What makes the Guadalupe such a favorite is its steady, gentle current—easy enough for beginners, but still fun and engaging for anyone looking to relax and float. Plus, the water is spring-fed, which means it stays refreshingly cool even when the Texas sun is doing its worst.
1. Tubing Spot: Guadalupe River State Park
If you want tubing with a side of natural beauty and park amenities, this is your spot. The water here is incredibly clear—you can see fish swimming beneath you—and the scenery feels more untouched than some of the busier commercial sections.
The park offers picnic areas, restrooms, and designated river entry points, so it’s well set up for a full day. The currents are moderate, making it suitable for families and anyone who wants a relaxed float without too much excitement.
Good to know: You’ll need to pay the park entrance fee. $7 for adults, while children are free of charge. An annual pass is also available for $70, where you and your guests can enjoy the 80 state parks of Texas without paying entrance fees.
2. What You’ll Need
Tube Options
You’ve got two choices: bring your own tube or rent one locally. Both work fine, but there are trade-offs.
Bringing your own tube saves money if you’re planning multiple trips and gives you control over quality. Look for tubes designed for river use—they’re more durable than cheap pool floats.
You want something at least 48 inches in diameter for adults. Heavy-duty vinyl or rubber tubes with repair kits are smart investments. The downside is that you’ll have to inflate, transport, and store them yourself when you’re done.
Renting locally is easier and more convenient, especially if you’re visiting from out of town. Most outfitters offer standard tubes ($15-25) and premium options with bottoms for more comfortable sitting ($20-30).
Safety Gear
Life jackets are non-negotiable if you’re not a strong swimmer, if you’re bringing kids, or if water levels are higher than usual. Most rental outfitters include them free or for a small fee.
Texas law requires children under 13 to wear a life jacket while on the river. Even if you’re a confident swimmer, having a life jacket available is smart—river conditions can change.
Water shoes are also essential. The river bottom is rocky, and you will need to walk at various points—getting in, getting out, or if you need to navigate around obstacles. Old sneakers work, but water-specific shoes with good grip are better.
This honestly goes without saying, but sunscreen needs to be waterproof and reapplied regularly. You’re going to be in direct sunlight for hours, much of it reflecting off the water, which intensifies UV exposure.
Waterproof bags for valuables like phones, keys, and wallets are critical. You can buy small dry bags for $10-20 that will save you from the nightmare of a waterlogged phone.
3. Safety Tips & River Etiquette
Check Conditions Before You Go
Water levels and current speeds can change dramatically based on recent rainfall and dam releases. Most outfitters post current conditions on their websites or social media.
If the water is too high, tubing can become dangerous. Stronger currents, submerged obstacles, and faster speeds are difficult to control. If it’s too low, you’ll spend more time dragging your tube over rocks than actually floating.
Call ahead if you’re unsure. Outfitters will tell you honestly whether conditions are good for tubing that day.
River Rules and Etiquette
No littering. Seriously. Pack out everything you bring in. The Guadalupe River is beautiful because people take care of it. Leaving trash, cans, or bottles behind is unacceptable.
Respect wildlife. You’ll see fish, turtles, birds, and occasionally other animals. Like one famous TikToker says, “love her, leave her alone.”
Watch them, enjoy them, but leave them alone. Don’t try to catch them or get too close.
Avoid overcrowding. Give other tubers space. If someone is moving more slowly than you, navigate around them politely. If you’re the slower group, let faster tubers pass. The river is more enjoyable when everyone is courteous.
Keep glass off the river. Many outfitters and river regulations prohibit glass containers, and for good reason—broken glass on a rocky river bottom is dangerous for everyone. Stick to cans or plastic.
Don’t Float Alone
Tubing is safer and more fun with friends. If someone gets in trouble, tips over, or gets separated from their tube, having other people around is crucial.
Deeper stretches of the river require more caution, and even experienced swimmers can struggle if they’re exhausted or caught off guard.
Group floating also means someone can help if you lose a shoe, drop your sunglasses, or need assistance navigating around obstacles. Solo tubing isn’t worth the risk.
4. Local Rentals and Services
Several reputable companies offer tube rentals, equipment, and shuttle services along the Guadalupe River. Here’s what to look for:
One of the most popular outfitters near New Braunfels is Rockin’ R River Rides. They offer single tubes, double tubes, cooler floats, and all the gear you need.
Their shuttle service takes you upriver to your starting point and picks you up at the end. They have multiple float options ranging from 2-6 hours, depending on which section you choose.
Another option is the River Sports Tubes. They offer rentals and shuttles with options for shorter family-friendly floats or longer adventures. They also rent kayaks and paddleboards if you want to mix activities.
Enjoying the Texas River Experience
Here’s the secret to great tubing: you don’t have to do anything. That’s the whole point. The river carries you, the sun warms you, the water cools you, and for a few hours, your biggest decision is whether to open another drink or take a nap on your tube.
Watch the trees drift by. Talk with your friends or enjoy the silence. Let yourself relax into the slow pace.
See you on the waters of the Guadalupe River!
Featured image credit: Timothy Reid via Pexels