The Guadalupe River was named after Our Lady of Guadalupe by a Spanish explorer in the 1600s. The river is a center for recreation in New Braunfels, Texas. You can enjoy camping and tubing as well as other recreation such as fishing and swimming. Natural sights along the river include limestone bluffs and vegetation such as cypress, basswood, sycamore, elm, willow and hackberry, and oak and juniper woodlands.
The Guadalupe River is a popular destination for tubing and camping. The river flows from Kerr County to San Antonio Bay and into the Gulf of Mexico. Several dams are located along the river, such as the Canyon Lake dam. Locals frequent the upper section of the river for tubing, using inflated tubes in spring and summer. Camping is also another popular activity. Other recreational activities include canoeing, fishing, swimming and hiking.
Visit the Guadalupe River State Park in Spring Branch to access the water for tubing and stay at the campground. You can enjoy four miles of water frontage at the park, which is located in the middle section of the river. If you plan on tubing and camping on the same trip, this is an ideal location. Campsites for tents and RVs are available at the park. Amenities include water, electricity, picnic areas, restrooms and shower facilities.
You can choose from a variety of campgrounds located right on the river banks, such as the Mountain Breeze Campground and Camp Huaco Springs. Both campgrounds offer campsites by the water. Tent sites, RVs and cabin units are available. Campers can rent rafts and tubes on site. Campground amenities vary but may include volleyball, horseshoes, picnic tables, grills, restrooms, laundry and shower facilities.
You can rent tubes from many business establishments along the river. Many places offer tubing and rafting rentals as well as float trips that can range from 30 minutes to six hours. The Lone Star Float House on River Road offers tubing, rafting, food and live music shows.
Prices vary depending on where you go for rentals and campsites. When tubing, expect to pay for ice chest rental, tubes, parking and shuttle fees to take you back to your car. Group rates may be available at a discounted price. Campsite fees vary depending on the campground, your length of stay and the amenities that come with the site.
