Fishing
A Popular Fishing Destination
As the Water Recreation Capital of Texas, it is no surprise that Canyon Lake has become a popular fishing destination. Texas Parks and Wildlife’s Inland Fisheries Division annually stocks various sport fish species like Striped Bass, Largemouth Bass, and Black Crappie.
For more information click HERE.
Fish Attractor Project
The running conservation project by the Canyon Bass Club in cooperation with Texas Parks and Wildlife, WORD, and the Army Corps of Engineers assembled, transported, and distributed 21 fish attractors into the lake.
These artificial habitats mimic trees. They are placed underwater to attract most cover-seeking species like sunfish, crappie, and large-mouth bass. Sometimes big catfish will hide in the cover as well.
For specific coordinates click HERE.
Boating
Public Boat Ramps & Operations
Boating is a popular activity on Canyon Lake. WORD operates boat ramps within its two parks, including ramps 3, 4, and 18. Additionally, there are multiple public ramps located around the lake that are managed by other entities. Ramp availability can change due to water levels, maintenance, or seasonal closures.
Before heading out, please check the operational status of all boat ramps on the lake through official updates from the operating entities. For information on the location and operating entities of boat ramps on Canyon Lake click HERE.
Swimming
Swimming and Shoreline Access
Canyon Lake, nicknamed “The Jewel ” of the Texas Hill Country, offers beautiful, clear water for swimming. Both WORD operated parks, Canyon Park and Comal Park, provide designated shoreline access for swimming when they are open and operational. Visitors should always use caution, as there are no lifeguards on duty. Standard WORD rules apply, including no glass or foam containers anywhere along the shoreline or in the water.
Parks
Explore Canyon Lake’s Parks
There are several public recreational parks along the shoreline of Canyon Lake. WORD operates two of them, Canyon Park and Comal Park. Both are day-use only, require no reservations, and offer shoreline access, picnic areas, and scenic lake views. Standard WORD rules apply, including no glass or foam containers.
For operational status of all Parks on Canyon Lake, click HERE.
Hiking
Hiking in the Hill Country
WORD maintains two designated hiking trails around Canyon Lake for visitors to enjoy. The Madrone Trail located in Canyon Park is free, open year-round, and offers several miles of natural Hill Country scenery with lake views and diverse wildlife. Comal Park also features a hiking trail available during the park’s operational season, providing a shorter, family-friendly option close to the shoreline with a beautiful overlook of Canyon Lake.
Additional hiking opportunities around the lake are managed by other agencies, including the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. No matter which trail you choose, be prepared for natural terrain, bring plenty of water, and follow all posted park rules—especially the no glass or foam container regulations in WORD-managed areas.




