Can you still float the Guadalupe River right now?

Current Guadalupe River Status: The River is Open!



As of March 1, 2026, whether you can float the Guadalupe River in Texas depends heavily on the specific "flow rate" released from the Canyon Lake Dam. March is the beginning of the spring season, and while many outfitters in New Braunfels and Gruene are preparing to open for the 2026 rush, water levels can be unpredictable. For a "leisurely" float, a flow rate between 100 and 400 CFS (Cubic Feet per Second) is ideal. If the rate is below 50 CFS, you may find yourself walking over rocks in "drag zones," while rates above 1,000 CFS are often restricted to experienced kayakers or closed to tubing entirely for safety. In early 2026, parts of Central Texas have seen moderate rainfall, so it is vital to check the Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority (GBRA) real-time data or call local rental shops like Rockin' R or Whitewater Sports before heading out. Additionally, remember that "the Can Ban" remains in effect within the New Braunfels city limits, prohibiting disposable containers on the river to preserve the waterway's natural beauty.

People Also Ask

River flow above 1,200cfs means there's more than 1,200 cubic feet of water rushing through any given point in the river every second. Therefore, it's too dangerous to float.

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It was determined that the Guadalupe River does not have sufficient capacity to carry the 100-year flows it was originally designed for. The stretch of creek without sufficient capacity is between Tasman Drive and Interstate 880.

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The outflow that empties the lake into the Guadalupe River is at the very deepest point, so this supply of winter-stored water continues to chill the river, even in the middle of summer, with water temperatures that are close to those in February.

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Texas, the second-largest U.S. State has a ton of snake species — at last count the total was around 80. So, wherever you go within the Lonestar State, there's a good chance you'll find several snakes — the Guadalupe River is no exception. Beginning in Kerr County, Texas, the Guadalupe River's course flows 230 miles.

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GUADALUPE RIVER TUBING COSTS & FEES Expect to spend $15-22 per person, including shuttle, tube rental, and fees. Most outfitters require a driver's license or credit card to hold as a rental deposit.

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