Planning a river tubing trip near Austin? This visual season calendar gives you everything you need at a glance: opening dates, crowd levels, temperatures, holiday weekends, and links to our detailed seasonal guides. Whether you're chasing empty rivers in April or maximum party vibes on the 4th of July, use this calendar to pick the perfect weekend.
For a deep dive into each month's conditions, pricing, and river-specific details, check out our comprehensive Best Time to Go Tubing guide.
Full Season Calendar
March
ShoulderSeason opens. Low crowds outside spring break week. Cool mornings warm to perfect afternoons.
Spring Break Guide →April
ShoulderBest value pricing of the entire season. Great weather, almost no crowds. The insider's pick.
May
ModerateMemorial Day = unofficial season kickoff. Warming up fast. Moderate crowds on weekends.
Memorial Day Guide →June
PeakPeak season begins. Hot weather makes the 72°F river irresistible. Book weekends in advance.
July
Peak of PeakThe busiest month. July 4th weekend sells out weeks early. Maximum heat, maximum fun.
4th of July Guide →August
PeakStill peak. Hottest temps of the year. Good mid-week availability as college students return.
September
ModerateCrowds taper fast after Labor Day. Still warm. Many outfitters shift to weekend-only.
Labor Day Guide →October
ShoulderSome outfitters still run trips (Texas Tubes on the Comal). Water stays 72°F. Call ahead.
Nov-Feb
Off-SeasonRivers still flow but commercial tubing is closed. Explore Austin's other adventures instead.
Things to Do in Austin →How to Use This Calendar
Tubing season in Central Texas runs roughly March through September, with a few outfitters extending into October. Here's how to get the most value from this calendar:
- Book early for holidays. Memorial Day, 4th of July, and Labor Day weekends sell out 2-4 weeks in advance. If you're planning a holiday float, lock in your reservation as early as possible.
- Weekdays are cheaper and emptier. Every outfitter charges less for Tuesday-Thursday trips. You'll get lower prices, shorter lines, and more river to yourself.
- Shoulder season = best value. March, April, and early October offer the lowest prices, smallest crowds, and surprisingly good weather. The spring-fed rivers stay 72°F regardless of air temperature.
- Peak season = book weekends in advance. June through August weekends fill up, especially Saturdays. Reservations aren't always required, but they're strongly recommended.
Not sure what to pack? Our What to Bring Tubing guide covers every essential so you don't waste money at the outfitter's overpriced shop.
What About the Off-Season? (November-February)
The rivers don't disappear in winter. The San Marcos and Comal still flow at a constant 72°F year-round. But commercial tubing outfitters shut down from November through February because air temperatures drop to 45-70°F and demand evaporates. No shuttles, no tube rentals, no lifeguards.
If you're visiting Austin during the off-season, there's still plenty to do. Check out our Things to Do in Austin guide for live music, BBQ, nightlife, and outdoor adventures that run year-round. You can also explore Barton Creek Greenbelt for hiking and swimming holes, or hit Lake Travis for boating and waterfront dining.
Start planning your summer float now. The best weekends go fast. Compare the top rivers in our River Comparison guide to decide where to book.