Every river near Austin has its own set of rules, and they change frequently. What's allowed on the Guadalupe might get you fined on the Comal. This guide covers the current regulations for all three major tubing rivers so you can pack right and avoid fines.
Rules at a Glance: All Three Rivers
This table summarizes the key rules for each river. Scroll right on mobile to see all columns. For detailed explanations, read the river-specific sections below.
| Rule | San Marcos | Comal | Guadalupe |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cans allowed? | No in city limits; yes in Martindale | No disposable containers in city sections | Yes |
| Glass allowed? | No | No | No |
| Styrofoam allowed? | No | No | No |
| Alcohol? | Yes (reusable containers) | Yes (reusable containers in city) | Yes |
| Age minimum | None (life jackets under 13) | 5 years old | None (life jackets under 13) |
| Life jackets required? | Under 13 (TX law) | Under 13 (TX law) | Under 13 (TX law) |
| Music/noise restrictions? | Not audible past 50 ft | Noise ordinances in city | No formal restrictions |
| Tying tubes together? | Restricted in some sections | Allowed | Allowed |
| Cooler size limit? | Check outfitter policy | 30-quart max in some sections | No formal limit |
| Littering fine | Up to $500 | Up to $500 | Up to $500 |
| Park hours | Dawn to dusk | Dawn to dusk (Prince Solms) | Varies by park |
San Marcos River Rules
The San Marcos River has two distinct sections with different rules: the downtown section (City of San Marcos) and the Martindale section (outside city limits). For the latest ordinances, visit the City of San Marcos river ordinances page.
Downtown San Marcos (City of San Marcos)
- No disposable containers. Cans are banned. Bring reusable water bottles or YETI-style tumblers.
- No alcohol. Strictly enforced.
- No styrofoam coolers.
- Limited parking. Park at designated lots and walk to the river.
- Fines up to $500 for violations.
Martindale Section (Outside City Limits)
- Cans allowed.
- Alcohol allowed.
- No glass or styrofoam.
- Pack it in, pack it out. No trash service.
- Respect private property. Most of the riverbank is private.
Comal River Rules
The Comal River flows through the city of New Braunfels, and city ordinances apply. See the official City of New Braunfels river recreation rules for the latest updates.
- No disposable containers in the city's designated "river zone." Cans are OK outside the river zone.
- No glass or styrofoam.
- 30-quart cooler limit in some sections. Check local signage.
- 5-year-old age minimum for most outfitters.
- Noise ordinances enforced. Keep music at a reasonable level.
- Prince Solms Park hours: Dawn to dusk.
Guadalupe River Rules
The Guadalupe River has the fewest restrictions of the three major rivers. The river is managed by the Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority.
- Cans allowed.
- Alcohol allowed.
- No glass or styrofoam.
- Life jackets required for children under 13 (Texas law).
- Pack it in, pack it out.
- Respect private property. Most of the riverbank is privately owned.
Tips for Compliance
- Check local signage. Rules change. Always verify at the river put-in.
- When in doubt, leave it out. If you're unsure if something is allowed, don't bring it.
- Bring a trash bag. And use it.
- Be respectful. River authorities and other tubers appreciate it.