Calaveras Lake Park

Where It's At & What's Behind It

Tucked away about 20 miles southeast of downtown San Antonio, Texas, Calaveras Lake Park wraps around the 3,624-acre Calaveras Lake. Created in 1969, this reservoir serves primarily as a cooling pond for CPS Energy's power plants.

Just so you know - while there's plenty of fun to be had here, the lake's main job is supporting power generation. This means water levels might change depending on what the power plant needs at any given time.

Things To Do

The park has a variety of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. If you're looking to stay overnight, you've got options ranging from RV sites with full hookups to more rustic primitive camping spots.

Day-trippers can enjoy picnic areas and relaxation spots within the park. For those drawn to the water, the lake is a focal point for fishing and boating adventures. There's a paved boat ramp that makes getting onto the water pretty straightforward - though watch out for that deep drop-off at the end that several boaters have mentioned.

Fishing Scene

Calaveras is known more as a fishing destination than a swimming spot. Anglers flock here to catch red drum (redfish), hybrid striped bass, channel catfish, blue catfish, and largemouth bass.

Texas Parks & Wildlife Department regularly stocks the lake with red drum, and many people report landing impressive catches, especially redfish. If you're planning a fishing trip, bringing live bait and a cast net might improve your chances. There's a handy fish cleaning station with running water, but be prepared to share the space with the resident buzzards that seem to know exactly when the fish are being cleaned.

While Texas Parks & Wildlife considers the fish safe for consumption, some visitors have raised questions about water quality given the lake's role as a cooling pond.

Natural Surroundings

The shoreline is lined with cattails and bulrushes that create habitats for local wildlife. You can explore hiking trails and spot various birds drawn to the water, including herons, osprey, and several duck species.

Do keep an eye out for wildlife - there have been occasional alligator sightings in the lake, and snakes sometimes make appearances along the shoreline and grassy areas.

What's Available

You can find several amenities throughout the park, including picnic areas with tables and BBQ pits (some featuring steel post covers). Most picnic spots are available on a first-come basis, but you'll need to reserve certain covered areas in advance.

Kids can burn off energy at the playground, and restrooms are conveniently located around the grounds. The park office houses a small store with fishing essentials and snacks at reasonable prices.

Bringing Pets

Four-legged friends are welcome but must be leashed when not at your personal campsite. Some campers bring portable fencing to give their pets a bit more freedom at their sites.

Getting In

The park charges entrance fees that vary for adults, children, seniors, and military personnel. As of 2024, adult admission runs about $9-11. If you're a frequent visitor, annual passes offer better value. Disabled veterans should bring their documentation, as discounts may be available.