Picture of Guadalupe River along the road.
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River Road Guadalupe

4.6
·491k reviews·New Braunfels, United States

Experience the iconic Guadalupe River on River Road, New Braunfels. Float, camp, and enjoy scenic drives in the heart of the Texas Hill Country.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Beat the weekend rush

CrowdLow
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Picture of Guadalupe River along the road.

River Road Guadalupe

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Beat the weekend rush

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience the iconic Guadalupe River on River Road, New Braunfels. Float, camp, and enjoy scenic drives in the heart of the Texas Hill Country.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"The Guadalupe River on River Road offers the ultimate Texas Hill Country tubing and camping experience."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Plan Your Float Route

Research different river access points and rental companies. Consider the length of your float and potential shuttle services.

☀️ Pack Sun Protection

Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are essential for a full day on the river. Stay hydrated!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Guadalupe River Float

Guadalupe River Float

Various access points along River Road

Experience the quintessential Texas river adventure by floating down the Guadalupe River. Relax and soak up the sun on a tube or raft.

Scenic River Road Drive

Scenic River Road Drive

New Braunfels, Texas

Enjoy a picturesque drive along River Road, offering stunning views of the Guadalupe River and the Texas Hill Country.

River Road Market Days

River Road Market Days

Grouchy Goose, New Braunfels

Browse local crafts, enjoy food and drinks by the river during these popular weekend market events.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything on River Road

River Road in New Braunfels, Texas, is a popular destination, especially during warmer months. To avoid the biggest crowds, consider visiting on weekdays or during the shoulder seasons. Be aware of potential flash floods, especially after heavy rain, which can lead to closures and evacuations. TikTokInstagram+1

Embrace the River Life

River Road is synonymous with tubing and floating down the Guadalupe River. Many visitors rent tubes or rafts for a leisurely day on the water. Plan for a full day of relaxation, but also be prepared for varying water levels and currents. TikTokInstagram+1

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Beat the weekend rush
Crowd
Low
When
Fall and Spring
Why
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer evenings
Why
Cooler temps, sunset views
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

HOW FAST WAS HE GOING IN THOSE CROCS?? 📍Comal River, New Braunfels, Tx #nbtx #newbraunfels #newbraunfelstexas #comalriver
@pura.pinche.pulga
222.4K likes • 3.1M views

🚗 Plan Your Float Route

Research different river access points and rental companies. Consider the length of your float and potential shuttle services. InstagramReddit

☀️ Pack Sun Protection

Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are essential for a full day on the river. Stay hydrated! TikTok

Summer Views on the Comal River ☀️🌊🛟 Comal River 🌊 📍New Braunfels, Texas #comalriver #tubechute #fyp #newbraunfelstexas
@inandaroundnbtx
108.9K likes • 3.9M views
River Road 🌊 📍New Braunfels, Texas One of our favorite roads to drive down, along the beautiful Guadalupe River. ♥️ . . . . . River Road • Scenic Drive • Guadalupe River • New Braunfels, Texas • Texas Hill Country • Texas Views . . . . . #guadaluperiver #riverroad #newbraunfels #newbraunfelstx #newbraunfelstexas #nbtx #takeadrive #riverroadnewbraunfels #naturetherapy #peaceful #getoutside #thin...
hillcountrycampers
221 likes • 6.5K views

🚫 Leave No Trace

Pack out all trash and respect the natural environment. Keep the river clean for everyone. Instagram

⚠️ Check Weather & River Conditions

Flash floods can occur. Always check local weather and river reports before heading out. TikTokInstagram+1

Welcome to Guadalupe Lodge on River Road 🛶🦌 We can’t wait to host you. Booking link in Bio or DM for info!! #riverroad #guadalupe #guadaluperiver #Summer #familyvacation #riverhouse #float #guadalupefloat #paddletx #bigchiefvacationproperties #whitewateramphitheater #nbtx #newbraunfelstx #newbraunfels
bigchiefvacationproperties
47 likes • 1.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Plan Your Float Route

Research different river access points and rental companies. Consider the length of your float and potential shuttle services. InstagramReddit

☀️ Pack Sun Protection

Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are essential for a full day on the river. Stay hydrated! TikTok

🚫 Leave No Trace

Pack out all trash and respect the natural environment. Keep the river clean for everyone. Instagram

⚠️ Check Weather & River Conditions

Flash floods can occur. Always check local weather and river reports before heading out. TikTokInstagram+1

💰 Consider Tube Rentals

Many outfitters offer tube, raft, and kayak rentals, often with shuttle services. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the quintessential Texas river experience on River Road, highlighting the fun of tubing and floating the Guadalupe River. The scenic drive and opportunities for camping and relaxation are major draws. However, be prepared for crowds, especially on weekends, and always monitor weather conditions due to the risk of flash floods.

