San Marcos River
Crystal-clear and spring-fed from San Marcos Springs, the most consistent float water in Central Texas, right through town.
Today’s read
Flow history & what's normal
All gauges on the San Marcos
About the San Marcos
The San Marcos rises from San Marcos Springs at Spring Lake and runs clear and cool through the city of San Marcos. Spring flow keeps the water temperature near 72°F all year and the level famously stable through the summer, a family favorite.
The in-town run passes City Park and the Rio Vista dam chutes, the river's signature feature. Below town the river winds toward Martindale and Luling, popular with paddlers more than tubers.
The upper river is habitat for endangered species found nowhere else (including Texas wild rice), so treat it gently, pack out everything.
Float stretches we track
Safety on the San Marcos
- ⚠ The Rio Vista chutes are the spot most swimmers underestimate, scout them first and follow posted guidance.
- ⚠ There's no statutory cfs closure on the San Marcos, check current City of San Marcos rules before you go.
Season by season
- •Year-round: the springs hold the river remarkably steady; it's the most reliable float in the region.
- •Summer: stable and busy, the in-town run is the draw.
- •After heavy rain: the river comes up fast below town; give it a day or two.
Outfitters on the San Marcos River
Along the river
San Marcos · Martindale · Luling