Comal River New Braunfels
Float the crystal-clear, 72°F Comal River in New Braunfels, TX, featuring a unique tube chute and scenic Texas Hill Country views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more chill vibes
Comal River New Braunfels
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more chill vibes
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Float the crystal-clear, 72°F Comal River in New Braunfels, TX, featuring a unique tube chute and scenic Texas Hill Country views.
"The Comal River in New Braunfels is a must-do for a refreshing Texas summer float!"
Bring Your Own Tubes
Save money and ensure you have a comfortable float by bringing your own tubes. :tube:
Secure Your Belongings
Losing a shoe on the chute is common! Use waterproof bags for valuables. :moneybag:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Tube Chute
Hinman Park
Experience the unique thrill of the Comal River's tube chute, a man-made channel offering an exciting ride.
Prince Solms Park
Comal River
A popular access point offering beautiful views and a great spot to start your float down the Comal River.
Relaxing River Float
Comal River
Enjoy a leisurely float down the Comal River, taking in the scenic Texas Hill Country views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Timing is Key
River Conditions & Safety
Be aware of your surroundings, especially regarding potentially intoxicated individuals. Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Your Own Tubes
Save money and ensure you have a comfortable float by bringing your own tubes. :tube:
Secure Your Belongings
Losing a shoe on the chute is common! Use waterproof bags for valuables. :moneybag:
Check River Status
Heavy rains can close the river. Always check conditions before heading out.
Parking Tips
Parking is free after 7 PM. Park benches may have a fee on weekends/holidays. :parking:
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Your Own Tubes
Save money and ensure you have a comfortable float by bringing your own tubes. :tube:
Secure Your Belongings
Losing a shoe on the chute is common! Use waterproof bags for valuables. :moneybag:
Check River Status
Heavy rains can close the river. Always check conditions before heading out.
Parking Tips
Parking is free after 7 PM. Park benches may have a fee on weekends/holidays. :parking:
Kid-Friendly Access
Look for spots like Prince Solms Park for easier entry and shorter float options for kids. :child:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Comal River's refreshing water and the unique tube chute, offering a fun and scenic tubing experience. However, some find the river excessively crowded on peak days, with concerns about intoxicated individuals and occasional water quality issues. Despite these drawbacks, many still consider it a quintessential Texas summer activity.
"We stopped by on a June summer day to check out the river.
The recent rains had enough water for the flow to be moving a gentle rate making it very nice for the tubers.
Parking was enough enough. There were some people along the banks and floating the river but not a crazy amount. All was nice, sane and calm."
Traveling G's
"I love floating rivers. The float is long, which I like. If I am getting into a river, i want it to actually take a long time to enjoy. I don't want it to be over fast. I love the homes on the river, they're so beautiful. I also love that there are tube chutes during the float. That was unique to this float. I took off a stars for the following reasons: There are TOOOOOO many people on this river. There are some spaces without people but really you are forced to listen to other peoples music for far too long because it is hard to slow down or speed up in most areas. There are people who are dangerously drunk. I have only floated on Wednesdays and apparently that is the day everyone mows their lawn, because the river is FULL of grass and weeds. Also, I have floated this twice, first time no issues with the water. Second time, I got an eye infection from the water.
Overall: I might do it again, but honestly would rather find a different float if possible."
Ashly Dubose
"We always have a good time floating in the river! It's fun to bring your own tubes and spend the day floating on the cold river water in the hot sun"
Silver Johnson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Comal River is easily accessible in New Braunfels, Texas. Popular access points include Prince Solms Park and Hinman Park, which is home to the famous tube chute. Many visitors drive and park near these access points.
Yes, parking is available at various access points like Prince Solms Park. Keep in mind that parking can be chargeable on weekends and holidays, but it's often free after 7:00 PM.
While driving is the most common way to reach the Comal River, ride-sharing services can drop you off at designated access points. Some outfitters may also offer shuttle services.
