Tubing the rivers in New Braunfels—whether it’s the iconic Guadalupe or the crystal-clear Comal—is one of the best ways to spend a Texas summer day. The cool, spring-fed water, scenic cypress-lined banks, and gentle currents make these spots perfect for everyone, from first-timers to seasoned river regulars.
And with water activities like tubing, paddleboarding, kayaking, and swimming, there’s something for every kind of adventurer.
But here’s the thing: even though floating the river feels relaxed and easygoing, it’s still important to follow basic safety precautions to keep the fun stress-free.
This guide walks you through everything you need to know to stay safe, avoid common mistakes, and make sure your day on the Guadalupe or Comal is memorable for all the right reasons.
Before You Go: Check the Weather & River Conditions
River conditions can change dramatically based on recent rainfall and water releases from Canyon Dam upstream. What was a calm, lazy float last weekend might be a fast-moving current this weekend if there’s been heavy rain or increased dam releases.
Why water flow levels matter: Higher water means faster currents, which can make tubing more challenging and potentially dangerous, especially for inexperienced swimmers or families with kids.
On the flip side, extremely low water means you’ll spend more time dragging your tube over rocks than actually floating, which isn’t fun either.
Where to check conditions: Most tube rental outfitters post current river conditions on their websites and social media pages. They’ll tell you honestly if conditions are good for tubing that day.
The Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority (GBRA) also provides real-time flow data online. Call ahead if you’re uncertain. Outfitters deal with the river daily. They know when it’s safe and when it’s not worth the risk.
Essential Safety Tips
Always Wear a Life Jacket
Yes, even if you’re a strong swimmer. The Guadalupe has unpredictable currents, deeper sections, and areas where the water moves faster than you’d expect.
If you tip out of your tube unexpectedly or get tired, a life jacket can be the difference between a minor inconvenience and a serious problem.
Texas law requires children under 13 to wear life jackets while on the river. Most rental outfitters provide them free or for a small fee.
Hydrate and Protect Yourself From the Sun
Dehydration and heat exhaustion are two of the most common issues on the Guadalupe, and they’re completely avoidable.
Drink water regularly, not just when you’re thirsty. By the time you feel thirsty, you’re already behind on hydration. Aim to drink at least 8-16 ounces per hour, more if it’s particularly hot. Yes, you’ll need to pee, but that’s better than passing out from heat stroke.
Reapply sunscreen every 1-2 hours. Water washes it off faster than you think. Pay special attention to shoulders, tops of feet, back of neck, and any area that’s constantly exposed. Trust me, a severe sunburn will ruin the rest of your vacation.
Use the Buddy System
Never tube alone. Always go with at least one other person, preferably more. If something goes wrong—you lose your tube, get injured, or need help—having people around is crucial.
Stay together as a group. Tie your tubes together with rope so you don’t drift apart. It’s easy to lose track of people on a busy river, especially if currents push you at different speeds or someone stops to rest while others keep floating.
Plan meet-up points in case of separation. Know where your exit point is and what time the shuttle picks up. If someone does get separated, they should float to the designated exit and wait there rather than trying to fight the current to catch up.
Keep Alcohol in Check
Yes, many visitors drink while tubing. It’s part of the culture on the Guadalupe. But it also creates risks, which is why it’s better to keep your alcohol intake in check. I know, what a bummer, but hear me out first.
Disposable containers (cans, plastic bottles) are generally allowed, but glass is prohibited in most sections of the river. Some areas have specific alcohol restrictions; therefore, please check with your outfitter.
Alcohol also dehydrates you, which is dangerous when you’re already in the sun for hours. If you’re drinking, alternate with water, eat food, and know your limits.
Most importantly, don’t overdo it. Getting drunk on the river isn’t just unsafe for you—it’s unsafe for everyone around you. Plus, you’re there to float and relax, not to get smashed out of your wits.
Know Where You’re Getting In and Out
This sounds obvious, but people mess it up constantly.
Know your entry point: Most outfitters shuttle you upriver to a designated launch point. Pay attention to the landmarks and any instructions they give you about navigating that section.
Know your exit point: This is critical. Missing your exit means you’ll float past it and potentially end up miles downstream with no way to get back. Your outfitter will tell you what to look for—write it down or take a photo of the information.
Check shuttle pickup times: If you’re on a timed float, know when the last shuttle runs. Missing it could mean a long walk back or needing to call for a ride.
Common Tubing Mistakes to Avoid
Ignoring River Hazards
The Guadalupe and the Comal is generally safe, but it’s not hazard-free. Strainers—fallen trees or debris that water flows through but people can’t—are dangerous. If you get pushed into one by the current, you can get pinned against it. If you see a strainer ahead, paddle away from it early.
Rocks and shallow areas can appear suddenly, especially during lower water levels. Keep your feet up when you’re floating to avoid hitting submerged rocks.
The key is staying aware. Don’t zone out completely, keep scanning ahead for obstacles and be ready to react.
Overpacking or Bringing the Wrong Gear
More stuff doesn’t equal more fun. It equals more things to manage, lose, or have fly out of your tube when you hit a rapid.
Less is more. Bring only what you’ll actually use. That means water, snacks, sunscreen, and maybe a waterproof speaker if you want music. Don’t bring five bags of gear you’ll spend the whole float trying to keep track of.
Remember, pack smart and pack light.
Underestimating the Time
Tubing almost always takes longer than you expect. What looks like a quick two-hour float might take three or four hours, depending on water levels, how many stops you make, and how much the river is being used that day.
Plan your day accordingly. Don’t schedule something important immediately after your float. It’s highly recommended that you block a whole day for this activity. Relaxation isn’t something you should rush through, after all.
Quick Final Checklist
Before you head to the river, run through this list:
✅ Life jacket (especially for kids and weak swimmers)
✅ Sun protection (waterproof sunscreen, hat, sunglasses with strap, sun shirt)
✅ Hydration (at least one full water bottle per person)
✅ Exit plan (know where you’re getting out and when the shuttle runs)
✅ Group communication (rope to tie tubes, designated meeting points, everyone knows the plan)
✅ Secured belongings (dry bags, carabiners, waterproof cases)
✅ Appropriate footwear (water shoes that won’t fall off)
✅ Trash bag (pack out everything you bring in)
✅ Weather check (current conditions and forecast)
✅ Emergency contact (someone knows where you are and when you’ll be back)
Tubing the Comal and Guadalupe Rivers in New Braunfels is an incredible experience. The waters are pristine, and the sceneries are undeniably gorgeous. Plus, there’s nothing quite like floating downstream with friends on a hot summer day, right?
But it’s still an outdoor activity in a natural environment, which means you need to follow these basic precautions to the letter.
Featured image credit: Must Bee via Pexels