Medina Lake

Medina Lake is the deep, clear Hill Country lake closest to San Antonio’s northwest side: a long canyon lake between Lakehills, Pipe Creek and Mico, with limestone bluffs and water up to about 150 feet deep. Its dam was finished in 1913, and at the time it was the largest dam in Texas. When the lake is up, it is one of the best surf and ski lakes in South Texas.

The lake is about 40 miles northwest of San Antonio, roughly 45 minutes from Loop 1604. Medina is an irrigation lake with a small watershed, so its level swings more than most. Big Hill Country rains have brought it back up in 2026, and we will always confirm the best launch spot for current conditions when you book.

Medina Lake Quick Facts

Where to Launch and Meet Up

Medina’s ramps open and close as the water rises and falls, so check which ones are usable the week of your trip.

• Bandera County Medina Lake Park: at the end of Park Road 37 in Lakehills, on Plum Creek Cove. The county closes boat launching here when the water is too low, and the park charges a cash entry fee.
• Mico side: a privately operated ramp and marinas off FM 1283 near Mico, with a gravel bank that boats can use when the water is below the ramp.
• We’ll confirm your spot: tell us your plans when you book and we will confirm the best place to meet for current lake conditions.

Where to Ride, Surf and Tube

Use the deep main lake. The main body near the dam is wide and very deep, with plenty of room for surf passes and tubing.

Cruise the canyons slowly. The upper lake narrows into a winding canyon. Take it at a relaxed pace and enjoy the cliffs.

Watch for hazards when the lake is low. Lower water exposes old docks, trees and rock ledges. Slow down near shore and in coves you do not know.

Surf early. Mornings are usually the calmest, before the wind and weekend traffic pick up.

Rentals That Fit Medina Lake

Deep, clear water makes Medina a great surf lake. A MasterCraft surf boat rental seats 12 to 18 people and throws a clean wave on the calm main lake, and a couple of Sea-Doo jet skis are a fun way to explore the canyons. Add tubes, wakeboards and a floating lily pad, or book a captained charter so nobody has to drive. Everything is ready at the lake when you arrive, and life jackets are available for everyone on board.

Tips for a Smoother Lake Day

• Check the lake first. Medina can rise or fall many feet in a single season. Check the lake level and ramp status the week of your trip.
• Bring cash for the county park. Bandera County Medina Lake Park takes cash only for entry.
• Pair it with Bandera. Bandera, the Cowboy Capital of the World, is about half an hour west for dinner after the lake.
• Have a backup. If Medina is too low, Canyon Lake and the Guadalupe Valley lakes are about an hour away.

Rules on the Water

• Jet skis must be off the water between sunset and sunrise. Everyone riding wears a life jacket, and the driver keeps the safety lanyard clipped on.
• Stay at least 50 feet from other boats, swimmers, docks and the shoreline unless you are at idle speed.
• Life jackets are available for everyone on board, and kids should wear one any time the boat is moving.
• When you tow a rider, keep someone on board watching them the whole time, and wrap up towing before dark.
• Drain all water from the boat, the ballast and your gear before you leave the lake. It is Texas law, and it helps stop the spread of zebra mussels.

More Lakes Near San Antonio

Canyon Lake is about an hour northeast, and Lake Dunlap, Lake McQueeney and Lake Placid sit along the Guadalupe River east of the city. See our San Antonio boat rentals page, or browse every lake we serve on our destinations page.

Find Medina Lake on the Map