Austin's tubing season runs from March through September, but the experience varies dramatically depending on when you go. The spring-fed San Marcos and Comal rivers stay a constant 72°F year-round, so it's really about air temperature, crowds, and pricing. This guide breaks it down month by month so you can pick the perfect window for your group.
Season Overview
| Month | Air Temp | Crowds | Pricing | Key Events |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| March | 60–78°F | 1/5 | Low | Spring Break (varies) |
| April | 65–82°F | 2/5 | Low | Easter weekend |
| May | 72–90°F | 3/5 | Medium | Memorial Day weekend (peak) |
| June | 80–97°F | 4/5 | High | None major (school's out) |
| July | 85–102°F | 5/5 | High | 4th of July (busiest day of the year) |
| August | 85–105°F | 4/5 | Medium–High | None major |
| September | 78–95°F | 2/5 | Low–Medium | Labor Day weekend |
March
Air Temp
60–78°F
Water Temp
68–72°F
Crowd Level
Pricing
Low
Holidays/Events
Spring Break (varies)
Conditions
Mild weather, water can be chilly. Some outfitters not yet open — call ahead.
Our take: Early bird season. Great pricing, zero crowds, but shorter days and cooler temps. Perfect for locals who don't mind the chill.
April
Air Temp
65–82°F
Water Temp
70–72°F
Crowd Level
Pricing
Low
Holidays/Events
Easter weekend
Conditions
Warming up. Wildflower season in Hill Country. Occasional spring rain.
Our take: The sweet spot for budget floaters. Weather's warming, bluebonnets are blooming, and you'll practically have the river to yourself on weekdays.
May
Air Temp
72–90°F
Water Temp
72°F
Crowd Level
Pricing
Medium
Holidays/Events
Memorial Day weekend (peak)
Conditions
Warm and reliable. Memorial Day weekend is the unofficial season opener — expect major crowds.
Our take: May weekdays are golden — warm enough to enjoy, uncrowded, and mid-range pricing. Memorial Day weekend kicks off full summer madness.
June
Air Temp
80–97°F
Water Temp
72°F
Crowd Level
Pricing
High
Holidays/Events
None major (school's out)
Conditions
Hot and sunny. Peak weather for floating. Rivers running at ideal levels.
Our take: Peak tubing weather. School's out, temps are perfect, and every weekend is packed. Book in advance. Weekdays are your best bet for a mellower float.
July
Air Temp
85–102°F
Water Temp
72°F
Crowd Level
Pricing
High
Holidays/Events
4th of July (busiest day of the year)
Conditions
Scorching hot. The river is your only relief. Bring extra water and sunscreen.
Our take: Maximum crowds, maximum heat, maximum fun — if you can handle it. 4th of July weekend is the single busiest tubing weekend in Texas. Book weeks in advance or skip it entirely.
August
Air Temp
85–105°F
Water Temp
72–74°F
Crowd Level
Pricing
Medium–High
Holidays/Events
None major
Conditions
Hottest month. Some rivers may run low in drought years. Afternoon thunderstorms possible.
Our take: Still hot, but crowds start thinning as school approaches. Late August is underrated — full summer heat with fewer people. Watch for low water levels.
September
Air Temp
78–95°F
Water Temp
72°F
Crowd Level
Pricing
Low–Medium
Holidays/Events
Labor Day weekend
Conditions
Cooling slightly. Kids back in school. Many outfitters shift to weekend-only schedules.
Our take: The locals' favorite month. Kids are back in school, crowds vanish, prices drop, and it's still plenty hot. Labor Day weekend is the last hurrah.
Our Recommendations
Cheapest months
March & April — lowest prices, fewest people
Best weather
May & June — warm but not brutal, ideal river conditions
Most popular
June & July — peak season, every weekend is a party
Best for families
September — kids back in school, empty rivers, still hot
Avoid if you hate crowds
July 4th weekend, Memorial Day, and Labor Day weekends
No matter when you go, check the current weather and river conditions before booking. Pack smart using our complete packing list, and review the river rules for your chosen river.