What People Like

Fun river tubing
Scenic drive
Camping opportunities

What People Dislike

Crowds on weekends
Flash flood risks

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

River Road is a scenic route located in New Braunfels, Texas, running alongside the Guadalupe River. It's accessible by car and is a popular destination for day trips and weekend getaways. Many visitors drive their own vehicles and park at designated access points or rental outfitters. Instagram+1

Public transport options directly to River Road are limited. It's best accessed by private vehicle. Consider ride-sharing services if you're staying in nearby New Braunfels, but confirm availability for the specific River Road location. TikTok

Parking can be found at various river outfitters who offer tube rentals and shuttle services. Some private properties also offer day parking for a fee. Arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking fills up quickly. Instagram

Yes, River Road is a public road that winds along the Guadalupe River. It's a popular scenic drive, especially for those looking for river access or camping spots. Instagram+1

River Road is known for its numerous river access points, campgrounds, and vacation rentals. You'll also find places like the Grouchy Goose for market days and various outfitters offering tubing and rafting. Instagram+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Accessing River Road itself is free as it's a public road. However, if you plan to rent tubes, rafts, or kayaks, or use private river access points and shuttle services, you will need to purchase those. Instagram+1

Costs vary depending on the outfitter and the duration of your rental. Expect to pay anywhere from $20-$40 per person for tube rentals and shuttle services. Instagram

While River Road itself is free to drive, some private campgrounds or resorts along the river may charge day-use fees for access to their facilities or river entry. Instagram

Yes, you are welcome to bring your own tubes and rafts. However, you'll still need to arrange for transportation back to your starting point if you don't plan to float back to where you parked. Reddit

Operating hours for river outfitters typically vary by season and day of the week. Most are open daily during the warmer months, generally from around 9 AM to 4 PM, but it's best to check with specific outfitters. Instagram

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The most popular way is to float down the river on a tube or raft. You can rent equipment from various outfitters along River Road, many of which offer shuttle services. TikTokInstagram+1

Yes, River Road is known for its campgrounds, including RV parks and riverside camping spots. Some offer amenities like hookups and direct river access. TikTokInstagram+1

You might spot various birds, turtles, and fish in the river. Some visitors have even reported seeing deer or other small mammals in the surrounding Hill Country. TikTok

Yes, River Road can be family-friendly, especially for tubing. Choose calmer sections of the river and ensure children are supervised and wearing life vests. Some resorts offer family-friendly amenities. Instagram

While River Road is on the Guadalupe, the Comal River in New Braunfels also has popular 'tube chutes' which are man-made channels designed to add a bit of excitement to the float. TikTok+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Dining options directly on River Road are somewhat limited, often consisting of casual spots like the Grouchy Goose which hosts market days. Many visitors pack their own food and drinks for picnics or stop at restaurants in nearby New Braunfels before or after their river excursion. Instagram

Absolutely! Bringing your own cooler with food and drinks is very common and recommended, especially for a full day of tubing. Just be sure to pack out everything you bring in. TikTok

Some establishments along River Road offer drinks, especially those that cater to tubers and campers. The Grouchy Goose is one such spot that serves drinks during its market days. TikTokInstagram

Many of the river access points and campgrounds offer scenic spots for picnics. Look for designated picnic areas or find a quiet spot along the riverbank. TikTok

You'll find major grocery stores in New Braunfels, which is a short drive from River Road. It's advisable to stock up on supplies before heading out to the river. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The scenic Guadalupe River itself, the lush Texas Hill Country landscapes, and the vibrant atmosphere of people enjoying the water are prime photo subjects. Sunset views can also be spectacular. TikTokInstagram+1

It's recommended to use waterproof cases or dry bags for your phone and camera when on the river to protect them from water damage. TikTok

