Comal Springs
The source of Texas' shortest river, Comal Springs offers cool, clear waters for swimming and tubing in scenic Landa Park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, perfect for floating
Comal Springs
Best Time
Fewer crowds, perfect for floating
Highlights
Must-see attractions
The source of Texas' shortest river, Comal Springs offers cool, clear waters for swimming and tubing in scenic Landa Park.
"Simply beautiful! A favorite landmark for its natural elegance and peaceful, cool waters."
🎯 Rent or Bring Your Own Tube
Rentals with shuttle services are available, or bring your own for a personalized float experience.
☀️ River-Safe Sunscreen
Protect the water! Use reef-safe sunscreen to minimize environmental impact.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Tube Chute
Comal River
A thrilling waterslide on the Comal River, perfect for a Texas summer adventure. Rent tubes nearby and shuttle services are available!
Comal Springs
Landa Park
The source of the Comal River, these impressive springs offer cool, clear water for wading and swimming year-round.
Landa Park
New Braunfels
A beautiful park surrounding the springs, offering walking paths, picnic areas, and family-friendly activities.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat: River Floating Season
Water Levels & Drought Concerns
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Rent or Bring Your Own Tube
Rentals with shuttle services are available, or bring your own for a personalized float experience.
☀️ River-Safe Sunscreen
Protect the water! Use reef-safe sunscreen to minimize environmental impact.
💧 Check Water Levels
Drought can affect flow. Check conditions before you go, especially for tubing.
♻️ Pack Out Your Trash
Keep the river clean by taking all your trash with you.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Rent or Bring Your Own Tube
Rentals with shuttle services are available, or bring your own for a personalized float experience.
☀️ River-Safe Sunscreen
Protect the water! Use reef-safe sunscreen to minimize environmental impact.
💧 Check Water Levels
Drought can affect flow. Check conditions before you go, especially for tubing.
♻️ Pack Out Your Trash
Keep the river clean by taking all your trash with you.
🚗 Parking Improvements
Landa Park has seen parking improvements, making access easier.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Comal Springs is celebrated as the birthplace of the Comal River and a beautiful Texas landmark, offering a refreshing escape with its consistently cool waters. Visitors love the natural beauty, the unique experience of seeing the springs emerge, and the family-friendly atmosphere of Landa Park. However, some have noted concerns about water levels during drought periods and the increasing crowds during peak season.
"Birth place of the Comal River ,named as World's Shortest River but I would suggest its one of the beautiful landmarks in Texas situated in Hill country.
Its good to spend time along with family in the weekends with nice river view.
Its a good spot to take photo shoots as well. #HappyVisiting"
Deepak
"A favorite landmark of all my worldly travels. The spring or head of the Comal River has of late been dry when I stopped for a visit. The drought and development both impact the aquifer.
Whether a trickle a stream or dry I still stop and take a peek. The parking has gotten much better as the city of New Braunfels made improvements to Landa Park.
Let's hope that we get back into the wet years with the Comal River and Spring healthy."
Traveling G's
"Not enough words to describe this place, simply beautiful!"
Laura Hogan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Comal Springs is located within Landa Park in New Braunfels, Texas. You can drive and park in the designated areas within the park.
Public transportation options directly to Landa Park might be limited. Driving is the most common way to access the springs. Consider ride-sharing services if you're not driving.
Several outfitters like Rockin' R, Texas Tubes, and Comal Tubes offer tube rentals and shuttle services to get you on the river. +1
Parking at Landa Park is generally free, though specific event days might have different arrangements. The city has made improvements to parking facilities.
While you can drive to Landa Park, you'll typically need to use shuttle services provided by outfitters to get your tubes and yourself to the river entry points for floating.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Comal Springs and Landa Park are generally free to enter. There are costs associated with tube rentals and shuttle services if you plan to float the river. +1
Landa Park is typically open from sunrise to sunset. River outfitters have their own operating hours, usually starting around 10 AM during the floating season.
Tube rentals and shuttle services can range from $25-$35 per person, depending on the outfitter and duration of the float.
Yes, most outfitters allow you to bring your own coolers, food, and drinks on the river. Check with your chosen outfitter for specific policies.
The Tube Chute is part of the Comal River experience. While there's no separate fee for the chute itself, you'll need to pay for tube rentals and potentially shuttle services to access it.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can swim and wade in the natural spring pools, float the Comal River, explore Landa Park's trails, and enjoy the scenery.
Yes, the shallow spring-fed pools are great for kids to splash in. The start of the Comal River is also a neat educational experience for them.
The springs maintain a cool, consistent temperature year-round, typically around 72 degrees Fahrenheit, making them refreshing even on hot days.
Landa Park offers restrooms and picnic areas, making it a convenient spot for a day trip with family and friends.
You might spot various birds and small aquatic life. One TikTok showed a turtle near the riverbank!
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
New Braunfels has many dining options. You can also pack a picnic to enjoy in Landa Park or bring food and drinks for your river float. +1
Some river outfitters may sell snacks and drinks, but it's best to bring your own or plan to eat before or after your float.
Many people bring coolers with drinks, sandwiches, and snacks. Some even bring seafood like crawfish for a true Texas experience! +1
New Braunfels offers a variety of cuisines, from Tex-Mex to German fare. Exploring the local restaurants is part of the experience.
Alcohol is generally permitted on the Comal River, but glass containers are prohibited. Always check with your chosen outfitter for their specific rules.
📸 📸 Photography
The natural beauty of the springs, the riverbanks, and the surrounding Landa Park offer numerous picturesque locations for photos.
It's possible, but be cautious with your phone or camera. Waterproof cases are highly recommended. Many people capture the fun with action cameras.
Capturing the unique phenomenon of the springs bubbling up from the earth or the iconic Tube Chute in action are great photo opportunities.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide softer light for photography. Midday can be bright but still offers great opportunities for capturing the vibrant water.
Drone regulations can vary. It's best to check with Landa Park or local authorities for current rules regarding drone usage to avoid any issues.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
💑 Couples
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Majesty of Comal Springs
+1 For thousands of years, Indigenous peoples, including the Coahuiltecan, lived around these sacred waters, viewing them as more than just a water source but as a connection between earth and sky. +1 The springs emerge from deep within the Earth's crust, maintaining a consistently cool temperature of around 72 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, making them a refreshing oasis. In the 1840s, German settlers established New Braunfels here, and the springs continue to shape the city's culture, economy, and environment.
While the springs are a vital natural resource, visitors have noted that drought conditions can significantly impact their flow, sometimes leaving them as a trickle or even dry. Floating the Comal River: A Texas Tradition
The floating season typically kicks off in March, with outfitters like Rockin' R opening their doors for the spring and summer. When planning your float, consider visiting on weekdays to avoid the peak crowds that gather on weekends and during hot summer days.
Landa Park: More Than Just Springs
Beyond the natural springs, Landa Park often hosts events and activities, adding to its appeal. For instance, it's been a location for seasonal attractions like pumpkin patches, offering a festive atmosphere.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit