The Guadalupe River
The Guadalupe River was one of the earliest-explored rivers in Texas and was named for Our Lady of Guadalupe by Spanish explorer Alonzo de Leon in 1689. The Guadalupe River flows from Canyon Lake Dam 250 miles toward the coast and it supports some of the finest recreation spots in Central Texas. One of the most popular sections of the Guadalupe River is between the Canyon Lake Dam and Gruene and it is a paradise in the middle of the Texas Hill Country. Here are links to the Upper Guadalupe River Map and the Lower Guadalupe River Map.
This section of the Guadalupe is famous because of the exciting rapids, sparkling clear waters, scenic views, and good fishing. The river cuts through tall limestone bluffs and towering cypress trees. There are occasional rapids, but for the most part the river flows along lazily. Along the river you will find restaurants, bars with live music, plenty of outfitters, and a number of places to stay from tent camping to large houses to resorts with outstanding views of the river and the surrounding hills. The links below can help you find an outfitter and place to spend the night.
But the real reason most people visit the Guadalupe River is to enjoy the clear cool waters on a hot day with hundreds of their new found friends. Whitewater rafting, canoeing, and kayaking are very popular, but tubing seems to be the mode of choice. In fact millions of people rent tubes, rafts, kayaks, and canoes to float a 20 mile section of the river between the Canyon Lake Dam and New Braunfels every year. There are over two dozen outfitters along the river banks where you can rent tubes and canoes and buy concessions. Most outfitters offer a shuttle service to bring you back to your point of entry. Styrofoam and glass are prohibited on the river, and officers patrol the waters for safety. Help protect and preserve this beautiful area and river.
If you are not into tubing, then drive River Road. River Road is a 10.6-mile very scenic drive which crosses the Guadalupe River four times. Start the drive with breakfast at The Old Sattler Baking Company on FM 2673 in Sattler and end in New Braunfels. There is no stopping or parking allowed on the road but you will be treated with some beautiful country side and views of the river. Stop and enjoy some of the local establishments for food, drinks, or music - sit on their decks and watch the tubers float by.
To learn more about Gruene, the Guadalupe River, and what to see and do, read any of the following:
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Thank God For Weekends Articles - Gruene and San Marcos, Gruene, and New Braunfels
Guadalupe River From Canyon Lake to Gruene
Click on letters on the map and menu.
Guadalupe River Resources
Texas Outside Favorites |
Gruene Mansion Inn a fabulous and very unique B&B, Hideout On The Horseshoe for outstanding cabins, Camp Huaco Springs for RVs or Lazy L & L for tents and RVs, Gruene Hall for music and good times, Gruene River Inn for good food, and Rio Raft for tube rentals |
There are some new rules that you need to be aware of before you head out for the river, you should also check with your outfitter about the rules |
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Here is where you can rent a tube, kayak, and more |
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Check the flow to make sure you'll have a great river experience |
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Find a campground |
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Read our reviews of some of these great golf courses |
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Find a fun event |
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Give fly fishing a try |