Whether you are looking for calm day in the sun or an exciting outdoor adventure, these rivers are the best places for tubing in Texas.
One of the most idyllic summer activities is floating with your toes in the water and sunshine on your face.
Summer in Texas is the perfect time to spend a day in a lazy river while working your tan.
The ultimate guide to floating the river in Texas
There are numerous places to float the river in Texas.
The most well-known places include the Brazos River, Comal River, Guadalupe River, Medina River, San Marcos River, and South Llano River.
Pack your ice chest full of adult beverages, snacks, and plenty of water, and enjoy a leisurely float on one of these rivers in the Lone Star State.
Best Rivers to Go Tubing in Texas
Blanco River
The Texas Hill Country has numerous spots for tubing, and floating down the river at Blanco State Park is a must-do.
The river is gentle and a great option for a relaxing day in the summer.
Blanco, Texas is filled with history, shops, and great places to dine. After a day on the river, stop by Old 300 BBQ for good Texas Barbecue.
Or pack a picnic and find a spot at the Blanco State Park’s picnic pavilion to dine in some shade.
Brazos River
At 1,312 miles long, this is one of the longest rivers in the United States.
A great place to float along the Brazos River is at Possum Kingdom State Park which is located 90 miles from Fort Worth.
There is about a 20-mile section of the river that winds through limestone boulders and cliffs that make for a scenic float.
Colorado River
The crystal clear water and beautiful scenery make this an ideal spot for a tubing adventure in Texas.
This is also a great fishing river. So bring along your tackle box and pole for a chance to catch some great fish while on your float.
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Comal River
A cool 70-72 degree temperature year round, makes the spring-fed Comal River in New Braunfels the ideal place to spend a summer afternoon.
Enjoy a three-mile float in your tube and enjoy the clear waters and scenic landscape.
This is a great location and an easy float for families.
Guadalupe River
The Guadalupe River runs 230 miles from Central Texas to the Gulf of Mexico and is a popular destination to float on a tube.
Destinations along the Guadalupe River are New Braunfels, San Marcos, and San Antonio.
Frio River
The Frio River runs through the Texas Hill Country and is typically less crowded than other rivers in Texas. Enjoy a three-hour float on the Frio.
Surrounded by tall cypress trees, and limestone bluffs is the perfect setting for the spring-fed river.
You can access this river easily from Garner State Park.
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Llano River
The section of the South Llano River that runs through the South Llano River State Park near Junction, Texas, is a family-friendly tubing destination.
If you are looking for a lazy river float, this is a great place to go.
Medina River
Head to the Medina River Company located on Main Street in Bandera.
They offer tube rentals and shuttle services to float along the river.
If you want to make a weekend adventure on the river, then book a stay at the Twin Elm Ranch. They provided river excusing to their campers.
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Pedernales River
Located in Johnson City, in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, is a gorgeous park where visitors can enjoy a day hike, camp, fish, and float the river on a hot summer day.
Pedernales Falls State Park is a perfect place to float and enjoy a lazy day on the water.
Plus you will be able to see one of the best waterfalls in Texas.
Puluxy River
Head to Dinosaur Valley State Park and enjoy a day of floating the Puluxy River.
Floating this river all depends on the water levels. You don’t want it flooded, but also not too shallow or you will have to walk part of the river bed that is low.
If you’re lucky you’ll be able to spot dinosaur tracks in the river bed. Just remember to bring your tube!
Located just outside of Glen Rose, a float on the Puluxy River makes for a fun weekend getaways in Texas.
San Marcos River
Here you’ll find some of the cleanest water in the state.
It’s a less crowded river than the nearby Comal and Guadalupe, making this a great relaxing float and perfect for families.
Most floats on the San Marcos River, around around one mile, but can be extended if you wish.
Popular towns near here include Gruene, San Antonio and Wimberley.
Trinity River
Head to downtown Fort Worth during the summer months to enjoy a few hours on the water with the gorgeous views of downtown.
Beginning in June, guests can enjoy the Rockin’ the River concert series at Panther Island Pavilion.
The concert series lasts about 4 hours, and guests can enjoy the live music from the river, or while relaxing on the sandy beach.
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Tips for tubing in Texas
Follow the rules of the river
Choose the best tube – I prefer a tub with a bottom, cup holders and handles.
Water shoes are a must – you never know what is on the bottom of the river!
Sun protection – hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are a must-have!
No glass or styrofoam is allowed on Texas rivers.
Stay hydrated – pack a cooler with plenty of water
Bring snacks – Pack them in the cooler and rent a special tube to hold the cooler.
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