River Overview
If the San Marcos, Comal, and Guadalupe are Austin's blockbuster tubing rivers, the Blanco River is the indie film. Fewer crowds, no commercial outfitters, no shuttles. Just a beautiful, spring-fed Hill Country river flowing through cypress groves and limestone bluffs near the artsy town of Wimberley.
The Blanco River originates from springs in the Hill Country and flows through Blanco and Hays counties before joining the San Marcos River. The section near Wimberley is the most popular for tubing. The water is typically 68-74°F, clear enough to see the bottom in most spots, and flows at a gentle pace through scenic limestone channels.
This is a DIY float. There are no outfitters, no tube rental stands, and no shuttles. You bring your own tube, arrange your own transportation between put-in and take-out, and manage your own logistics. That's the trade-off for a peaceful, uncrowded experience. If you want the convenience of outfitters and organized trips, stick with the big three rivers.
Float Route & Access
The most popular tubing section runs roughly 6.8 miles from FM 179 to FM 1492, following the Blanco River through the Wimberley valley. Float time is 3-4 hours at normal water levels, comparable to the San Marcos in length but significantly quieter.
Access points: Public access is limited compared to the outfitter-run rivers. The most common approach is to put in at a public road crossing (FM 179 bridge or FM 2325 bridge) and take out at another downstream crossing. Some local property owners offer paid access. Look for signs along River Road. The Wimberley Lions Club sometimes operates a put-in during summer.
Shuttle logistics: You'll need two cars (one at the put-in, one at the take-out) or a friend willing to shuttle you. There's no commercial shuttle service. Plan your logistics before you go. Don't forget your complete tubing packing list. You'll need to be self-sufficient on the Blanco.
Water level warning: The Blanco is more rain-dependent than the spring-fed San Marcos and Comal. In dry periods, the river can be too shallow to float. You'll spend more time dragging your tube over rocks than actually floating. After heavy rains, the Blanco can flood dangerously fast (flash flooding is a real risk in this valley). Check USGS gauges and local conditions before every trip.
Swimming Holes Near Wimberley
Even if the Blanco isn't floatable on your visit, Wimberley has some of the best swimming holes in Texas:
- •Blue Hole Regional Park. A stunning spring-fed swimming hole surrounded by towering cypress trees. The water is deep, clear, and cool. Reservations required. Book online well in advance. Open May-September. $9 for adults, $5 for kids. No alcohol, glass, or food in the water.
- •Jacob's Well Natural Area. One of the most photographed spots in Texas. A natural artesian spring that plunges 140 feet into an underwater cave system. Swimming is allowed from a designated platform (no diving into the well itself). Timed-entry permits required. The spring pumps out thousands of gallons per minute of crystal-clear water. Open May-September.
- •Wimberley Blue Hole (private). There's also a privately-operated Blue Hole along Cypress Creek, different from the regional park. Check locally for access and pricing.
For more options close to Austin, check out our guide to the best swimming holes near Austin.
Wimberley Town Guide
Wimberley is a small Hill Country town with an outsized arts and food scene. It's worth spending at least half a day exploring:
- •Wimberley Square. The town center with local shops, restaurants, and art galleries. Great for browsing after a float.
- •Wimberley Market Days. First Saturday of every month (March-December). Over 400 vendors selling handmade goods, local food, and art. One of the largest outdoor markets in Texas.
- •Wineries and breweries. Several tasting rooms within a short drive. Wimberley Valley Winery, Roughhouse Brewing, and more.
- •Dining. The Leaning Pear (upscale Texas fare), Wimberley Cafe (classic diner), and Jobell Cafe are local favorites.
Planning a full weekend? Combine a Blanco River float with a trip to Wimberley Square and a swimming hole visit. See our Austin weekend itineraries for more ideas.
Rules & Tips
- •Respect private property. Most of the riverbank is privately owned. Only access the river at public road crossings or designated access points. Don't trespass.
- •Pack it in, pack it out. No trash cans on the river. Bring a bag for all your trash.
- •No glass. Standard rule across all Texas rivers.
- •Wear water shoes. The Blanco bottom is rocky limestone. Flip-flops won't cut it.
- •Life jackets for kids. Texas law requires PFDs for children under 13.
- •Check water levels. Flash flooding risk is real. If rain is in the forecast, don't go.
For comprehensive rules across all rivers, read our river rules and regulations guide.
Getting There
From Austin: Take TX-45 South to RR 12 through Dripping Springs to Wimberley. Total drive time is approximately 50 minutes. The route is scenic. You'll pass through rolling Hill Country terrain, and RR 12 is one of the prettiest drives near Austin.
Parking: Limited. At public access points, you'll park along the road shoulder. Blue Hole Regional Park and Jacob's Well both have dedicated parking lots (included with your reservation). Arrive early on summer weekends.