Are pool days becoming boring? Then why not mix it up by visiting one of the many beautiful lakes in or near San Antonio. While you may not be able to swim laps – if you enjoy that – you’ll have an array of fun activities like boating or fishing to choose from! So pack your bags, load up the car, and have some fun in the sun.
Beautiful Lakes in and near San Antonio, TX
Medina River
Medina River is a natural nature area that has roughly seven miles of trails. This river is great for fishing, camping, or even going for a small swim. With a large covered pavilion, you can even have a picnic.
Where: 15890 State Highway 16 S, San Antonio, TX 78264
Woodlawn Lake Park
Located near downtown, this park allows people to spend their time enjoying the outdoors. You can walk the trail, feed the ducks off the lake dock, or take the kids to play on the playground – all while enjoying the lake view.
Where: 1103 Cincinnati Ave, San Antonio, Texas 78201
Calaveras Lake
Calaveras Lake offers fishing, boating, and biking trails for a fun day by the lake. There are also shaded picnic tables and BBQ pits so you can make a day out of swimming and grilling.
Where: 12965 Bernhardt Rd. San Antonio, Texas 78263
Elmendorf Lake Park
Located on the west side of San Antonio, this hidden gem has a vast lake making for a perfect day outside. Along with the bird sanctuary where ducks swim, people can kayak in the water, kids can play on the jungle gym, and more.
Where: 3700 W Commerce St, San Antonio, TX 78207
Lake Placid
This reservoir is part of the Guadalupe River. Here you can fish, boat, and swim! If you’re looking to get away from the traditional lakes and rivers, then head here for a more quiet oasis.
Where: 2.5 miles west of Seguin, I-10 bridge, exit 605.
Paradise Canyon
Paradise Canyon is roughly an hour away from San Antonio and is open seven days a week. Here you can swim, set up a picnic, fish, and more. The water flows straight from the Medina River. This area makes for a day in paradise.
Where: 2220 Co Rd 2615, Rio Medina, TX 78066
Boerne City Lake Park
This park has it all. A fishing pier and boat dock, it’s the perfect place to spend a summer day. With plenty of space and spots, you’ll have enough room to set up a picnic or layout in the sun.
Where: 21 Upper Cibolo Creek Rd, Boerne, TX 78006
Comal River
While Comal River is the shortest one in Texas, it’s still a lot of fun. It’s spring water fed and is most known for the tubing experience provided. The waters are calm, but don’t be fooled, because here you can find the famous tube chute!
Where: 100 Liebscher, New Braunfels, TX 78130
Guadalupe River
The Guadalupe River is near the outskirts of San Antonio. This river runs roughly four miles! You can swim, fish, tube or canoe on the water. On the spacious greenery that’s around the water, there are hiking and biking trails, horses you can ride, picnic spots, and more.
Where: 3350 Park Rd 31, Spring Branch, TX 78070
Blue Hole Regional Park
Not too far from San Antonio is the city of Wimberly. Here you can find the Blue Hole, a park that offers trails, a playscape, a basketball court, and one of the most popular swimming holes. This is the perfect place to enjoy the clear cool water on a hot sunny day.
Where: Blue Hole Ln, Wimberley, TX 78676
Each of these lakes in or near San Antonio can offer a change from a plain pool day. While it may take some time to plan the day with snacks and more, it’ll be rewarding once you unload and enjoy the great outdoors.
Do you have a pet that might enjoy the waters? Then check out our dog-friendly hiking trail article here where you can find several dog-friendly lakes!
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