Floating the Comal River
We've been talking about tubing a river for years. We finally achieved it.
As Donetta and I wrapped up our two sun-soaked weeks in New Braunfels and our time at Schlitterbahn, we finally achieved our goal of floating the Comal River. We’ve been talking about tubing a river for years and there was no better time than now!
About The Comal River
We knew nothing about the river before deciding to go tubing, but since then, I’ve learned it is the shortest navigable river in Texas and is dubbed the “longest shortest river in the world” by locals. It’s a two-mile stretch that runs through the entire city limits of New Braunfels. - Wikipedia
The river is open year-round for recreation, with an average temperature of 72 degrees. So if you miss out on summer, you can still go tubing in winter.
Starting at Landa Falls
There are many places to begin floating the Comal River, including public land, but we chose Landa Falls. It’s the longest float and we wanted to get the most from it.
You can save money by going to Walmart or another store to buy a tube, but we decided to fork over $18 each to avoid having to blow it up or find a home for it when we were done. Tubes for your coolers are also available, along with life vests.
Free parking is no problem for Landa Falls. They have a large gravel parking lot across the street from the main entrance and it’s a short walk to the gate. Restrooms are available on the grounds in case you downed that 22 oz beer before leaving and need to pee before getting to the water. And yes, I’m speaking from experience. LOL
Floating the River
Once you park your arse in the tube, the rest is easy. The river current will take you away, and the only thing required beyond that point is enjoying the ride.
It’s important to state to our adult beverage enthusiasts that alcohol is allowed when floating the Comal River, but you must use an approved container. Since I’m a law-abiding citizen and never question authority, my choice was to use a properly insulated Thermos filled with the Nectar of the Gods. The downside is that you run out quickly when you’re thirsty.
The river itself is less intimidating than what I envisioned.
On our floating trip, the water was clear and clean, with the deepest part about neck-deep. The “rapids” sections we encountered were more like speed bumps, though still fun. At times, it felt like more of a journey through a large suburban creek than an expedition through the wilderness. But we did see a variety of wildlife, including fish, ducks, turtles, cranes, and a small herd of deer!
There were times we’d get caught up in a horde of fellow tubers or have to listen to loud, obnoxious music, but overall it was a very tranquil and peaceful experience.
Ending at South Union Avenue
After three hours or so, you’ll come to the last tubing exit and have to haul your gear up two flights of stairs and a short distance to the shuttle pickup points. From there, you can get a ride back to the main entrance before heading to your vehicle.
So was it worth it? Yes, it was.
We definitely had a fantastic time floating the Comal River and playing in the water. Whether you pay for the tubing experience or bring your own stuff and jump in at specific points, it’s a fun way to spend your day in the heat. Donetta and I highly recommend it.
