Top 6 Lakes in Bexar County

Bexar County offers a variety of lakes, including large man-made reservoirs like Calaveras Lake and Victor Braunig Lake, smaller urban lakes such as Elmendorf Lake and Woodlawn Lake, and numerous community fishing ponds. These provide diverse settings for recreation, from extensive boating and fishing to accessible family outings.

For serious anglers, Calaveras Lake and Victor Braunig Lake are popular for species like red drum, hybrid striped bass, and catfish. For more casual or family-friendly fishing, community fishing lakes like Buddy Calk Pond, Woodlawn Lake, and those within Brackenridge Park are regularly stocked by Texas Parks & Wildlife. You can find more information on community fishing lakes on the Texas Parks & Wildlife website.

Yes, several lakes are excellent for families. Woodlawn Lake offers a 62-acre park with walking trails, paddle boating, and picnic areas. Brackenridge Park features a 10-acre lake within a larger park that includes playgrounds and historical sites. Elmendorf Lake also has a park with a children's playground, splash pad, and picnic areas, making it ideal for family outings.

Many lakes in Bexar County are surrounded by trails. Woodlawn Lake has walking trails encircling its 30 acres, perfect for a stroll. Buddy Calk Pond is situated near the Leon Creek Greenway, offering easy access to numerous trails. For more extensive options, you can explore various easy hikes in Bexar County, many of which pass by or near local waterways.

Beyond fishing and walking, you can enjoy boating at Calaveras Lake, kayaking and windsurfing at Elmendorf Lake, and paddle boating at Woodlawn Lake. The areas around these lakes also connect to extensive trail networks for cycling and road cycling, offering diverse options for outdoor enthusiasts.

Yes, Brackenridge Park, home to a 10-acre lake, has a rich history dating back 12,000 years and features like the Japanese Tea Garden and historic acequias. Calaveras Lake offers a unique view of the massive power station it was created to cool, providing an interesting industrial backdrop to its natural setting.

Absolutely. Mitchell Lake, located in southern San Antonio, is a significant bird sanctuary spanning around 600 acres. It's an excellent destination for birdwatching and appreciating nature, offering a chance to observe diverse avian species.

While not strictly within Bexar County, Medina Lake and Canyon Lake are popular day trip destinations for residents. Medina Lake, about 40 miles northwest, is known for its clear water and diverse fishing. Canyon Lake, in the Central Texas Hill Country, offers stunning waterfront views, swimming, boating, and camping opportunities.

The best time to visit Bexar County lakes for outdoor activities is typically during the cooler months of fall, winter, and spring (October to April) when temperatures are more moderate. Summer can be very hot, making early mornings or late afternoons preferable for activities.

Many parks and trails around Bexar County lakes are dog-friendly, provided pets are kept on a leash. It's always a good idea to check specific park regulations before visiting, but generally, areas like Woodlawn Lake Park and the greenways connected to lakes are welcoming to leashed dogs.

Public transport options to some of the more urban lakes like Woodlawn Lake and Brackenridge Park may be available via local bus services in San Antonio. However, for larger, more remote lakes like Calaveras Lake or Victor Braunig Lake, personal vehicle transport is generally recommended.

Amenities vary by lake. Larger lakes like Calaveras Lake offer picnic tables, BBQ pits, and camping facilities. Urban lakes such as Elmendorf Lake and Woodlawn Lake often feature playgrounds, splash pads, walking trails, and picnic areas. Community fishing lakes typically provide basic access for fishing.