banner
Home / News / Here's where to float the river near Austin, Texas this summer
News

Here's where to float the river near Austin, Texas this summer

Mar 25, 2023Mar 25, 2023

There is a direct correlation between temperatures skyrocketing and Texans taking to the rivers and lakes across the state. Tubing, or floating the river, is a highly popular and economical activity, with no age limitations. Across Central Texas, there are multiple options for those seeking out a relaxing weekend activity.

Popular with adults and children alike, the San Marcos River makes for a lulling tubing experience in the refreshing 72-degree water. The best points of entry are at Texas State Tubes (2024 North Old Bastrop Hwy, San Marcos), the Lions Club Tube Rentals (170 Charles Austin Drive, San Marcos) and Don's Fish Camp (105 Nelle Ln, Martindale).

The Comal is a popular river to float for those wanting to have a multi-watersports day and make a stop at Schlitterbahn Waterpark. The river does adhere to a strict ban on anything disposable, namely cans, so it is best to plan ahead and bring reusable bottles. Points of entry are located at Texas Tubes (250 Meusebach St, New Braunfels), Landa Falls (133 Landa St, New Braunfels), and 444 Tubing (444 E San Antonio St, New Braunfels).

More:Austin is magical in the summer. Here are 12 things you must do

For those wanting a more DIY approach to floating a river, the Pedernales Falls State Park (2585 Park Road 6026, Johnson City) is a great option to get away from crowds, because it does not have any commercial tube rentals. However, it is not for the faint of heart, given that the current can pick up, and quickly turn into rapids. The river floating can be combined with hiking through the park and camping overnight.

Furthest afield from Austin, the Guadalupe River's water levels are controlled by the Canyon Lake dam. Drought conditions during the summer tubing season can also affect the water levels, so it's best to check with tubing companies before journeying out. There are numerous points of entry along the river, but among the most popular are the Guadalupe State Park (​​3350 Park Road 31, Spring Branch), Bergheim Campground (103 White Water Road, Boerne), WhiteWater Sports (11860 FM306 New Braunfels) and Tube Haus (12454 FM 306, Canyon Lake).

More:22 Austin pools and Central Texas swimming holes to visit this summer

Here are some tips and tricks to make your tubing experience a floating success:

More: More: