At a Glance
Horseshoe Loop
Best beginner float
65-70°F
Typical summer temp
Dam releases
Main planning check
Tube + kayak days
Best for
The Guadalupe River is the beating heart of Hill Country summer. From the dam release at Canyon Lake down through New Braunfels, the river offers cold, clear water and gentle rapids perfect for tubing, kayaking, and swimming.
If you are comparing river days across the region, the Comal River tubing guide, Frio River float guide, and best swimming holes in the Texas Hill Country roundup help you stack the options side by side.
Best Sections for Floating
The Horseshoe Loop (Beginner)
The most popular stretch runs through New Braunfels, roughly from Hueco Springs to the Prince Solms Park takeout. About 3 hours of easy floating with a few fun rapids. Multiple tube rental outfitters line this section.
Above Canyon Lake (Intermediate)
The upper Guadalupe above Canyon Lake offers more solitude and better scenery. Kayaking is better here than tubing — the river is narrower with more technical sections. Put in at the TX-39 bridge and take out at North Park.
Below the Dam (Advanced)
Dam releases create Class II–III rapids that attract kayakers and canoeists looking for a challenge. Check the dam release schedule before going — water levels can change dramatically.
Tubing Tips
- Season: Memorial Day through Labor Day. Peak is June–August.
- Water temperature: The Guadalupe runs surprisingly cold (65–70°F) thanks to spring-fed tributaries. You’ll appreciate this at 2pm in August.
- What to bring: Sunscreen (reef-safe if possible), water shoes, a cooler tube or dry bag for drinks, and a hat with a strap.
- What NOT to bring: Glass containers (banned on the river), valuables, or anything you can’t afford to lose.
For packing, use our guide to best river tubes, dry bags, and water shoes for Texas float trips.
Outfitter Recommendations
Most outfitters in New Braunfels offer similar packages: tube rental, shuttle to put-in point, and takeout at their location. Prices range from $20–35 per person. Expect to spend 2–4 hours on the water depending on the section.
Book ahead on weekends — the popular outfitters fill up, especially in June and July.
If you want to turn a float day into a weekend, our Perfect weekend in New Braunfels shows how to build the rest of the trip around it.
