Finding a place to live in San Antonio usually feels like a choice between "way too expensive" or "way too loud." Most people hunting on the Northwest Side end up looking at Hidden Lake Apartments San Antonio because it promises something rare: actual peace.
It’s tucked away at 8910 N Loop 1604 W, right in the 78249 zip code. If you’ve ever driven that stretch of 1604 near UTSA, you know it’s a chaotic mess of traffic and construction. But once you turn into the complex, the noise just... stops.
The Reality of the "Hidden Lake"
Let's get the obvious thing out of the way. Is there a lake?
Yes. Honestly, it's more of a large, scenic pond, but it’s stocked for fishing. You’ll see people out there with rods and reels on the weekends. It gives the whole place a "hill country" vibe that you just don't get at the cookie-cutter complexes closer to The Rim or La Cantera.
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Living at Hidden Lake Apartments San Antonio means sharing your backyard with herons, ducks, and the occasional family of deer. It’s pretty. But, full disclosure: nature isn't always a postcard. Some residents have mentioned that the lake area can get messy with trash if the wind blows the wrong way, and you might run into a raccoon or two near the valet trash bins at night.
Layouts and Space
The floor plans have names like the Guadalupe and the Riverwalk. They range from tiny 532-square-foot studios up to 1,175-square-foot three-bedroom units.
- The Guadalupe: A 1-bedroom/1-bathroom setup. It’s tight but functional.
- The Sunset: This is the 750-square-foot 1-bedroom that most people actually want. It feels much bigger because of the garden tubs and the way the kitchen opens up.
- Two-Bedroom Units: Usually around 985 square feet. These are popular for roommates because the bedrooms are on opposite sides of the living room.
Prices shift daily, but you're typically looking at anywhere from $820 to over $1,600 depending on the season and the view.
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What’s the Catch?
No apartment is perfect. Management here is handled by BH Management, a massive company that oversees thousands of units. Generally, the office staff—people like Alexis and Madison—get high marks for being friendly. They host food trucks and community events which is a nice touch.
But the maintenance side can be a mixed bag.
Some tenants swear the response time is lighting fast. Others have complained on Reddit and Yelp about having to put in multiple requests for AC leaks or plumbing issues. It seems to depend on which building you’re in. Also, be aware of the "move-out fees." Like many big complexes in San Antonio, there are stories of people getting hit with $500 carpet replacement bills when they leave.
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Pro tip: Take photos of everything when you move in. Every stain, every scratch. You'll need them later.
Location vs. Lifestyle
You are basically sitting on the edge of everything.
You can practically walk to the movie theater and a bunch of restaurants, but you still need a car for groceries. You're five minutes from UTSA, which makes this a prime spot for grad students who want to be close to campus without living in a "party" complex.
The amenities are what you'd expect for this price point:
- A pool that actually looks like the photos (it’s well-maintained).
- A 24-hour fitness center.
- A dog park for the four-legged roommates.
- Smart home tech (locks, thermostats) in the newer renovated units.
Is It Worth It?
If you hate the sound of sirens and highway hum, Hidden Lake Apartments San Antonio is a solid choice. It’s one of the few places in the Northwest area where you can sit on your balcony and actually hear birds instead of 1604 traffic.
Just keep your eyes open. Ask to see the exact unit you’re moving into, not just the model. Check the seals on the windows and look under the sinks for any signs of past leaks.
Actionable Next Steps
- Check Availability: Prices change based on "real-time pricing," so if you see a rate you like, grab it.
- Schedule a Sunset Tour: The lake looks completely different in the evening. It’s the best time to see if the "vibe" matches what you want.
- Audit the Fees: Ask for a full breakdown of the "Smart Home" fee and Valet Trash before signing. These can add $50-$100 to your monthly base rent.
- Map Your Commute: 1604 is a beast. Drive from the complex to your job at 8:00 AM on a Tuesday before you commit.