Spencer Canoes & Shady Grove Campground: Riverside Adventures in Martindale, TX

149 reviews

9515 FM1979, Martindale, TX 78655, USA
+1 512-357-6113

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Spencer Canoes & Shady Grove Campground Introduce

Welcome to Spencer Canoes & Shady Grove Campground, located at 9515 FM1979, Martindale, TX 78655. This campground and canoe rental service offers a unique experience for those looking to enjoy the beauty of the San Marcos River. You can reach them at (512) 357-6113 or +1 512-357-6113.

As a part of the Campgrounds & RV Parks category, Spencer Canoes & Shady Grove Campground provides both camping facilities and access to river activities. The location has a rich history, previously known as Goynes' Canoe Livery, and continues to be a popular spot for river enthusiasts.

Here are some of the key features and aspects of Spencer Canoes & Shady Grove Campground:

Riverside Location: The campground is situated on a beautiful location along the San Marcos River.
Canoe Rentals: Offers canoe rentals, allowing visitors to explore the river.
Camping Facilities: Provides camping spaces for those who wish to stay overnight.
Scenic Views: Guests can enjoy the natural beauty of the river and surrounding environment.
Historical Significance: Previously known as Goynes' Canoe Livery, it has a long-standing history of serving river visitors.

According to customer reviews, the location is highly regarded for its scenic beauty and access to the San Marcos River. One reviewer mentioned enjoying the location since the 1980's when it was Goynes' Canoe Livery. However, it is important to note that the campground has specific rules regarding pet breeds, which may impact some visitors. One reviewer expressed disappointment due to the "no aggressive breeds" policy, specifically regarding Dobermans and German Shepherds. Prospective visitors should contact the campground to confirm all current rules.

If you're looking for a place to canoe or camp along the San Marcos River, Spencer Canoes & Shady Grove Campground offers a scenic and historically rich location. Contact them for more details and to make reservations.

Details

Offerings
RV electric hookup
RV sewer hookup

Payments
Camping fee

Children
Good for kids

Parking
On-site parking

Pets
Dogs allowed

Location

Texas Guadalupe County Martindale Farm to Market Road 1979

Customer Reviews

4.0

149 reviews

Steve Takata

Jan 23, 2025

I love this place and have been coming to boat the San Marcos since the 1980's when it was Goynes' Canoe Livery. Its a beautiful location on the river and the campground looks nice even though I havent stayed there.

Nicole Foster

Aug 21, 2024

I normally don't get upset over places. There are not alot of places to camp on the river in San marcos. I called in and the campsite sounded perfect for us until they said no "aggressive breeds". I have a Doberman and a German Shepard that will just about lick you to death.. I have never came across this issue with my babies.. I felt insulted. I know it's just thier rules and that's fine. I wish this terrible stigma will change. Aggression is MADE not born..

Angel Beltran

Jun 11, 2024

The owner was very accommodating and very welcoming! It was my first time visiting and wasnt sure how to go about renting kayaks but he made the process seemless! I paid $35 per kayak and the trip itself is about 3 miles long give or take. I cannot emphasize this enough: BRING LOTS OF WATER!!!! Since it was my first time, I didnt realize how long the trip was but I warned you! It is excellent for beginners. It has a few baby rapids in the begining but is smooth sailing from there! We saw some cows along the river too!

Ian Hall

Sep 26, 2024

Nice camp ground the people leave you alone witch I love and the fishing is good as well for a bank fishing spot

Happy Camper

Dec 29, 2023

Awesome experience. The rental company was very helpful shuttling us to the end point to park my car and back to the start. The water on the river is clear and beautiful.

Chad Weaver

Jun 08, 2025

We love Spencer's! Really nice area to launch and camp. Highly recommend!!

Jim Parker

Mar 06, 2023

Thanks to Spencer Canoes & Shady Grove Campground for offering free of charge accommodations for everyone who participated in the river cleanup last weekend! They are just off the river, have restrooms and warm showers which is always appreciated when you have been paddling all day. Great place for camping and canoeing. They also offer canoe rentals.