Quick answer
Pick the Comal in New Braunfels for kid-friendly tubing. Short float, calm water, baby tubes, walk-around at the chute, and Schlitterbahn next door. See the broader family float guide.
Best Rivers for Kids
- Comal: Best overall. 2-3 hour float, calm water, tube chute, and baby tubes for sale.
- San Marcos: Good for older kids (8+). Crystal-clear water, a few small drops at Rio Vista.
- Guadalupe: Skip with young kids. Cold water, longer float, occasional rapids.
- Blanco: Great for DIY family days; calm pools and easy access points.
Tubing by Age
- Under 3: Skip a real float. Try wading at Rio Vista Park or Schlitterbahn instead.
- 3-5: Baby tube tethered to a parent, calm sections of the Comal only, USCG-approved PFD required.
- 6-8: Their own tube tethered to an adult, PFD mandatory, walk-around at the chute.
- 9-12: Independent on the Comal or San Marcos with adult line of sight.
- 13+: Full float, treat like adult.
Kid Safety Essentials
PFD properly sized to weight. Tether rope between adult and child tube. Sun cover (rashguard, hat with strap, reef-safe SPF 50+). Frequent shade and water breaks. End the float earlier than you would for adults; kids overheat fast.
Read the full river safety guide before your first family trip.
What to Pack for Kids
PFDs, snacks in waterproof bag, sunscreen reapply every 90 minutes, a stuffed animal for the bus ride home (it works), dry change of clothes, and a small first-aid kit. Use the printable packing list.
Outfitter Tips for Families
Call ahead and ask about baby tube availability and family lockers. Some New Braunfels outfitters offer family pavilions for an extra $20-$40. Avoid Saturdays in July; weekday floats with kids are dramatically easier. See the New Braunfels outfitter directory.