Floating the river is practically a summer tradition in the Texas Hill Country. On a hot day in New Braunfels, there's nothing better than drifting down the Comal or Guadalupe River with cold water flowing around you and big cypress trees lining the banks.
If you're planning a river trip, renting from a good outfitter makes the whole day easier. They handle things like shuttle rides, parking, and getting you back to your car after the float.
Here are five of the best places to rent tubes around New Braunfels and Gruene that locals and visitors return to every summer.
1. Rockin' R River Rides
Rockin' R is one of the most established tubing outfitters in the area and has been helping people float the Comal and Guadalupe rivers for decades. They operate several locations around New Braunfels, which makes it easy to find a starting point that works for your group.
What makes Rockin' R popular is the flexibility. You can choose short floats, longer scenic stretches of the Guadalupe, or even switch things up with rafts or kayaks if you want a different kind of day on the river. Their shuttle system runs constantly during peak season, so getting back to your car after the float is simple.
If you're visiting New Braunfels for the first time and want a reliable, well-organized tubing experience, Rockin' R is one of the safest bets around.
2. Texas Tubes
If you want to float the famous Comal River Tube Chute, Texas Tubes is one of the easiest places to start. Their shop sits just a short walk from the river, making it convenient to grab a tube and get right into the water.
The Comal is spring-fed and stays around 72 degrees year-round, which means the float is cool and refreshing even in the middle of July.
Many visitors like Texas Tubes because the whole process is straightforward. You check in, grab a tube, walk down to the river, and float through the famous chute before drifting through one of the prettiest sections of the Comal. It's a great option for groups that want a shorter, lively float right in the heart of New Braunfels.
3. Corner Tubes
Corner Tubes is a favorite among people who want a simple, affordable tubing experience on the Comal River. Rentals typically include everything you need for the float along with a shuttle ride back to the shop once you reach the final public exit.
The location makes it easy to access the river quickly without a lot of complicated logistics. Grab your tube, hop on the shuttle, and enjoy a relaxed float through one of the clearest rivers in Texas.
Because the Comal is shorter than the Guadalupe, this option works really well for families or groups that want a laid-back float without committing to an all-day trip.
4. Little Ponderosa River Outfitters
Located along scenic River Road between the third and fourth river crossings, Little Ponderosa offers a quieter and more relaxed way to float the Guadalupe River. This outfitter is family-owned and focuses on a more personal experience compared to some of the larger rental operations.
The floats here tend to be longer and a little more peaceful than the busy sections closer to town. Expect tall cypress trees, limestone riverbanks, and plenty of shady spots along the water.
If you're looking for a classic Hill Country river float that feels a little more off the beaten path, this is a great place to start.
5. Son's Guadalupe
Son's Guadalupe combines tubing with a full river hangout experience. Located along River Road just outside New Braunfels, the property offers tubing rentals along with riverside cabanas and picnic areas where you can relax before or after your float.
Many visitors like to spend the whole afternoon here, floating the river for a couple of hours and then hanging out by the water afterward. The stretch of the Guadalupe in this area has gentle rapids and beautiful scenery, making it a favorite for groups and summer gatherings.
If you want more of a river-day destination instead of just a quick float, Son's Guadalupe is worth checking out.
Tips for a Great River Float in New Braunfels
Before heading out, keep a few local tips in mind:
- Summer tubing season usually runs May through mid-August, when river traffic is at its peak.
- Most outfitters provide tube rentals and shuttle transportation back to your starting point.
- Glass containers are not allowed on Texas rivers, and disposable containers are restricted in some areas.
Arriving early in the morning can make a big difference. You'll beat the crowds and enjoy a quieter float before the afternoon rush.
Stay Close to the River
If you're planning a tubing trip to New Braunfels or Gruene, staying close to the river makes the experience even better. After a long day floating, it's nice to head back to a comfortable place nearby instead of driving home.
Wiggins Homestays offers several vacation homes near the Guadalupe and Comal Rivers, perfect for summer river trips, group getaways, and Hill Country weekends. Here are three of our guest-favorite homes:
Latigo — Riverfront luxury in Gruene
Luxury riverfront home in the heart of historic Gruene, walking distance to Gruene Hall. 4 king bedrooms, each with a dedicated full bathroom. Sleeps 10. Outdoor kitchen, big covered patio, and direct river access. Perfect for family getaways and small group retreats.
Gruene River Retreat — Designer home, walk to Gruene Hall
Stunning riverfront home with 4 ensuite bedrooms, sleeps 12. Outdoor kitchen, private putting green, kayaks included, direct Guadalupe access. Walking distance to Gruene Hall, shops, and restaurants.
Lariat Springs — Hilltop villa, minutes to Whitewater Amphitheater
One-of-a-kind luxury hilltop villa between Canyon Lake and New Braunfels. 6 bedrooms, sleeps 16, infinity pool, heated spa, chef's kitchen, and outdoor pizza oven. Minutes from Whitewater Amphitheater and tube rentals on the Guadalupe. Event-friendly for family gatherings, retreats, and milestone celebrations.