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Corpus Christi Boat and Jet Ski Rentals
Corpus Christi is famous for its bay and beaches, but for a freshwater lake day with a surf boat and jet skis, locals head inland. Lake Corpus Christi near Mathis is about 40 minutes up I-37, and Choke Canyon Reservoir, which supplies much of the city’s water, is a little over an hour away with a big state park on its shore.
Book a Corpus Christi Area Lake Day
MasterCraft surf and wake boats for 12 to 18 people, three-seat Sea-Doos, a Kawasaki stand-up jet ski and water toys for every age, all ready at the lake when you arrive. Book online in a few minutes, or call or text 888-205-7119 any day from 7am to 10pm.
Best Lakes Near Corpus Christi
| Lake | From Corpus Christi | Why go |
|---|---|---|
| Lake Corpus Christi | About 40 minutes | A big Nueces River lake near Mathis with a state park, boat ramps and room for water skiing. |
| Choke Canyon Reservoir | About an hour and 10 minutes | A 26,000-acre reservoir near Three Rivers with lots of open water and a two-unit state park. |
Drive times are rough estimates from central Corpus Christi without traffic.
Corpus Christi Lake Days
A break from the wind and salt
When the bay is choppy, an inland lake is often the calmer choice for surfing, skiing and tubing.
Camping weekends
Both state parks have campsites right by the water, so you can ride in the evening and again the next morning.
Family days
Bring the cooler and the kids, anchor in a calm spot and set out the lily pad.
Popular Spots on Corpus Christi Area Lakes
We confirm the exact meeting spot when you book.
- Lake Corpus Christi State Park: just west of Mathis, with two improved two-lane ramps, campsites and picnic areas.
- Choke Canyon State Park, Calliham Unit: campgrounds right on the shore and a launch on the north side of the reservoir.
- Choke Canyon State Park, South Shore Unit: a day-use area near the dam with open water close by.
Rentals for Corpus Christi Groups
Away from the bay’s wind and salt, a MasterCraft surf boat rental for 12 to 18 people gets you calm freshwater surf sessions that are hard to find on the coast. Three-seat Sea-Doo waverunners are great for exploring the upper lake toward the Nueces River, tubes and lily pads fill the afternoon, and a captain keeps the day relaxed.
Tips for Corpus Christi Groups
- Freshwater lakes only. Our boats and jet skis run on freshwater lakes like Lake Corpus Christi and Choke Canyon, not the bay or the Gulf.
- Mind the no-wake zones. Slow down near the campgrounds and ramps at Lake Corpus Christi State Park.
- Watch for wildlife. Alligators live at both lakes, so swim only in designated areas and keep an eye out.
- Plan for the heat. South Texas summers are hot; bring plenty of water and shade.
- Bring cash or a card for park fees. Both state parks charge an entrance fee.
Lake Corpus Christi or Choke Canyon?
Lake Corpus Christi is the easy choice, about 40 minutes up I-37 near Mathis, with a state park, two-lane ramps and enough room for surfing, skiing and tubing. Choke Canyon Reservoir is a bigger, more remote trip near Three Rivers, with lots of open water and campgrounds right on the shore, better suited to a full day or a weekend. Both are reservoirs whose levels drop in dry years, so we confirm the best meeting spot for your date.
More Areas We Serve
See our Lake Corpus Christi guide for parks and rules. Heading inland, our San Antonio page covers Canyon Lake and the Hill Country, and Laredo covers Lake Casa Blanca and Falcon. Browse all areas we serve for more.