Cranes Mill Park
4.36697 reviewsUS Army Corps of Engineers, Attention Cranes Mill Park, 601 COE Road, Canyon Lake, TX 78133
Cranes Mill Park
$26.00 - $35.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$26.00
Hookup Site Fee$35.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Camping fees range from $26 per night for tent-only sites (electric or non-electric) to $35 per night for RV sites with electricity.
About this campground
Perched on a scenic peninsula that juts into the southwestern shores of Canyon Lake, Cranes Mill Park offers an enchanting escape where pristine waters meet Texas Hill Country charm. Here, mornings begin with deer grazing near your campsite and evenings end with spectacular sunsets painting the sky above the lake's glassy surface. The park's thoughtfully maintained facilities blend seamlessly with the natural landscape, creating a perfect basecamp for both relaxation and adventure.
Cranes Mill Park accommodates various camping styles, including RV camping with electric and water hookups, and tent camping. Group camping and luxury options like glamping are not supported.
Historical SignificanceYour stay at Cranes Mill places you at the crossroads of natural beauty and Texas heritage. Just a short drive away, the charming Gruene Historic District beckons with its preserved 1800s architecture, legendary dance halls, and authentic German-Texan culture. Venture underground at the nearby Natural Bridge Caverns, where 60-foot natural limestone bridges and stunning formations tell a 10,000-year-old geological story that captivates visitors of all ages.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the gentle rhythm of Texas seasons at Cranes Mill, where warm summer days give way to peaceful evenings perfect for stargazing by the water's edge. As autumn arrives, crisp mornings might greet you with a delicate frost that sparkles on the grass before the sun warms the day. The park truly shines during peak season when blue skies and comfortable temperatures create ideal conditions for swimming, fishing, and exploring the surrounding hill country.
ElevationFrom your elevated perch on this distinctive peninsula, sweeping vistas unfold in every direction. The park's unique topography offers commanding views across Canyon Lake's 8,230 acres of crystal-clear water, while glimpses of the winding Guadalupe River remind you of the powerful forces that carved this stunning landscape. Each campsite benefits from this natural amphitheater setting, where the gentle slope toward the water creates perfect sightlines for sunset watching.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to nature's symphony at Cranes Mill, where each day brings new wildlife encounters and breathtaking scenic moments. Watch as white-tailed deer emerge from the tree line at dawn, while playful squirrels and curious armadillos explore the campground throughout the day. The peninsula setting creates a front-row seat for nature's daily spectacle—from golden sunrises that illuminate the morning mist to fiery sunsets that transform the lake into a mirror of color. Foxes pad silently through the evening shadows while raccoons begin their nocturnal adventures, and overhead, hawks, herons, and songbirds create an ever-changing aerial display.
Geological RegionNestled in the heart of the legendary Texas Hill Country, Cranes Mill Park showcases the region's signature landscape where ancient limestone cliffs meet modern reservoir waters. The peninsula's unique geography—carved by centuries of water flow from the Guadalupe River—creates a natural sanctuary surrounded on three sides by the sparkling waters of Canyon Lake. This distinctive setting provides habitat for diverse wildlife while offering visitors an intimate connection with one of Texas's most beloved geological regions, where rolling hills, clear springs, and rocky outcrops define the timeless character of the landscape.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThis park offers a mix of accessible features, but detailed descriptions are missing. Some reviews noted spacious sites accessible for all types of vehicles.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious, often accommodating larger RVs or multiple tents comfortably.
Sites PrivacySites are well-spaced, offering moderate privacy, particularly praised in user reviews for being roomy enough to maintain distance between neighbors.
Total Campsites64 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites on the outer loop for better lake views. Some inner loop sites may have less desirable views due to obstruction by larger RVs.
