Sometimes we all could really use a fun outdoor activity that allows one to cool off, relax, recharge, and focus on some quality time with family and friends. Enter floating. Also called tubing, this leisure activity will have you and your companions plopped down in the river and floating along through peaceful, undisturbed nature, with intermittent swim breaks, rope swings, small rapids, wildlife sightings, and cold beverages.

San Marcos River, San Marcos

Another crystal clear, spring-fed, always flowing, easy float option. The river winds right through the beautiful Texas State University campus. Check out Lions Club Tube Rental or Texas State Tubes for rentals. Longtime college lunch spot Alvin Ord’s serves delicious unique sandwiches on their distinct sourdough buns, and nearby Blue Dahlia Bistro has fantastic European-influenced brunch, lunch, and dinner options (and a lovely verdant courtyard).

Guadalupe River, New Braunfels

For more of an urban escape, and more extended floating options as well, the Guadalupe River has many different floatable sections, each surrounded by pristine wilderness. Whitewater Sports or Rockin’ R River Rides can help you get in the flow. After a long day floating, grub on some chicken fried steak at The Gristmill before two-stepping at the famous Gruene Hall, Texas’s oldest dance hall, built in 1878.

Frio River, Concan

For a full weekend excursion, head west from San Antonio to Garner State Park for great camping as well as a nice long, scenic, remote float down the Frio River. Lined with high limestone bluffs, massive boulders, and enormous cypress trees, the Frio is perfect for a more immersive, tranquil nature adventure. Look to Andy’s On River Road or Camp Riverview for tube rentals and other details. After, hit up Hippie Chic’s River Shack for pizza, drinks, and great live music.

Comal River, New Braunfels

Spring-fed, refreshing cool water year-round. Plenty of shade. With a shorter, very pleasant three-mile float, it’s the perfect length for families or those new to floating. Try Texas Tubes or Rockin’ R River Rides. Nearby highly rated Muck & Fuss has fantastic burgers, tacos, giant onion rings, craft beer and cocktails to boot.  Just next door is the famous Schlitterbahn Waterpark. Bring the whole family and make a weekend out of it.

Several other scenic rivers for floating can be found across the state not far from the major metros. East of Austin in Bastrop, drift down the longest river in Texas, the Colorado River. To the west in Johnson City, you can find fishing and floating at Pedernales Falls State Park. And for another leisure tubing experience, the Blanco River offers a family-friendly slow float.

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