In 2026, while the San Marcos River itself is a public natural resource, the city-managed riverfront parks that provide the primary access points have strictly enforced operating hours, typically from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM. Floating at night is generally discouraged due to significant safety hazards, including submerged logs, strong currents at the Rio Vista falls, and limited visibility for emergency responders. Additionally, the city has implemented a "Single-Use Beverage Container Ban" in 2024–2026, which is heavily patrolled during peak hours; at night, enforcement officers are particularly vigilant about illegal camping and public consumption of alcohol. While there is no specific law forbidding being in the water at midnight, once the parks close at 11:00 PM, you cannot legally be on the banks or in the park areas to exit the river without risking a trespassing citation. For those seeking a nocturnal experience, specialized "Glow Tours" via kayak or paddleboard are sometimes offered by licensed vendors, providing a safe, lighted, and legal alternative.