Water Recreation

Swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving in the crystal clear San Marcos River are very popular recreational activities in San Marcos. Tubing, canoeing, and kayaking are also great water recreation activities, and there are several beautiful campgrounds downstream of San Marcos.

There are 8 known species in the San Marcos springs and Spring lake that are listed as endangered or threatened by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife service. Please help preserve the natural beauty and home to these species by being a responsible consumer. Please do not litter. Read more about the endangered species including the Texas Wild Rice.

Tube Rentals

San Marcos Lions Club Tube & Taxi
Charles Austin Dr.
512.396.5466

Pecan Park Tube Rental
50 Squirrel Run
512.396.0070

RIVER TIPS

A few suggestions to help you and your family/friends stay safe on the San Marcos River:

• Wear sunscreen
• Wear hats and/or sunglasses that you won't mind losing.
• Bring a waterproof pouch or zip-loc freezer bag for necessities. Recommendation: leave valuables in the car or at home/hotel room.
• Water shoes or athletic shoes are recommended. There may be rocks in some areas.
• Drink liquids to stay hydrated. Coolers and disposable containers are allowed on the San Marcos river.
• Don’t litter! Bring a litter bag or use the mesh bag provided by the Lions Club. Trash cans are located along the banks of the river and in Rio Vista Park.
• Bring rope if you want to tie multiple tubes together.
• Bring an ID, Credit Card or cash if you are renting a tube. You will have to pay for the tube as well as the deposit ($20). Lions Club sells snacks and beverages at the beginning and end of their float.

About the San Marcos River

• The San Marcos River is spring-fed which begins in San Marcos at Aquarena Center.
• Since the river is spring-fed and begins in San Marcos, the water is clear which allows you to view to the bottom of the river.
• The water is a constant 72 degrees year round.
• There are three drops/falls at Rio Vista Park; this area is called Rio Vista Falls.
• If you do not wish to go over the falls, exit the river to the left of the falls.
• Due to the natural environment, the volume of water, depth and debris can change from day to day.

Lions Club sells the following:

• Ice and Coolers
• Water, Gatorade and Soft Drinks
• Snacks (Cookies, Chips and Candy)
• Sunscreen, Sunglasses and Goggles
• Water Cameras and Water Shoes
• Life jackets and Floaties
• Air if you brought your own tube. (only $1 per tube)

Tubing can be fun for kids and adults but always take safety precautions. Remember, there are NO Lifeguards on duty. New swimmers should wear life jackets. Always have a plan or place to meet if a member of your party gets lost.

Kayak Rentals

Austin Canoe & Kayak
4554 South IH 35
512.396.2386

Power Olympic Outdoor Center
602 IH 35 North
512.203.0093

Spencer Canoes
FM 1979
Martindale, TX
512.357.6113

TG Canoes & Kayaks
402 Pecan Drive
512.353.1665

Scuba and Snorkeling 

The Dive Shop
512.396.3483 

Aquarena Center
512.245.7570

Learn more about the flow of the San Marcos River.