Waterparks are great, but they don’t hold a candle to the rugged beauty of Mother Nature. Tubing is an essential summertime activity here in Texas, and these seven rivers offer some of the best floats. Who else is counting down the days?

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1. Guadalupe River

The Guadalupe River is one of the biggest tubing hotspots in the state, and for good reason! Water this pristine can't be found just anywhere. You can choose from several different river outfitters, most of which offer air-conditioned shuttle rides to and from public access points. More information here.

2. Comal River

Bordering Schlitterbahn, the Comal is undoubtedly the river of choice for most Texans. It actually merges with the Guadalupe at some point, although you'd be none the wiser judging solely by how the water looks -- this river is a much deeper blue; almost black in some areas. The water temperature is a steady 70-72 degrees year-round, and there's an epic tube chute that adds a thrill to the otherwise mellow float. More information here.

3. San Marcos River

Some of the cleanest water in all of Texas can be found right here in the San Marcos River. Cutting through a busy college town, the environment is surprisingly rugged; massive trees and other lush greenery line the banks on either side. Most commercial floats are about a mile, but you can always forge your own longer path! It's much less crowded than the Comal and Guadalupe, making for a much more low-key adventure. More information here.

4. Frio River

Flowing on for almost 50 miles, the Frio River is located much further West than all the aforementioned bodies of water. This means the landscape is entirely different -- think jutting limestone canyons that tower up into the clouds. There are many access points, but by far the most commonly used is Garner State Park in Concan. More information here.

5. Medina River

Often overlooked in favor of the more well-known rivers, the Medina is a true hidden gem passing straight through the "Cowboy Capital of Texas," or Bandera. It's slow-flowing as minimally-trafficked as it gets, so you'll surely feel relaxed and rejuvenated after the float. More information here.

6. Brazos River

The Brazos River is slow-moving and incredibly scenic. Try to make the trip before late summer to ensure a steady current. Many access points exist, but entering near Possum Kingdom Lake will provide the most breathtaking views.

7. Trinity River

A favorite summer hangout spot among North Texans, the Trinity River is mild enough that tubers can simply float around the general area in which they entered without getting swept away. The Trinity is also home to the Rockin' the River Concert Series, where 30 bands perform on Texas' only waterfront stage over the course of six weeks. More information here.

 

Have you tubed any of these rivers? Which one is your favorite? Let us know your thoughts, and check out our previous article to learn more about the Comal tube chute: Everyone In Texas Should Do This Awesome Activity At Least Once.

Are there any restaurants, businesses, or other attractions in Texas you think the world should know about? Head over to our nomination page and give them a shoutout — you just might see your submission featured in an upcoming article!

7 Lazy River Summer Tubing Trips In Texas To Start Planning Now

Newsletters Mentioned:

Address: Guadalupe River, Texas, USA
Address: Comal River, New Braunfels, TX 78130, USA
Address: San Marcos River, Texas, USA
Address: Frio River, Texas 78071, USA
Address: Medina River, Medina, TX 78055, USA
Address: Brazos River, Texas, USA
Address: Trinity River, Texas 77514, USA

-  | April 30, 2020