One of the most popular water activities in Texas during summertime is tubing on the Comal River and Guadalupe River near New Braunfels. There are plenty of rentals for tubes, rafts, kayaks and standup paddleboards by both rivers. The Comal River is a smaller river that is fed by spring waters. It flows from the Edwards Aquifer, then passes Landa Park, flows through downtown New Braunfels, and goes by Schlitterbahn Waterpark. It then merges with the larger Guadalupe River.
On the weekends, the Guadalupe turns into a great party river. It gets really crowded, but it is fun. While floating and relaxing on a tube you can enjoy a cold drink and have a nice conversation with people floating nearby.
The Guadalupe River has rapids, boulders, and chutes so floating is both fun and adventurous as well. Of course, everything depends on what part of the river you choose. Some of the best parts are the Horseshoe, the Chute, and around GrueneIf. Don't forget sunscreen, river shoes, a hat, and sunglasses for this trip. And be careful because there aren't any lifeguards.
Practical info
When is the peak season for river tubing in Texas?
From June to August, river tubing is at its peak season in Texas due to the hot and sunny weather, making it the perfect time to go. The Comal river and Guadalupe river are the popular choices for tubing in this season. However, it is important to consider that weather conditions and water levels tend to fluctuate, which may affect the suitability of the activity, and hence it would be wise to get an update from local rental companies before planning a trip. Show more
What is the location of the Comal and Guadalupe rivers in Texas?
The Comal and Guadalupe rivers are close to New Braunfels, situated in central Texas. The Comal river flows through the downtown of New Braunfels, and the Guadalupe river meets the Comal river after passing through New Braunfels. These rivers are conveniently located near San Antonio and Austin and can be accessed effortlessly by both tourists and locals alike. Show more
What kind of rentals are on offer for river tubing around New Braunfels?
There is an extensive range of rentals available near New Braunfels for river tubing, including rafts, tubes, kayaks, and standup paddleboards. Certain rental companies offer shuttle services to make travelling to and from the river easier. It is better to reserve equipment beforehand, regardless of the season. In peak season, since several people go tubing, it is necessary to book in advance. The rental fees vary depending on the type of equipment rented and the duration of rental. Show more
Is river tubing on the Guadalupe river exciting due to the rapids and obstacles?
Tubing on the Guadalupe river can be incredibly exhilarating due to the rapids, big boulders and chutes that you will encounter along the way. However, the intensity of the obstacles and rapids is different across various sections of the river. Some sections would be more suited for children and families, whereas other parts may require more experience with tubing. Thus, it is crucial to research the section that you plan to tube on and take necessary precautions to avoid any untoward incidents. Show more
Which parts of the Guadalupe River are recommended for river tubing?
The Horseshoe, the Chute and around Gruene are some highly recommended parts of the Guadalupe River for river tubing. The Horseshoe is famous for its horseshoe-shaped bend and crystal clear water, while the Chute is well known for its narrow channels and exciting drops. Gruene, a historic district, is another spot that offers a beautiful and calming experience for all. Alongside these, some other recommended parts of the river include the Upper Guadalupe and the Lower Guadalupe that are definitely worth exploring. Show more
