The reservoir covers approximately 525 acres (212 ha), has 14.9 miles (24.0 km) of shoreline, and has a storage capacity of 11,586 acre⋅ft (14,291,000 m3).

It is owned and operated by the Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District.

The reservoir is supplied by storm water runoff from the San Jacinto River and Salt Creek.

Residents can use golf carts and boats as a means for transportation within the community.

Canyon Lake holds many annual events for residents to enjoy, such as Taco Tuesday during the summer time and festivities during various holidays.