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The Ultimate Guide to Tubing in Austin, TX

  • Austin Nites Party Bus
  • Jun 26
  • 3 min read
Tubing in Austin
Tubing in Austin, TX

Tubing in Austin

Key Points Summary

Feature

Details

Best Time to Go

Late May – Early September (80°F+ weather)

Top Rivers

San Marcos, Guadalupe, Comal, and the Colorado

Transportation Tip

Party bus rentals for group tubing trips

Essentials to Bring

Waterproof bag, sunscreen, water shoes, drinks

Ideal For

Friends, birthdays, bachelor/ette parties, or chill weekends

Table of Contents

Tubing Austin TX: Why It's So Popular

Austin is famous for its natural swimming holes, laid-back culture, and hot summers—all perfect ingredients for a tubing adventure. Locals and tourists alike flock to nearby rivers for a lazy float, cold drinks, and epic views.


Why tubing in Austin TX stands out:

  • Close to downtown yet feels like a getaway

  • BYOB-friendly rivers

  • Easily paired with a party bus for group outings

  • Popular for birthdays, corporate events, and bachelor/bachelorette parties


Top Spots for Tubing in Austin

While Austin itself doesn’t have many rivers directly in the city ideal for tubing, there are several amazing options nearby:

San Marcos River

  • Distance from Austin: ~45 minutes

  • Vibe: Clear spring-fed water, college-town party scene

  • Best For: Groups, loud music, BYOB floats

  • Popular Outfitters: Texas State Tubes, Lions Club Tube Rental

Guadalupe River

  • Distance: ~1 hour

  • Vibe: Natural beauty, longer floats

  • Best For: Nature lovers, weekend getaways, overnight camp trips

  • Popular Outfitters: Rockin’ R, Whitewater Sports

Comal River

  • Distance: ~50 minutes

  • Vibe: Short and sweet (2-3 hour float), gentle currents

  • Best For: Families, first-timers, chill afternoons

  • Popular Outfitters: Comal Tubes, Corner Tubes

Colorado River (Austin-Based)

  • In the City: Launch from spots like Montopolis or Longhorn Dam

  • Best For: DIY tubers with their own gear

  • Note: Less serviced, but scenic and peaceful


Austin Tubing Experience: What to Expect

Tubing in Austin is the perfect combination of adventure and relaxation. Here's a breakdown of what a typical float day looks like:

Activity

Description

Check-In

Arrive at your outfitter’s HQ, sign waivers, and grab your gear

Shuttle Ride

Most outfitters provide transport to and from the river

Floating

Chill for 2–6 hours (depending on the river) with drinks, music, and good company

Return Shuttle

Shuttle takes you back to your car or party bus

Tip: Most outfitters offer cooler tubes for drinks and mesh bottoms to hold your stuff.


What to Pack for Tubing in Austin

Item

Reason

Waterproof Bag

For phones, keys, and cash

Reusable Water Bottle

Stay hydrated, especially with alcohol

Sunscreen (Reef Safe)

Protect your skin from Texas sun

Sunglasses with Strap

Avoid losing them to the river gods

Water Shoes/Sandals

Some rivers have rocky areas

Snacks & Drinks

Most rivers are BYOB-friendly, no glass allowed

Party Bus Rental for Tubing in Austin

Going with a group? A party bus rental for tubing in Austin takes the whole experience to another level. It ensures safe transport, keeps the party going, and allows everyone to relax before and after floating.


Austin Party Bus Comparison Table

Bus Type

Capacity

Avg. Hourly Cost

Common Features

Small

10–15

$125–$150

Sound system, coolers, LED lights

Medium

16–25

$175–$200

Dancing pole, built-in bar, A/C

Large

26–40

$225–$275

Lounge seating, restroom, multiple coolers

Recommended Austin Party Bus Providers:

  • Austin Party Bius

  • 512 Party Bus

  • Lonestar Party Buses


Pro Tip: Many buses offer round-trip packages with coordination for tubing schedules.


Best Local Outfitters and Services

Here's a quick look at trusted tubing outfitters that service Austin-based travelers:

Outfitter

River

Inclusions

Price Range

Texas State Tubes

San Marcos

Shuttle, tube, cooler tube

$30–$45/person

Lions Club Tubes

San Marcos

Tube rental only

$20–$25

Rockin’ R

Guadalupe

Shuttle, tube, optional lodging

$35–$55

Corner Tubes

Comal

Tube, locker, return shuttle

$25–$40


Final Tips for a Safe & Fun Tubing Day

  1. Start early – Midday sun is hot; earlier floats are cooler and less crowded.

  2. Pack light – Everything you bring may get wet or lost.

  3. Bring a dry change of clothes – Especially if you're getting on a party bus afterward.

  4. Don't overdrink – Public intoxication rules apply on the river.

  5. Respect nature – Don’t litter, and avoid glass or styrofoam.


Conclusion

Whether you’re planning a wild group outing or a lazy float with a few friends, tubing in Austin Texas is a rite of passage in the Texas summer. With scenic rivers, great outfitters, and even party bus options, there’s no better way to cool off, connect, and kick back.

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