
If you’re planning a trip to Canyon Lake and bringing your boat, kayak, canoe, or paddleboard, knowing which boat ramps are open — and which ones are accessible — is essential.
Canyon Lake has 23 total boat ramps, managed by a mix of organizations including:
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE)
Comal County
The Water Oriented Recreation District (WORD) of Comal County
Because Canyon Lake water levels fluctuate throughout the year, ramp availability can change quickly — especially for motorized boats.
Here’s what you need to know before heading out.
Canyon Lake has 23 designated boat ramps around the lake.
These ramps are typically managed by:
USACE (Army Corps of Engineers)
Comal County Parks
WORD of Comal County
Each entity maintains its own facilities and may update ramp status independently.
Not always.
Due to changing lake levels, some boat ramps may be:
Fully open
Closed to trailers
Closed to motorized boats only
Accessible only for paddle craft
Many closures occur when water levels drop and trailers cannot safely reach the water.
Yes — in many cases.
Even when a ramp is closed to motorized boats and trailers, it is often still accessible for:
Kayaks
Canoes
Stand-up paddleboards (SUPs)
Other non-motorized watercraft
Comal County ramps frequently allow non-motorized access at:
Ramp #1
Ramp #2
Ramp #5
Ramp #6
Ramp #7
Ramp #8
Ramp #11
Ramp #22
Ramp #23
WORD-operated ramps such as:
Ramp #3
Ramp #4
Ramp #18
are also often accessible for paddle craft, even if restricted for motorized boats.
When water levels are low:
The waterline may be far beyond the end of the concrete ramp.
You may need to carry kayaks or paddleboards across exposed shoreline.
Ground conditions can be rocky or uneven.
Plan accordingly.
Conditions change rapidly at Canyon Lake.
Before heading out, check:
The official U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Canyon Lake site (for park and facility updates)
The Comal County live ramp status map
The WORD of Comal County announcements
These resources provide the most up-to-date closure information.
Because of fluctuating water levels, underwater hazards can exist.
✔ Always wear a life jacket
✔ Watch for submerged debris
✔ Be cautious of sudden drop-offs
✔ Bring water and sun protection
✔ Launch early in summer to avoid heavy boat traffic
If you’re visiting Canyon Lake for the first time, look for ramps near:
North side of Canyon Lake (closer to many vacation rentals)
Comal Park area
Potters Creek area
Cranes Mill area
These areas typically have good lake access and nearby amenities, though availability depends on lake level.
If you’re staying at one of our Canyon Lake vacation homes, we’re happy to help you:
Identify the nearest open boat ramp
Confirm current accessibility
Suggest the best launch spots for paddleboarding or kayaking
Recommend boat rental options
We include local lake tips in every guest Welcome Book to help you spend less time researching — and more time on the water.
Canyon Lake offers incredible boating, fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding — but checking ramp status before your trip is key.
With 23 boat ramps managed by multiple organizations, access is usually available somewhere — especially for paddle craft — even when lake levels fluctuate.
When in doubt, check live status maps before heading out and plan for possible equipment carry distance if using a non-motorized vessel.
Enjoy the water — and stay safe!
Wondering what your home could make as a vacation rental? Whether you’re a homeowner exploring short-term rental income, an investor analyzing returns, or a real estate agent advising clients, our expert team is here to help.
Request a Free Rental Evaluation