The Guadalupe and Comal Rivers prepare for 2025 water recreation season

News provided by

New Braunfels Convention & Visitors Bureau

Mar 13, 2025, 15:33 ET

NEW BRAUNFELS, Texas, March 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- New Braunfels and the surrounding area have long been a source of water recreation. Even though rain has been scarce throughout much of the region, water continues to flow in both the Guadalupe and Comal Rivers.

Fifteen major rivers and 3,700 named streams cross 191,000 miles of Texas land; all of which derive water from different sources. The Guadalupe River stretches over 230 miles and is divided into the upper and lower Guadalupe. The water conditions on these two parts of the river can be very different.

The crystal clear Comal River flows through New Braunfels, Texas. A constant 72 degrees, the river traverses 2.5 miles before converging with the Guadalupe River, earning it the recognition of the shortest navigable river in Texas. A popular tubing destination, the Comal River provides boundless opportunities for water recreation including tubing, fishing, paddle boarding, kayaking, swimming and snorkeling.
The crystal clear Comal River flows through New Braunfels, Texas. A constant 72 degrees, the river traverses 2.5 miles before converging with the Guadalupe River, earning it the recognition of the shortest navigable river in Texas. A popular tubing destination, the Comal River provides boundless opportunities for water recreation including tubing, fishing, paddle boarding, kayaking, swimming and snorkeling.
Tubers enjoy a float down the refreshing Guadalupe River.
Tubers enjoy a float down the refreshing Guadalupe River.
The crystal clear Comal River flows through New Braunfels, Texas. A constant 72 degrees, the river traverses 2.5 miles before converging with the Guadalupe River, earning it the recognition of the shortest navigable river in Texas. A popular tubing destination, the Comal River provides boundless opportunities for water recreation including tubing, fishing, paddle boarding, kayaking, swimming and snorkeling.
Tubers enjoy a float down the refreshing Guadalupe River.

Canyon Lake gets its water from the upper Guadalupe River, which is filled by rainfall in Kerr County. The lower Guadalupe is fed from Canyon Lake and runs through New Braunfels. Because of this, the lower Guadalupe River is more stable and has not gone dry since Canyon Dam was completed in the 1960's.

"We are ready for you to come stay and play," said New Braunfels Convention in Visitors Bureau President Tanya Pence. "Our rivers and lakes are unique in their source and how they are managed, which continues to provide for the community and our visitors."

Due to the steady amount of water coming from Canyon Lake, popular water recreation areas along the Guadalupe River, like River Road and the Horseshoe, will have about the same amount of water as the last couple of summers. "The Guadalupe River is known for tubing and this year is no different. Family-friendly flows allow for a relaxing time on the river. We are ready to welcome you with riverfront lodging, camping, fishing, and river outfitter locations," stated Mike Dussere, General Manager of the Water Oriented Recreation District (WORD).

The City of New Braunfels and Comal County are investing in river safety as well. "New improvements at the last public exit on the Comal River will improve visitor safety and overall accessibility," said Amy Niles, River and Watershed Manager for the City of New Braunfels. Below Canyon Dam, key tubing locations are receiving upgrades on infrastructure, including the Horseshoe on FM 306 that will enhance accessibility.

Some rivers may be flowing slower than in years past, but there is still plenty of water for enjoyment. "New Braunfels rivers are accessible through our city parks and tube rental businesses and there are hundreds of riverfront properties where you can stay. Kayaking, paddleboarding, tubing, snorkeling, swimming, and just relaxing make New Braunfels the perfect getaway," said Pence.

New Braunfels
Deep in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, located between San Antonio and Austin, rests beautiful New Braunfels, Texas. Founded in 1845 by German settlers, New Braunfels is overflowing with old world heritage and small-town Texas charm.

Enjoy adventures on the beautiful Comal and Guadalupe Rivers, Schlitterbahn Waterpark and Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch & Natural Bridge Caverns. Stroll through local art galleries and indulge in culinary delights. New Braunfels is home to Texas' oldest bakery Naegelin's, Texas oldest dance hall Gruene Hall, and Wurstfest, an annual German heritage celebration.

Canyon Lake and the Guadalupe River 
This beautiful area just upstream of New Braunfels is a recreation hotspot, with hiking, birdwatching, camping, fishing, lodging, tubing, kayaking, paddleboards, fantastic scenery, and more.

SOURCE New Braunfels Convention & Visitors Bureau