How Deep Is Canyon Lake?
Canyon Lake at its most resounding depth is 125 feet, which is 12 stories tall! The area of the lake is 8,240 acres and it has 60 stunning miles of shoreline which is at 909 feet above mean sea level. The spillway top is 943 feet above mean sea level and the lake stores over 382,000 acre-feet or 124 billion gallons of water. Canyon Lake Dam is 6,830 feet long and provides crucial flood control for the area. The Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority is responsible for the conservation and release of water storage.
How Was Canyon Lake Created?
Canyon Lake was created when the construction of the Canyon Dam in Comal County was completed in 1964 after breaking ground in 1958. Once completed, Canyon Dam provided much-needed flood control from the Guadalupe River. It is owned and operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and is managed today by the Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority. Since 1964 when the impoundment of water began residential and commercial development quickly grew. By the 1980s over 80 neighborhoods had been built and the area was emerging as a resort and tourist destination. Additionally, this development also renewed the agriculture and manufacturing industry in the area. Located less than 50 miles from San Antonio and Austin, Canyon Lake remains a popular destination for natives and those coming from out of town. It has 8 lakeside public parks as well as 2 public marinas. Thousands come to enjoy the water, dining, and recreation that Canyon Lake has to offer.
What Existed There Before Canyon Lake?
In 1850, long before countless acres were filled with water, the area was a modest settlement for farmers and settlers traveling through the Guadalupe River Valley. However, Apache and Comanche Native American tribes inhabited the land for hundreds of years before settlers made their way to Texas. Two small towns emerged, Hancock and Crain’s Mill, respectively named after their founders. From their inception, more residents were drawn to the area and established themselves, and as a result, additional communities developed. Life in the early 1900s was good and prosperous, however, due to decreased cotton production and an abundance of boll weevils the economy was destroyed and by the 1950s hardly anyone remained. When the project of the dam was announced it reinvigorated the local economy by creating jobs in the resort and tourist industry. Additionally, with flood control and water storage provided by the dam, the agricultural industry was able to return. It wasn’t long before residential subdivisions and commercial businesses moved in and today the population of Canyon Lake is 33,000.
What Kind of Recreational Activities Are Available at Canyon Lake?
Canyon Lake is a destination for those looking to enjoy nature and all the activities the lake has to offer. Off the lake, you can golf, camp, and enjoy the fresh air while hiking. During a picturesque stroll through the Hill Country, you may encounter abundant wildlife, including foxes, road runners, white-tailed deer, and native birds. On the water, you can enjoy boating, fishing, as well as water skiing, and scuba diving. Between these activities, you can shop and dine at the local stores, enjoy a concert at the White Water Amphitheater, or visit the Heritage Museum of the Texas Hill Country.
What Is Canyon Lake Gorge?
In 2002 a gorge was created when the Guadalupe River flooded after receiving over 30 inches of torrential rain. The Hill Country was stripped of trees and even houses as the flood waters reached Canyon Lake and caused the water to crest over the spillway for the first time in history. However, after the waters receded from the historic flood a 64-acre gorge was revealed. Inside was an amazing discovery. Found in the gorge were dinosaur footprints, fossils, and cretaceous limestone dating back 145 million years. The Heritage Museum of the Texas Hill Country has preserved the dinosaur tracks for the last 20 years and is must visit for anyone interested in history and geology. Additionally, the limestone from a bygone sea exposed the seeps, fractures, and faults in the Trinity Aquifer. Those visiting the Gorge will not only enjoy the springs, waterfalls, and dinosaur tracks, but also the rich forgotten history of the Texas Hill Country. The Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority along with the Gorge Preservation Society works to protect and ensure this stunning geological occurrence will be around for generations to come.
What River Is Canyon Lake Located On?
Canyon Lake is on the Guadalupe River which travels from Kerr County down to the Gulf of Mexico, approximately 230 miles. Located near Canyon Lake are nearly 25 miles along the Guadalupe River of what is considered to be the most pristine span of white water in Texas. The river boats towering trees such as Elm, Baldcypress, and Pecan, and showcases limestone bluffs and scenic views. Recreation such as tubing, swimming, and fishing is a quintessential part of summer and can be enjoyed even in the hottest months as the river flow is managed by releases from Canyon Dam. As the Guadalupe River flows southeast towards the Gulf of Mexico is it joined by the Comal River in New Braunfels, the San Marcos River, as well as the San Antonio River. The average temperature of the river is 64 degrees making it the perfect destination all summer long.
