This All-Day Float Trip Will Make Your Austin Summer Complete

This spring-fed river is always crisp and cool. It's also home to the cleanest water in the Austin area. Shimmering blue streams will greet you, and you'll never want to leave this gorgeous oasis.

A quick 45 minute drive south of Austin will lead you to pure summertime bliss. Stay for an afternoon or an entire weekend. There's no shortage of exciting things to discover in San Marcos.

This option is perfect for families with little ones. This one-hour float begins at San Marcos City Park and ends at the Rio Vista Dam. You'll glide through the heart of San Marcos while still experiencing its gorgeous natural landscape. Tube rentals cost $12 for the entire day and include unlimited shuttle rides. Lion's Club Tube Rentals are open Friday - Wednesday from 10 am to 7 pm and Thursdays from 11:30 am to 8:30 pm. They can be found at City Park, San Marcos, TX 78666. For more information, visit their website here.

If you begin your journey on this stretch of the river, you'll be met with a wildly fun time. Known as the "party float," this portion of the San Marcos River is full of thumping music and cold beer. It flows slowly and takes about three hours to complete. Tube rentals cost $18 and include one free shuttle ride. They're open Sunday - Friday from 11 am to 4:30 pm and Saturday from 10 am to 4:30 pm. Texas State Tubes is located at 2024 North Old Bastrop Rd. San Marcos, TX 78666. For more information, visit their website or Facebook page.

You can also rent a kayak and paddle along the serene waters. This activity is best enjoyed in the early morning before the river tubers flock in.