The tube chute is located at Hinman Park (499 E Mill St, New Braunfels, TX 78130). It's a well-known spot and easily navigable once you're in the New Braunfels area.
Some tubing outfitters in New Braunfels offer shuttle services to and from the river. It's advisable to check with local rental companies for their specific offerings.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Accessing the Comal River itself is generally free, especially at public parks like Prince Solms Park. However, if you rent tubes or use outfitter services, there will be associated costs.
Public parks like Prince Solms Park typically have daylight hours. It's best to check the specific hours for the park you plan to visit. Some areas might have different access times.
The river itself is a natural resource and generally free to access. However, parking fees may apply at certain parks on busy days.
Absolutely! Bringing your own tubes is a popular and cost-effective way to enjoy the Comal River.
River access can be temporarily closed due to high water levels or flash flood warnings. Always check local advisories before your visit.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Many people enjoy floating the Comal River by bringing their own tubes or renting them from local outfitters. The float can be quite long, offering ample time to relax and enjoy the scenery.
The unique tube chute at Hinman Park is a major highlight. Prince Solms Park is another popular spot for access and enjoying the river.
Yes, the Comal River can be family-friendly, especially if you choose shorter float sections or access points with calmer waters. The tube chute can be exciting for older kids.
Comfortable swimwear is essential. Water shoes or sandals that stay on your feet are highly recommended, as losing shoes on the chute is common. +1
Yes, many access points, like Prince Solms Park, offer restrooms and other amenities for visitors.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
New Braunfels has a vibrant food scene with many restaurants and eateries located near the Comal River, especially in the downtown area and Gruene.
Yes, visitors often bring their own coolers with food and beverages for a full day of tubing. Remember to be responsible and clean up after yourself.
While direct riverside dining might be limited, areas like Downtown Social and Pour Haus offer proximity to the river and a party atmosphere.
New Braunfels has a strong German heritage, so expect German cuisine. Tex-Mex and classic American fare are also widely available.
Yes, you can find convenience stores and small shops near popular Comal River access points where you can purchase snacks and drinks.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the scenic beauty of the Texas Hill Country, the unique tube chute, and the lively atmosphere of people enjoying the river.
It's recommended to use waterproof cases or dry bags for your electronics, as there's always a risk of them getting wet or lost.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting. Midday can be great for capturing the vibrant energy of the river. +1
The tube chute is a very photogenic spot. Also, the scenic riverbanks and the historic Gruene district nearby offer great photo backdrops.
Drone usage is subject to local regulations. It's advisable to check with the city of New Braunfels or park authorities regarding drone operation policies.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's advisable to bring your own tubes for comfort and to pack plenty of snacks and drinks in a secure, waterproof cooler. 💰 Budget Travelers
💑 Couples
+1 Consider a night kayaking tour for a unique and serene experience under the stars. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Comal River: Tubing Essentials
Many visitors opt to bring their own tubes, but numerous outfitters in New Braunfels offer rentals and shuttle services, making it convenient for all. When planning your float, consider the best time to visit to avoid the most intense crowds. Weekdays, particularly Wednesdays and Fridays, are often less crowded than weekends.
While the river is generally family-friendly, be aware of your surroundings, especially on busy days when some individuals may be excessively intoxicated. Essential items for your Comal River adventure include a waterproof bag for your phone and keys, sunscreen, and water shoes or secure sandals, as losing footwear on the tube chute is a common occurrence.
Beyond the Float: Exploring New Braunfels
+1For thrill-seekers, Schlitterbahn Waterpark is a world-renowned destination located right on the Comal River, offering a different kind of water-based fun with its numerous slides and attractions.
+1 Beyond the river and waterpark, New Braunfels provides opportunities for hiking and exploring in nearby natural areas, and its vibrant downtown area offers a variety of shops, breweries, and live music venues. +1Accommodation options range from cabin rentals on the Comal River for an immersive experience to hotels and vacation homes throughout the city.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit