Tubing Near Austin: Best Rivers in Texas (2025)

Tubing near Austin: another way to get out and enjoy an active day in Central Texas!

This is kind of an atypical post for my business Alexander Training, but it’s not atypical for me. I’m a personal trainer here in Austin, Texas, and I love being outdoorsy, and I love when my clients get out and enjoy active fun. 

And yall, I love tubing! It might be the most fun you can have outdoors in Texas. The rivers here are gorgeous, comfortable, and safe. Of course there is always some inherent risk on the water, but these rivers are pretty calm; not rapid or turbulent.

I’m talking about the lazy river kind of floating a gorgeous day away tubing. Not being pulled behind a boat. For this kind of river tubing, you’ll want to head south a little bit out of Austin. The closest tubing trips to Austin will be on the San Marcos River, the Guadalupe River, and the Comal River.

Top River Tubing Near Austin

1. San Marcos River (Texas State Tubes)

• Starting point: 2024 N Old Bastrop Hwy, a little over half an hour drive from Downtown Austin.
• Known for: The spring-fed San Marcos River, offering a consistent flow and cooler temperatures.
• Services: Tube rentals, cooler tubes, and life jackets included.
• Experience: Ideal for bachelorette parties, large group outings, or just a relaxing experience in nature.

2. Comal River (Texas Tubes)

• Location: In New Braunfels, about 45 -60 minutes from the Austin area. 250 Meusebach St., New Braunfels, TX 78130.
• Known for: Clear water, a short but scenic loop, and a party type atmosphere
• Extras: Offers rental tube options (or you can bring your own tube), public access points, and free street parking

3. Guadalupe River (Rockin R River Rides)

• Where: Rockin’ R has 5 locations on the Guadalupe and Comal Rivers. Best way: Combines natural beauty, great brewery tours, and a bit of adventure
• Popular venue: Canyon Lake area is nearby
• Trip hosts: Great for types of tours from chill floats to party rides

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Shuttle & Transportation Options

Some Austin tubing trips include roundtrip transportation, but it’s important to plan ahead since not all options offer this service. Pickup is often available from popular spots like East Riverside, downtown Austin, or other pre-arranged locations.

Larger groups or those booking private trips can often arrange for private pickup services as part of their package. Shuttle rides are fun and safe, so if you have a bachelorette float trip or bachelor party, this is a good way to go!

Whether you’re using your own bus or hopping on a provided shuttle, most tours include a ride back to the starting point after the float. Be sure to check your trip’s departure times and arrive at least 30 minutes in advance of the scheduled trip time to ensure a smooth experience.

What to Bring When You Go Tubing

• Adult beverages allowed (no glass containers); bring your own cooler.
• Water shoes, sun protection, and life vest are encouraged for the safest experience. 
• Expect a brief safety presentation at the start of the float.
• Waiver of liability required for every tubing/tour participant.
• In the event of a cancellation, check your provider’s policy
• Air temperatures and water levels affect the best time of year to float. May is going to be kinda chilly! The water will stay warm and comfortable through the later months, into August and early September. 
• Holiday weekends are going to be crazy crazy! Expect a party on the river with lots of different crowds, speakers and characters around you. 

Float Trip Duration

• Most floats are a 2-4 hour float, with options for a whole day of fun. When in doubt, I suggest the long float!
• Float ends at designated end of the float drop-off near a parking lot. You’ll have a bus ride back to the parking lot.

Tubing Near Austin: Try It Out!

If you’re looking for the best tubing experience near Downtown Austin, you can’t go wrong with going south a little bit to Texas State Tubes, Texas Tubes or Rockin’ R. Whether you want a public option or a private option, there’s something for everyone—and it’s just a couple bucks more for extras like cooler tubes and shuttle perks.

I hope you get out and enjoy Austin this summer! If you have other fun, active ways you like to get out and spend your summertime, let me know! 

Need ideas for cheap fun, closer to (in) Austin?

Work With Me!

If you are looking for a personal trainer in Austin, I’d love to talk with you! If you are not in Austin, Round Rock, or central Texas, let’s talk about online training.

Message me here for a free consult about personal training in Austin, Texas, or here for online personal training, and we’ll discuss your goals, background, equipment availability, schedule, and exercise preferences.

Let’s get you strong and healthy! 💪

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