, and extra parking pad for guests or toys. Inside, the spacious living room features high ceilings, a cozy
Unmatched Hill Country & Golf Course Views Await at 412 Shayla Lane! Discover Canyon Lake living at its finest in this stunning former model home, perfectly positioned on nearly half an acre of scenic tranquility. With sweeping views of both the golf course and the surrounding Hill Country, every corner of this property feels like a private retreat. Step inside to an open, light-filled floor plan
Situated on a quiet cul-de-sac in Spring Branch, this home offers privacy, versatility, and thoughtful design on a beautiful 2.22-acre fenced lot in the heart of the Texas Hill Country. This 2,832 square foot home is well suited for multigenerational living and enhanced accessibility. The main residence features 3 bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms, wide hallways, no carpet throughout, and a walk-in
MOTIVATED SELLER!! If you have been looking for the right home in the Spring Branch/Canyon Lake area with plenty of space and privacy look no further than 4575 Tanglewood Trail! This traditional style, 1 story, brick house situated on a 2.7-acre lot is tucked away on the back side of Tanglewood Trail in a quiet and serene area of Cypress Cove. This beautiful home was built in 2002 by the one and
MILES AND MILES OF TEXAS.....EXCEPTIONAL VIEWS! Great remodel. Super fun Bungalow. Small bedrooms but great living area. Great for 1 or 2 people. Ground access on both the first and second floors. Lots of outdoor living area as well.... Super modern and absolutely charming! Great STARTER home. Outstanding views from literally EVERY room in the house (except the restrooms). Located in the very
OPEN HOUSE: Open to the public on January 10th from 11-2pm!! Come take a look!! Step into this stunning 3-bedroom, 2-bath mid-century modern home in the heart of Canyon Lake, where clean lines, bright spaces, and timeless style come together beautifully. This one-owner property has been exceptionally maintained and feels like new from the moment you walk in. Inside, you'll find an inviting bright
Beautiful Canyon Lake home offering the perfect blend of comfort, views, and lake-life living. Ideally located near Brookshire Brothers, local shops and restaurants, as well as boat ramps, public waterfront parks, and jogging trails, this home puts you right in the heart of everything Canyon Lake has to offer. Enjoy two spacious back balconies, both capturing incredible Hill Country and water
This is a great, 3-bedroom 2 bath traditional style home on a large .69-acre lot in the lovely, lakeside neighborhood of Canyon Lake Village West! You will absolutely love the huge park-like back yard completely shaded by many, beautiful, mature trees. Fully fenced front and back. BRAND-NEW ROOF and A/C UNIT 2024! Inside this home you will find "great bones" and a blank canvas ready for you to
Experience lakeside living in this exquisite 4,219 sq ft waterfront home, complete with an additional 1 bed, 1 bath 672 sq ft guest apartment. Backing right up to the lake and Boat Ramp 8, this property offers unmatched convenience with a dedicated boat storage which can be accessed directly from the ramp, making it a dream for water-sport enthusiasts. This custom residence features a NEW ROOF,
Two story home with 2 bedrooms, 1.5 baths upstairs. 3rd bedroom w/full bath, game room & laundry area (in garage) is downstairs. Upstairs is an open floorplan w/updated Kitchen that offers granite counters, SS appliances, smooth top oven range, breakfast bar. Frig & water softener is included. The large living/dining area features high ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows & views of Canyon Lake.
Amazing views of Canyon Lake from your own living room, enjoy the outdoors and feel like your in the trees on your spacious covered deck with an elevated walk-way to separate private huge balcony, RV and or boat parking, features of custom-built living at its finest, 4 bedrooms or you can use one of the bedroom down for study Kitchen opens to the family room and all new insulated windows
Norman Frenk
Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Gary Greene - Bay Area
MOVE-IN READY- PAINTED & CLEANED. BEAUTIFUL TOWNHOUSE STYLED DUPLEX. TWO STORY, 2 BEDROOMS WITH ATTACHED BATHROOMS. HALF BATHROOM DOWNSTAIRS NEXT TO UTILITY ROOM (CONNECTIONS ONLY). NEWLY USED APPLIANCES INCLUDED SUCH AS REFRIGERATOR, DISHWASHER, BUILT-IN MICROWAVE, AND OVEN. 15X16 LIVING FAMILY ROOM. HIGH CEILINGS, ENERGY-EFFICIENT LIGHT FIXTURES, & CEILING FANS. OPEN FLOORPLAN, EAT-IN KITCHEN,
Country living at its finest: a well maintained Hill Country home situated at the top of a hill, at the end of a cul de sac, providing privacy and beautiful natural surroundings. This 2 bedroom 2 bath home with a vaulted ceiling in the living room provides just the right sense of cozy and open and inviting. Located just 5 minutes from the local grocery store, gas stations, restaurants, and Canyon
MOVE-IN READY- PAINTED & CLEANED. BEAUTIFUL TOWNHOUSE STYLED DUPLEX. TWO STORY, 2 BEDROOMS WITH ATTACHED BATHROOMS. HALF BATHROOM DOWNSTAIRS NEXT TO UTILITY ROOM (CONNECTIONS ONLY). NEWLY USED APPLIANCES INCLUDED SUCH AS REFRIGERATOR, DISHWASHER, BUILT-IN MICROWAVE, AND OVEN. 15X16 LIVING FAMILY ROOM. HIGH CEILINGS, ENERGY-EFFICIENT LIGHT FIXTURES, & CEILING FANS. OPEN FLOORPLAN, EAT-IN KITCHEN,
Gorgeous Hilltop3 Story Lake View Home ?Enjoy the best of Hill Country living in this stunning, fully renovated home with breathtaking lake views! Perfect for families, this spacious residence offers a downstairs master suite and three generously sized bedrooms upstairs. The kitchen has been completely remodeled with brand-new appliances, making it a chef’s dream. Step outside to your private
OWNERS WILL CONSIDER A SHORTER TERM LEASE. AVAILABLE NOW! Enjoy Texas living at its best in this two year old, beautiful 4 bedroom/2.5 bath home with a fantastic game room & study cubby in highly sought after Meyer Ranch Subdivision. NO BACK NEIGHBORS, fenced yard, covered back patio, soaring ceilings, wood-look tile in all wet areas, window blinds, and ceiling fans in all bedrooms. Many upgrades
MILES AND MILES OF TEXAS.....EXCEPTIONAL VIEWS! Great remodel. Super fun Bungalow. Small bedrooms but great living area. Great for 1 or 2 people. Access on both the first and second floors. Lots of outdoor living area as well. $1795 per mo. plus utilities. 1 year minimum I am the managing member for the Owner as well as a Licensed RE Broker.
Adorable Hill Country Home! Come see this charming singlewide mobile home tucked away on over half an acre, surrounded by mature trees and peaceful wildlife. You'll love the frequent visits from deer right outside your window! This 3-bedroom, 2 bath home has been beautifully remodeled and is ready for move-in. Features include a carport and additional storage building. Home is offered unfurnished.
**Fully Furnished**Welcome to 254 Ridgerock Dr in Canyon Lake. This well-located property offers Hill Country living just minutes from the lake, parks, and local amenities. Enjoy a peaceful neighborhood setting with easy access to outdoor recreation, dining, and shopping. Ideal for full-time living or a weekend retreat, this home provides a great opportunity to experience the relaxed Canyon
Super Cute Remodeled 2 bd/1.5 bath with new tile flooring throughout (low-allergies), new bathrooms, new kitchen, new roof, new windows, new HVAC all as of 2020. Great Hill Country views. Voluntary HOA with Mt. Lookout, with membership (Landlord pays) you have access to Mt. Lookout Canyon Lake Waterfront park. Canyon Lake Dam within walking distance (less than 1 mile). This house is a BUNKER.
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