San Marcos River Tubing Lions Club
Float the crystal-clear San Marcos River, enjoying natural rapids and lush scenery. A quintessential Texas summer adventure!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
San Marcos River Tubing Lions Club
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Float the crystal-clear San Marcos River, enjoying natural rapids and lush scenery. A quintessential Texas summer adventure!
"This has easily become my favorite. Lots of flexibility, not a ridiculous amount of restrictions, yet a wonderful experience still."
🎯 Rent Tubes from Lions Club
Easy tube rentals and shuttle service make for a convenient tubing experience.
👟 Wear Water Shoes
Protect your feet from the riverbed and avoid losing sandals.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Natural Water Slides
Rio Vista Park
Experience thrilling, free natural rapids perfect for tubing and swimming.
Scenic River Float
San Marcos River
Enjoy a relaxing 1-2 hour float through lush scenery, spotting wildlife like turtles and fish.
Lions Club Tube Rentals
Near City Park
Conveniently rent tubes and access the river for a hassle-free tubing adventure.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Heat
River Rules & What to Bring
Pack sunscreen, a hat, and water shoes as the riverbed can be uneven and you might lose sandals. Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Rent Tubes from Lions Club
Easy tube rentals and shuttle service make for a convenient tubing experience.
👟 Wear Water Shoes
Protect your feet from the riverbed and avoid losing sandals.
☀️ Sunscreen is a Must
Limited shade means you'll need protection from the Texas sun.
♻️ Reusable Containers Only
No single-use cans or bottles allowed on the river.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Rent Tubes from Lions Club
Easy tube rentals and shuttle service make for a convenient tubing experience.
👟 Wear Water Shoes
Protect your feet from the riverbed and avoid losing sandals.
☀️ Sunscreen is a Must
Limited shade means you'll need protection from the Texas sun.
♻️ Reusable Containers Only
No single-use cans or bottles allowed on the river.
🏞️ Start at Rio Vista Park
A great free access point with natural rapids to enjoy. +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
San Marcos River tubing is a beloved Texas summer activity, praised for its clear, cool water, scenic beauty, and fun natural rapids. Visitors appreciate the affordability and convenience of rental services. However, some reviews highlight concerns about overcrowding and the presence of excessive alcohol and marijuana use, which can detract from a family-friendly atmosphere.
"This was the highlight of our Texas trip! We spent half of a day there from about 1 to close. We made 2 trips down the river. We rented tubes and took the bus back to the starting point which was super convenient. We love seeing the wildlife, turtles, fish and the lush trees the whole way. Going down the 3 waterfalls was also super fun. Would go back in a heart beat"
Xochitl C Beckley
"Fantastic experience. I’ve normally gone to New Braunfels to Tube but this has easily become my favorite. I’ll be coming back for sure. Lots of flexibility, not a ridiculous amount of restrictions, yet a wonderful experience still. The check in desk, tube pick up and return are run so smoothly! Great parking as well!"
Brooke Mayden
"Tubing on the San Marcos River is a fun, relaxing experience perfect for hot Texas days. The water is crystal clear, spring-fed, and stays cool year-round. It’s a great way to unwind with friends or family while floating through scenic nature. The float is usually about 1–2 hours, depending on where you start. Several local outfitters offer tube rentals and shuttle services, making the whole process easy and convenient.
Pros:
• Clean, cool water
• Relaxing and scenic float
• Family-friendly and affordable
Cons:
• Can get crowded on weekends
• Limited shade — bring sunscreen
• Occasional debris or shallow spots
Overall, it’s a must-try Texas summer activity!"
Citiz
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
San Marcos is easily accessible by car, located between Austin and San Antonio. For tubing, head to popular access points like Rio Vista Park or near the Lions Club Tube Rentals. Parking is available at various points along the river. +1
While there isn't direct public transport to all tubing spots, the city of San Marcos has bus routes that can get you close to the river access points.
Many outfitters, like the Lions Club, offer shuttle services to take you back to your starting point after your float.
San Marcos is approximately a 45-minute to 1-hour drive south of Austin, making it a popular day trip destination.
Yes, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in San Marcos and can be a convenient option for getting to and from the river.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Access to Rio Vista Park is free, and you can bring your own tubes. Tube rentals are available from places like the San Marcos Lions Club. +1
Tube rental prices can vary, but they are generally affordable. The Lions Club offers rentals, and it's a popular choice for convenience. +1
San Marcos Lions Club Tube Rentals are typically open daily from 10 am to 6 pm during the tubing season.
Rio Vista Park offers free entry, making it a budget-friendly option for enjoying the river.
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own kayaks and paddleboards to enjoy on the San Marcos River.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The San Marcos River is spring-fed, meaning the water is crystal clear, cool year-round, and generally clean.
A typical float on the San Marcos River lasts about 1 to 2 hours, depending on your starting point and the river's flow.
Yes, Rio Vista Park features three small natural rapids that are fun to tube or swim down.
You might spot turtles, fish, and various birds along the riverbanks as you float through the scenic natural environment.
While many find it family-friendly, some reviews mention concerns about excessive alcohol and marijuana use by other tubers, which can detract from a family atmosphere.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are several options. Ivar's River Pub offers great views and food, and other restaurants are available in downtown San Marcos.
You can bring your own food, but remember that only reusable containers are allowed for drinks; no single-use cans or bottles.
Rio Vista Park and other access points often have picnic tables, making it a great spot for a riverside lunch.
San Marcos offers a range of dining, from casual pubs with river views to various restaurants in the downtown area.
Alcohol is permitted, but it must be in reusable containers. Be mindful of other tubers, as some reviews note it can get rowdy.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture shots of the natural rapids at Rio Vista Park, the lush riverbanks, and wildlife. The clear water also makes for great underwater photos if you have a waterproof camera.
It's recommended to use a waterproof phone case or a floating lanyard to protect your device from accidental drops into the water.
Late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour lighting, while mornings can provide softer light and fewer people for unobstructed shots.
Rio Vista Park with its rapids is a key spot. The general scenic beauty of the riverbanks and the clear water itself are photographic highlights. +1
Drone usage regulations can vary by park and local ordinances. It's best to check with the San Marcos Parks and Recreation department before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
This allows you to enjoy the natural rapids and scenic river without any rental or entry fees. Packing your own snacks and drinks in reusable containers will further cut down costs. If you need to rent tubes, the San Marcos Lions Club offers affordable options. 🎉 Groups & Celebrations
+1 These locations often provide private river access, making your celebration more exclusive. Remember the reusable container rule for drinks to keep the party going responsibly. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Choosing Your Tubing Experience
+1When planning your float, consider the duration. A standard float can take 1-2 hours, but some visitors have enjoyed much longer excursions, up to six and a half hours!
Key takeaway: Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly day of fun or a more luxurious riverfront getaway, San Marcos has an option to suit your style. Always check the latest rules and recommendations before you go.
River Etiquette and Rules
This helps keep the river cleaner and reduces litter. Violators may face fines, so it's important to comply. While alcohol is permitted, it's important to be mindful of your surroundings. Some reviews mention that the river can get crowded with groups openly consuming alcohol and marijuana, which can be off-putting for families seeking a peaceful experience.
Important Reminders: Always pack out what you pack in, be aware of the river's flow, and stay hydrated. Wearing appropriate footwear is also advised, as the riverbed can be uneven and you might lose sandals.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit