Summers in the Lone Star State are notoriously hot – and that means frequent trips to go river tubing in Texas. There’s no better way to beat the heat than jumping in a tube and floating the day away on a float trip in Texas. Here are nine of the absolute best lazy rivers in Texas for tubing.
1. Guadalupe
Easily the most popular tubing river in the state, the Guadalupe starts filling with beer-wielding tourists as soon as the temperature gets above 70. The 230-mile long tributary could take you all the way into the Gulf, but the most frequented spots are in the Hill Country. With very few rapids and cypress trees all around to provide shade, it's a family-friendly float sure to please everyone. River Sports Tubes is one of the best tube rental spots (brief and all-day floats available).
2. Comal
The Comal is a short, 2.5-mile stretch of the Guadalupe that flows through New Braunfels. Its sapphire waters, thrilling tube chute, and intersection with Schlitterbahn make it a truly unique experience that belongs in everyone's summer plans. Use Landa Falls to get the most bang for your buck, as you'll ride until the very last opportunity to exit.
3. San Marcos
A popular summer hangout spot for Texas State University students, the San Marcos River is another offshoot of the Guadalupe with crystal-clear water and slides at the end as well as food trucks and picnic tables. Most people float with the Lions Club because they have a shuttle to take you right back to your car!
4. Frio
The Frio River boasts breathtaking views of the sprawling canyons and plateaus out west. Garner State Park is the primary access point, and camping there provides not only water recreation but also hiking and biking trails as well. You might want to wear a more modest bathing suit - Spanish for "cold," the Frio will freeze your poor back and toes if you aren't careful!
5. South Llano
We typically associate this river with fly-fishing, but it's also great for tubing (and kayaking/canoeing!) Enter near the South Llano River State Park or Boone's Crossing for a relaxing float the entire family is guaranteed to enjoy.
6. Brazos
If you aren't a fan of sitting bumper-to-bumper with other tubers, the Brazos is the river for you. Located near Caddo, it's quite literally in the middle of nowhere and promises to not be overrun with tourists. The current varies depending on the weather, but visiting before summer's end is your best bet to ensure the water level is high enough for floating. The easiest point of entry is Possum Kingdom State Park, where you can also camp overnight!
7. Trinity
Every Saturday through August 11, you can enjoy live music while you float thanks to the Rockin' the River Festival. Visit the official website for a schedule of all the bands and more information about tube rentals.
8. Medina
Although much more popular during fall because of the breathtaking foliage draped over the water, the Medina River is beautiful all throughout the year. It's 120 miles long, spring-fed, and full of clear water that flows gently with the exception of a few mild rapids. Despite being located in such a small town, the Medina River Company offers tube rentals and a shuttle service to make your experience as easy and painless as possible.
9. Colorado
By far the longest river in the state, the Colorado has tons of access points in a variety of different towns. It's a relaxing float no matter where you enter, so just base your decision on whatever other activities you plan on doing - like spending the night in this By far the longest river in the state, the Colorado has tons of access points in a variety of different towns. It's a relaxing float no matter where you enter, so just base your decision on whatever other activities you plan on doing - like spending the night in this epic riverfront treehouse, for example!
When you go, be sure to bring plenty of sun protection! Have you ever floated any of these lazy rivers in Texas? What do you think are some of the float trips in Texas? Tell us via our nomination page for a chance to see your suggestion featured in an upcoming article!
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