Float the Day Away on the San Marcos River
Floating the river in San Marcos is a timeless Texas tradition that is full of sunshine and crystal-clear water. If you’re searching for fun things to do in San Marcos, tubing is a must and perfect for both first-time visitors and long-time locals. With easy San Marcos river access, multiple take-off points, and shuttle services available, floating the river has never been easier. There are a range of different tubing outfitters that offer everything from cooler tubes for your drinks to convenient pickup services. Most floats last between 1.5 to 3 hours and include stretches of calm water, scenic views, and a few mild rapids to keep things exciting.
Local businesses like Lions Club Tube Rental, Don’s Fish Camp, Texas State Tubes, and Great Gonzo’s Tubes & Shuttles specialize in creating fun, stress-free tubing experiences for small or large groups. Discover exactly what they have to offer below. Whether you’re tubing with friends, family, or riding solo, river tubing is a refreshing escape that anyone can enjoy. Get ready to pack your sunscreen, grab your tube, and participate in one of the most iconic activities in San Marcos.
Texas State Tubes
Located just 10 minutes east of San Marcos, Texas State Tubes allows you to experience the best of San Marcos river tubing. They innovatively created a “boat ramp” to make it convenient for customers to get out of the river. Along with their walk up and tube option, Texas State Tubes makes it easy for you to enjoy a seamless and exciting day on the river. If you already have your own tube, you can bring it with you and hop in. They offer public and private tubing trips and their shuttle service will bring you back to your original location after hours of fun.
They are open all week May 1st – August 30th. In March, April, & September, they are open Friday – Saturday. They will pick you up if you are no more than 45-min from the river. Celebrate bachelorette/bachelor parties, graduation, or birthday parties here.
Details:
Price Range: $20-$69
Packages: Walk-Up Tubing & Shuttles, Public Austin Tubing Trip, Private Tubing Trip
Location: 2024 North Old Bastrop Hwy, San Marcos, TX 78666(opens in a new tab)
Contact Info:
Email: richl1075@yahoo.com(opens in a new tab)
Tel: (512) 638-7165(opens in a new tab)
Website: https://texasstatetubes.com/(opens in a new tab)
Hours of Operation:
Monday – Thursday: 11 am – 4 pm
Friday – Sunday: 10 am – 4 pm
Don’s Fish Camp
Don’s Fish Camp is a go-to spot for anyone wanting to float the river in San Marcos. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and easy-going vibes, this popular tubing outfitter provides you with everything you need to have an amazing day out on the water. Their tube rentals are affordable and their shuttle service allows you to keep the fun going all day long. Along with providing tube rentals, they also have camping sites, a rope swing, picnic areas, fishing, bathrooms on site, and a beach area to hangout. Don’s is one of the best ways to experience classic San Marcos river activities in true Texas style.
First responders, students, and military can present ID and get discounted rentals!
Details:
Price Range: $19-$30
Packages: River Tubing Float Passes, Camping Reservations
Location: 105 Nelle Ln, Martindale, TX 78655(opens in a new tab)
Contact Info:
Email: Info@donsfishcamp.com(opens in a new tab)
Tel: (512) 357-1285(opens in a new tab)
Website: https://donsfishcamp.com/(opens in a new tab)
Hours of Operation:
Monday – Friday: 11:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Saturday – Sunday (and holidays): 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Lion’s Club
Lion’s Club is a local favorite that offers tube rentals and shuttle service. Their rentals and shuttle passes are unlimited, so you can enjoy a relaxing San Marcos river float as many times as you want between their operating hours. The float itself lasts about an hour and ends just before the three falls at Rio Vista Park. Their rentals are valid all day, allowing you flexibility in your schedule. Even better? Lion’s Club donates to over 100 charities in the area—so you can know you’re making a difference while having fun.
Lion’s Club donates to over 100 charities and individuals in the area. All profits go directly to these charities.
Details:
Price Range: $25-$45+
Packages: Tube Rentals, Shuttle Passes, Life Jacket Rentals, Locker Rentals
Location: 170 Charles Austin Drive, San Marcos, TX 78666(opens in a new tab)
Contact Info:
Email: tubesanmarcos@gmail.com(opens in a new tab)
Tel: (512) 396-5466(opens in a new tab)
Website: https://www.tubesanmarcos.com/(opens in a new tab)
Hours of Operation:
Mon-Wed, Fri-Sun: 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM
Thursday: 10:00 AM – 7:30 AM
Check Out More Fun Things to Do in San Marcos
Places to Stay
Where to Shop
Weddings & Events
Kayaking
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Have questions about activities near the San Marcos River, planning a weekend getaway, or booking your stay at one of Western 1924’s luxury lofts? We’re here to help! Send us a message and we’ll be in touch!