Early morning and late afternoon/early evening offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Sunsets can be particularly stunning. TikTok

While River Road is primarily about the river experience, nearby areas might offer unique geological formations or scenic overlooks. The TikTok video mentions 'Closed Canyon' and 'The Hoodoos Trailhead' as potential photo spots, though these might be further afield. TikTok

Drone usage regulations can vary. Always check local ordinances and be mindful of private property and other visitors. It's best to fly responsibly and maintain a safe distance. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

River Road offers a fantastic family-friendly experience, especially for a day of tubing on the Guadalupe River. Opt for shorter, calmer stretches of the river and ensure all children wear life vests. Instagram Many outfitters provide family-sized rafts and tubes. Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid the largest crowds. TikTok

Look for campgrounds or resorts that offer family amenities, such as swimming areas or playgrounds. Packing plenty of snacks and drinks is a must, and remember to teach children about river safety and the importance of not littering. Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

To enjoy River Road on a budget, consider bringing your own tubes and coolers filled with food and drinks. This significantly cuts down on rental and food costs. TikTok While some private campgrounds and access points charge fees, many sections of the Guadalupe River are accessible for free if you can find public access or are willing to walk a bit. Reddit

Visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) or on weekdays can also lead to lower rental prices and fewer expenses on activities. Exploring the scenic drive itself is free, offering beautiful views without any cost. Instagram

💑 Couples Retreat

River Road provides a charming setting for a romantic getaway. Rent a cozy cabin or treehouse for a private riverside experience, complete with the soothing sounds of the water. Instagram Enjoy a leisurely float down the Guadalupe River, perhaps with a picnic basket and some chilled beverages. TikTok

Consider visiting during the week for a more tranquil atmosphere. Many local establishments, like the Grouchy Goose during market days, offer a relaxed vibe for couples to enjoy food and drinks by the river. Instagram The scenic drive itself offers opportunities for quiet moments and beautiful sunset views. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Tubing and Floating the Guadalupe

The quintessential River Road experience revolves around tubing and floating down the Guadalupe River. Numerous outfitters along the road, such as Rockin' R River Rides, offer rentals for tubes, rafts, and kayaks, often including shuttle services to transport you back to your vehicle. Instagram Visitors can choose from various lengths of floats, from a couple of hours to a full day. It's advisable to research different rental companies and their specific offerings, as well as the typical river conditions for the time of your visit. Reddit

When planning your float, consider the time of year. Summer offers warm water and sunny skies, but also the largest crowds. Spring and fall provide more temperate weather and fewer people. Always check the river's flow rate and water levels, as heavy rains can cause flash floods and make the river unsafe. TikTokInstagram+1 Many visitors enjoy packing coolers with drinks and snacks to enhance their river day. TikTok Remember to practice 'leave no trace' principles by packing out all your trash to keep the river pristine. Instagram

Camping and Lodging on River Road

River Road is a popular destination for camping and offers a range of lodging options, from RV parks to cabins and even unique treehouses. Campgrounds like those mentioned by Hill Country Campers provide riverside sites, perfect for enjoying the natural beauty and sounds of the Guadalupe River. TikTok+1 These spots often come with amenities such as hookups, fire pits, and direct river access, making for a comfortable outdoor experience. Instagram

For those seeking more comfort, River Road Cabins and Guadalupe Lodge offer various rental properties, from cozy cabins to larger lodges suitable for families or groups. Instagram+1 These accommodations provide a great base for exploring the area, with many situated directly on the riverbanks or with scenic views. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season, as these popular spots tend to fill up quickly. Instagram

Navigating River Road: Tips and Considerations

River Road is a scenic route that can get busy, particularly on weekends and during summer months. While driving, be aware of other vehicles, cyclists, and tubers entering or exiting the river. TikTok+1 The road itself is a destination for many, offering beautiful views of the Guadalupe River and the surrounding Texas Hill Country. Instagram+1

It's crucial to stay informed about weather conditions. The area is prone to flash floods, and authorities may close sections of River Road or issue evacuation orders if conditions become dangerous. TikTokInstagram+1 Following local advisories and emergency alerts is paramount for safety. Despite the potential for crowds and weather challenges, River Road remains a beloved spot for its natural beauty and recreational opportunities, offering a classic Texas Hill Country experience. TikTok

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