Waterparks are great, but they don’t hold a candle to the rugged beauty of Mother Nature. Tubing is an essential summertime activity here, and these are seven of the best lazy rivers in Texas that offer some of the best floats. Who else is counting down the days? I know I am!

1. Guadalupe River
Guadalupe River, Texas, USA
Flickr/Dustin Larimer
The Guadalupe River is one of the biggest hotspots for lazy river tubing and for good reason! Water this pristine can't be found just anywhere. You can choose from several different river outfitters, most of which offer air-conditioned shuttle rides to and from public access points. This is one of the best places to float the river in Texas. Learn more information on the New Braunfels, Texas website.

Take a look at this video by @wereoutnabout:
2. Comal River
Comal River, New Braunfels, TX 78130, USA
Flickr/Jeff Gunn
Bordering Schlitterbahn, the Comal is undoubtedly the river of choice for most Texans. It actually merges with the Guadalupe at some point, although you'd be none the wiser judging solely by how the water looks -- this natural lazy river in Texas is a much deeper blue; almost black in some areas. The water temperature is a steady 70-72 degrees year-round, and there's an epic tube chute that adds a thrill to the otherwise mellow float. Check out more information on the New Braunfels, Texas website.
3. San Marcos River
San Marcos River, Texas, USA
Flickr/Sean Loyless
Some of the cleanest water in the state can be found right here in the San Marcos River, making it an ideal place for lazy river tubing in Texas. Cutting through a busy college town, the environment is surprisingly rugged; massive trees and other lush greenery line the banks on either side. Most commercial floats are about a mile, but you can always forge your own longer path! It's much less crowded than the Comal and Guadalupe, making for a much more low-key adventure. More information is available on the Lions Club Tube Rental website.

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4. Frio River
Frio River, Texas 78071, USA
Flickr/J.D. Page
Flowing on for almost 50 miles, the Frio River is located much further West than all the aforementioned bodies of water. This means the landscape is entirely different -- think jutting limestone canyons that tower up into the clouds. There are many access points, but by far the most commonly used is Garner State Park in Concan. Learn more about this beautiful river on the Texas Parks & Wildlife website.

Take a look at this video by @jjespinal386:
5. Medina River
Medina River, Medina, TX 78055, USA
Flickr/mlhradio
Often overlooked in favor of the more well-known rivers, the Medina is a true hidden gem passing straight through the "Cowboy Capital of Texas," or Bandera. It's slow-flowing as minimally trafficked as it gets, so you'll surely feel relaxed and rejuvenated after the float. Check out more information on The Medina River Co. website.
6. Brazos River
Brazos River, Texas, USA
Flickr/cmh2315fl
The Brazos River is slow-moving and incredibly scenic. Try to make the trip before late summer to ensure a steady current. Many access points exist, but entering near Possum Kingdom Lake will provide the most breathtaking views. Visit the Brazos River Authority website for more information.
7. Trinity River
Trinity River, Texas 77514, USA
Flickr/- Adam Reeder -
A favorite summer hangout spot among North Texans, the Trinity River is mild enough that tubers can simply float around the general area in which they entered without getting swept away. The Trinity is also home to the Rockin' the River Concert Series at which bands perform on Texas' only waterfront stage over the course of the summer. You can learn more on the Rockin' the River website. It's the most fun you'll have while lazy river tubing in Texas!

Have you tubed any of the best lazy rivers in Texas? Which one is your favorite? Let us know your thoughts, and check out the incredibly fun Comal tube chute: Everyone In Texas Should Do This Awesome Activity At Least Once.

Are there any restaurants, businesses, or other attractions in Texas you think the world should know about? Head over to our nomination page and give them a shoutout — you just might see your submission featured in an upcoming article!

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More to Explore

Best Lazy Rivers In Texas

Melissa M | May 01, 2021

What are some fun summer activities in Texas?

Other fun summer activities in Texas include:

  • Hiking
  • Camping
  • Swimming at a swimming hole, or pool, or head to a waterpark
  • Exploring charming towns which are abundant around the state.
  • There are also some man-made lazy rivers you can check out like the one at BSR Cable Park in Waco. At 5,280 feet, this happens to be the longest lazy river in the world.

 

Check out more ideas on what to add to your Texas summer activities.

Does Texas have any beaches?

When you think about Texas, the word 'beach' is probably not the first thing that comes to mind. Although the state is not known for its beaches, it does have a substantial coastline of 367 miles along the Gulf of Mexico. And with all that coastline comes some beach destinations like South Padre Island, which is quite popular with tourists, especially during the summer months. If you want a beach that’s not overrun with tourists, head to Mustang Island State Park which has some of the most pristine white sand you can find in Texas.  

Are there any amusement parks in Texas?

Yes, and here are some amusement parks in Texas to visit:

  •  Gravity Park is located right on the beach in South Padre Island and has everything you could want for a fun time - rides, games, go-karts, mini-golf, and more! What better place to spend the day than here and the beach? 
  • ZDT’s Amusement Park near Austin features a pretty epic wooden roller coaster and a water park. It's a great day trip destination.

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