Tubing in San Marcos, TX
When the temperatures start to rise in Texas, it’s time to hit the San Marcos River for a float trip. And it surely doesn’t get much better than spending a sunny day floating down the crystal-clear spring-fed river that stays 72 degrees all year long. So, slather on some eco-friendly sunscreen, get comfy in your tube, securely tie down your belongings, and let the gentle current take you on a relaxing summertime SMTXperience. Adult beverages are okay to enjoy on your float, just as long as they aren’t in glass containers or Styrofoam coolers, and please take care of your belongings and trash responsibly. Remember, take what you bring!
Tubing Information
Where do you go to float the San Marcos River?
Lions Club Tube Rental, Don's Fish Camp, and Texas State Tubes are the tubing outfitters for the San Marcos River. Lions Club Tube Rental floats through the middle of town and Don's Fish Camp and Texas State Tubes float the stretch of the river outside of town through Martindale.
How long is the San Marcos tubing?
Depending on the water levels in the San Marcos River, Lions Club Tube Rental float lasts about 45 minutes to an hour. Texas State Tubes and Don's Fish Camp are more like a three hour float.
How much is it to float the river in San Marcos?
Tubing pricing depends on the outfitter you choose.
- Lions Club Tube Rental is $24 per tube (with unlimited shuttle), or if you bring your own tube the shuttle is $14 per person.
- Don's Fish Camp float pass is $30 per person or $19 if you bring your own tube. This includes the shuttle and parking.
- Texas State Tubes is $30 for tube rentals, $20 if you bring your own tube, $20 for military/students/teachers/first responders, $10 for children ages 7-12 (life jackets required), and free for ages 6 and under (life jackets required). This includes the shuttle.
What should I bring with me to go tubing?
- Sandals or water shoes that securely strap to your feet.
- A bag or container for your trash and belongings.
- Sunscreen - preferably eco-friendly for the critters that call the river home.
- Water! You'll need to stay hydrated while out in the Texas heat. Bring a reusable container.
- Rope if you'd like to tie multiple tubes together.
- A waterproof container or bag for your valuables. Renting a tube? You'll want to bring an ID, credit card, or cash.
You can find more river and park tips and rules HERE!
San Marcos River Information
What are the hours for the San Marcos River?
San Marcos riverfront parks are open from 6am-11pm unless posted otherwise.
Can we swim in the San Marcos River?
Yes, you can! Please stick to public access points. San Marcos riverfront parks include City Park, Plaza Park, Veramendi Plaza, Bicentennial Park, Children's Park, Rio Vista Park, Crook Park, Ramon Lucio Park, and Stokes Park.
What kind of fish are in the San Marcos River?
Catfish, Rio Grande Perch, San Marcos Gambusia, Sunfish, Carp, Gar, and more!
What's not allowed in the San Marcos River?
That's an excellent question and we commend you on wanting to be prepared and respectful of the San Marcos River!
- Glass
- Styrofoam
- Charcoal or wood grills
- E-cigarettes or other inhaled vapor devices
- Personal tables
- Alcohol in parkland (it's okay to enjoy an adult beverage while actively recreating in the river but not on parkland, dams, spillways, or bridges)
- Pop-up tents or other shelters unless at a City picnic table
- No single-use drink containers
You can find more information about San Marcos River and park rules HERE.
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