Quick answer
Rio Vista Park sits on the San Marcos River downtown, with three engineered falls that tubers and kayakers ride through. Free parking, free access, and the highlight of any San Marcos float.
What Is Rio Vista Park?
A 4-acre downtown San Marcos park along the east bank of the river. Picnic tables, grass, a sandy beach, restrooms, and direct access to the most photographed stretch of the river.
The Rio Vista Falls
Three engineered concrete drops, each 2-3 feet, redesigned in 2006 to be safe for tubes, kayaks, and swimmers. They replaced an older low-head dam that was creating dangerous recirculation.
Locals call them "the chutes" or "Rio Vista Falls." Riding all three in a row is a 90-second highlight of the float.
Tubing Through Rio Vista
Most San Marcos outfitter floats pass through Rio Vista. To ride safely: hold your tube tight, point feet downstream, and ride center channel. Kids should always wear a life jacket through the falls.
Parking and Logistics
Free street parking on Cheatham Street and a small lot at the park. Fills by 11 a.m. on summer Saturdays. Paid lots are available downtown for $5-$10.
What Else to Do at the Park
Picnic, swim in the calm pools below the falls, or just watch tubers come down. Pair with a stop at nearby restaurants on The Square. The park is a 4-minute walk from Texas State University.