Best CampsitesSites 14 and 18 are highly recommended for their proximity to water and scenic views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
3PM
Check-out
2PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 nights during a visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 10 guests per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into two loops: RV sites (Loop 1) and tent sites (Loop 2). Sites are spaced far apart for privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round; peak season is from April 1 to September 30.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityReservations required; no walk-up or first-come-first-served sites are available.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations are subject to a $10 fee and may forfeit the first night's fee if canceled within one day before arrival. Late cancellations may also incur additional penalties.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Cranes Mill Park offers a variety of recreational activities suitable for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Popular activities include fishing from the two piers, observing local wildlife, and boating, with a convenient ramp located within the park. "The fishing dock and boat ramp are great," noted one camper. Swimming areas are however not officially designated, and accessibility to the lake shore for swimming is described as challenging due to rocks and vegetation. Hiking and biking opportunities are limited to paved pathways within the park.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are limited to paved roads within the park. Some reviews mention exploring paths in the tent camping area during colder months.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity here. "Caught plenty of nice fish, including catfish and bass," one user noted. The fishing dock is easily accessible and suitable for all skill levels.Biking
Biking is possible on paved park roads, suitable for families and children. However, trails are not specially designated.Boating
A boat ramp and adjacent marina make Cranes Mill Park a convenient spot for boating activities. The ramp allows easy access to Canyon Lake. Some campers have rented campsites just to use the boat ramp.Wildlife viewing
Deer and other wildlife are prevalent. "Lots of deer sightings," said one camper. Birds such as Cardinals and Mockingbirds are commonly seen.Winter Activities
During winter, campers reported heaters in restrooms and enjoyed seasonal wildlife sightings.Water Sports
Kayaking and paddleboarding are common activities facilitated by easy lake access from the boat ramp.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings; however, county fire bans may apply.
- Quiet hours are from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsIncludes steep inclines and potential wildlife hazards; visitors are advised not to interact directly with wildlife.
Weather forecast
94
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 29%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 9 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services include Canyon Lake Fire/EMS and Guadalupe Regional Medical Center in New Braunfels.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 1 to September 30
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities available on-site, but no recycling facilities noted. Trash management received mixed reviews with some campers citing overflowing bins during peak occupancy.
Proximity to water featuresClose proximity to Canyon Lake and the Guadalupe River; features two fishing piers and a boat ramp.
Common complaintsComplaints about gate attendants being overly strict and bathrooms sometimes not cleaned often during peak seasons.
HostHosts are generally friendly and available. Past reviews indicate inconsistent behavior among gate attendants.
Campground Map
US Army Corps of Engineers, Attention Cranes Mill Park, 601 COE Road, Canyon Lake, TX 78133
Driving directionsFrom IH 35 take Exit 191 north of New Braunfels, Texas. FM 306 is exit 191. Drive west on FM 306 for about 14 miles. Turn left on FM 2673 at the red light just after the first Guadalupe River crossing. Cranes Mill Park is located at the westernmost end of FM 2673 and South Cranes Mill Road. Drive until FM 2673 goes down to a two-lane road going through a neighborhood. Continue through the neighborhood. You will go down a steep incline and be at a Y in the road. Go left at the Y and you have entered the park. The gatehouse is at the far end of the road past the marina.
The park is accessible via paved roads. Seasonal closures or steep inclines are noted in the directions, including a steep incline at the end before entering the park.Nearby places
New Braunfels (14 miles), Canyon Lake town center (approximately 5 miles), San Antonio (approximately 40 miles), Austin (approximately 60 miles)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in nearby Canyon Lake (approximately 5 miles away)
larger stores such as H-E-B and Walmart are in New Braunfels, about 14 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.4
697 reviews
Cranes Mill Park is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, user reviews for Cranes Mill Park are highly positive, with consistent praise for cleanliness, spacious sites, and scenic lake views. Some negative feedback includes strict check-in policies and maintenance issues during busy times. "The sites are spacious, well-maintained, and quiet," noted one user, though another warned, "Bathrooms weren't cleaned during our 4-day stay."
Review Summaries
Based on 697 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean bathrooms, spacious and level sites, scenic views, and friendly staff. "Great to relax and enjoy the view," said one camper.
Based on 697 reviewsCommon Concerns
Strict check-in times, occasional maintenance delays, lack of swimming access, and challenges with grass and weeds. "Bathrooms need updating and better cleaning," said another.
Based on 697 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Book in advance for RV sites due to high demand. Bring swimming shoes for rocky shores and additional TP for restrooms. "Pick sites with shade," one user advised.
Based on 697 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Winter reviews emphasize the park's ability to provide heaters in restrooms and tranquil surroundings. Summer reviews highlight challenges with swimming and busier crowds.
Based on 697 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Beautiful sites with views of the lake," "Gatekeeper was strict but polite," "Fishing was great," "Bathrooms clean during weekdays but not weekends," "No shaded trails, but paved roads for walking...
Based on 697 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 13 praised for its proximity to bathrooms. Site 17 favored for stunning lake views. Site 18 noted for slope issues but great sunsets.
Based on 697 reviewsAccessibility Features
Sites are described as accessible for all vehicles, with roomy spaces accommodating larger RVs.
Based on 697 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed and welcomed, but grass burrs are a common concern for dog owners.
Based on 697 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025