New Braunfels has earned its reputation as one of Texas’ premier water-adventure destinations, and once you experience the crystal-clear spring-fed rivers and world-class attractions, you’ll understand why.
This Hill Country town sits at the perfect intersection of natural beauty and developed recreation, offering plenty of things to do—from floating down pristine rivers in the morning to experiencing award-winning waterpark thrills in the afternoon.
Let’s dive in.
Guadalupe River Tubing
The Guadalupe River is the star of New Braunfels’ water scene. It’s a spring-fed river that flows clear and cold year-round, winding through cypress-lined banks and limestone cliffs that define Hill Country beauty.
Tubing “The Guad” is considered a Texas tradition that draws hundreds of thousands of people every summer.
Float routes vary from short 2-hour trips to all-day 6-hour adventures, giving you flexibility based on how much time you want to spend on the water.
The river’s mild rapids and gentle current make it accessible to most people while still providing enough movement to keep things interesting.
Perhaps most distinctively, the Guadalupe has a social, party-like atmosphere during peak season. Groups tie their tubes together, coolers float alongside carrying drinks and snacks, waterproof speakers play music, and a festival-like energy fills the river on summer weekends.
Parking becomes extremely challenging during summer weekends. Outfitters’ parking lots fill completely, and street parking near public access points is scarce. Plan to arrive early (by 9 AM) or visit weekdays when parking stress decreases dramatically.
If you’re planning to float this summer, our guide to Guadalupe River tubing breaks down everything you need to know for the perfect day on the water. From the best entry points to what to bring, it’s all covered.
Comal River Activities
If the Guadalupe River is New Braunfels’ wild child, the Comal River is its well-behaved sibling—shorter, calmer, and decidedly more family-friendly.
The Comal holds the distinction of being one of the shortest rivers in the world at just 2.5 miles, but those 2.5 miles pack in crystal-clear spring-fed water, easy access points, and a gentle float perfect for beginners and families.
The river flows through Landa Park and downtown New Braunfels, providing easy access without driving to remote areas. You can literally walk from downtown hotels and restaurants to the river in minutes.
It caters specifically to families with young children, first-time tubers, elderly visitors, and anyone wanting a relaxed, low-key float experience. While you’ll still encounter crowds during summer, the energy remains more subdued and appropriate for all ages.
Riverfront parks along the Comal provide picnic areas, shade from massive oak trees, playgrounds, and restroom facilities. These parks make it easy to combine tubing with a full day of outdoor activities.
For more information, check out our guide to Comal River activities. It highlights the best ways to enjoy tubing, paddle boarding, and family-friendly adventures along the crystal-clear Comal.
Tubing Outfitters Overview & Comparison
Tubing outfitters are businesses that make river tubing accessible and convenient by providing equipment rentals, transportation, and logistical support. Understanding how they work and what differentiates them helps you choose the right outfitter for your needs.
The typical process goes like this: You drive to the outfitter’s location and park your car. They load you onto a bus or van and transport you upriver to your starting point. You tube back downstream to the outfitter’s location where your car is parked.
It’s simple, efficient, and eliminates the complicated logistics of arranging multiple vehicles.
Most outfitters also offer amenities like restrooms, changing facilities, and on-site stores selling necessities (sunscreen, water shoes, waterproof pouches).
Popular outfitters along the Guadalupe and Comal rivers include Rockin’ R River Rides, Texas Tubes, River Sports Tubes, Shanty Tubes, and on-site rentals at Prince Solms Park.
Each provider differs in pricing, float routes, amenities, and overall vibe. Checking their websites for current rates, river conditions, and reservation availability can help you pick the best fit for your group.
For a more comprehensive comparison, check out our guide on the popular tubing outfitters in New Braunfels.
River Safety & Regulations
New Braunfels’ rivers attract hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, making safety rules and environmental protections critical for preserving the experience and protecting public safety.
These regulations help prevent accidents, minimize pollution, and keep the rivers enjoyable for locals and tourists alike.
Violating rules can result in fines or removal from the river, but more importantly, following them helps maintain the natural beauty and recreational value of these waterways.
Before you hit the water, knowing the rules is crucial. Our guide to river safety covers life jackets, local regulations, and best practices to ensure a fun and worry-free float.
Schlitterbahn Waterpark
Schlitterbahn Waterpark is an institution in New Braunfels. Since opening in 1979, this family-owned park has won “Best Waterpark in the World” awards from Amusement Today repeatedly, and once you experience it, you’ll understand why.
What sets Schlitterbahn apart is the combination of natural spring-fed attractions, innovative ride design, massive scale (70 acres with 45+ rides), and a commitment to quality that’s remained consistent for over 45 years.
The park pioneered concepts like uphill water coasters (Master Blasters) that other waterparks later copied.
What’s unique about this waterpark is how its sections connect via rivers. You can literally float from one area to another on inner tubes, making the journey between rides part of the experience.
When visiting Schlitterbahn, planning makes a huge difference. Crowds are heavily drawn to the waterpark during the summer months, especially on the weekends. As such, we recommend arriving at opening time or visiting mid-week helps maximize ride time.
If thrills, waves, and lazy rivers are your thing, check out our tips for visiting Schlitterbahn Waterpark and making the most of every splash-filled attraction.
Best Time of Year to Visit New Braunfels
Peak Summer (June-August): Warmest weather, best water conditions, maximum crowds, highest prices. If you want the full tubing experience and don’t mind crowds, this is your window.
Shoulder Season (May & September): Excellent compromise—still warm enough for comfortable water time, significantly fewer crowds, better prices, easier parking, and accommodations.
Off-Season (October-April): Schlitterbahn closes (mid-September to mid-April). River tubing is uncomfortable except for die-hards. However, this is prime time for kayaking, fishing, and enjoying rivers without crowds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can children tube on the Guadalupe or Comal?
Yes, but age appropriateness varies. The Comal River is better for young children (5+) due to shorter length, calmer waters, and a family-friendly atmosphere.
The Guadalupe is better suited for older kids (10+) who can handle longer floats and more active conditions. Children under 13 must wear life jackets by law.
Can you drink alcohol while tubing?
Yes, alcohol is permitted on New Braunfels rivers, but containers must be cans or plastic—no glass. Public intoxication laws still apply, and being visibly drunk can result in citations.
Drink responsibly, stay hydrated with water, and never drive after drinking. Some sections have stricter alcohol regulations, so check current rules before your trip.
Is Schlitterbahn worth a whole day?
Absolutely! With 70 acres and 45+ attractions, you could spend two full days without repeating rides. Most visitors spend 6-8 hours, which allows time for major attractions, meals, and relaxation.
Arriving at the opening and staying until late afternoon maximizes value. Season pass holders often visit multiple times, focusing on different sections each visit.
Do I need reservations for tubing in both the Guadalupe and Comal Rivers?
Not typically for walk-up service, but reservations are recommended for summer weekends when outfitters sell out.
Calling ahead or booking online guarantees equipment availability and reduces wait times. For groups (10+ people), reservations are strongly advised. Weekday tubing rarely requires reservations.
Plan Your Perfect Aquatic Adventure at New Braunfels
New Braunfels’ water activities offer something for everyone, that’s for sure.
Whether you’re seeking adventure on the Guadalupe River, family-friendly fun on the Comal, or world-class thrills at Schlitterbahn, there’s a lot of fun in store for you.
If there’s one thing we want you to remember—apart from enjoying yourselves, of course—it’s this: please always respect the rivers that make New Braunfels special. Be mindful and diligently follow safety regulations.
So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your water adventure now!
New Braunfels looks forward to your visit!
Featured image credit: @inandaroundnbtx via Instagram