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San Marcos River. 402 reviews. #1 of 40 things to do in San Marcos. Bodies of Water. Write a review. About. A closed water supply from a natural spring at one end creates a unique environment for plants and animals found only on this river also popular with swimmers, snorkelers and for inner tubing. Suggest edits to improve what we show.
- (402)
- Attraction
- San Marcos, 78648, Texas
- Overview
- Recreation and Access
- Featured Runs
- Natural Features
- Conservation and Threats
- Historical and Cultural Significance
- Fishing
- Additional Resources
The San Marcos River begins at the bottom of historic Spring Lake on the campus of Texas State University and Meadows Center for Water & the Environment. Average flow at the headwaters (once known as the Aquarena Springs or Spring Lake) is 130 cubic feet per second and flows at a constant temperature of 72oF. Issuing forth from the Edwards Aquifer,...
The San Marcos River is a favorite place for Texans to paddle because it is fun to paddle for all experience levels, year around. Often, when Hill Country rivers are too low to paddle, the San Marcos provides good flows for paddling.There are numerous access points for put-ins and take-outs, making San Marcos River trips more accessible than many o...
Descriptions and Paddling Trails
1. Rio Vista Falls to Spring Lake Dam and Return[1.2 miles, 1 hour round trip] 2. City Park to Westerfield Crossing – Scout Camp[4.8-6.0 miles, 3-6 hours] 3. Video: San Marcos River Retreat to Scull’s Crossing[3 miles, 2 hours, 163 cfs] 4. Video: San Marcos River Retreat to Shady Grove Campground[6 miles, 3 hours] 5. Luling Zedler Mill Paddling Trail[6.1 miles, 3 hours]
Launch Site Maps
San Marcos River Retreat (Scout Camp) to Staples[11 miles, 6 hours] San Marcos River Retreat (Scout Camp) to Sculls Crossing[3 miles, 2 hours] Sculls Crossing to Shady Grove Campground / Spencer’s[1.8 miles] Shady Grove Campground to Staples[5 miles, 3 hours]
Tube Trips
1. City Park to Rio Vista Dam [1 mile, 1 hour] 2. County Rd. 101 to San Marcos River Retreat [1 mile, 1 hour] 3. Leave No Trace
The water quality in the San Marcos River is generally very good, running clean and clear most of the time, but becoming more turbid as you move downstream. It can become muddy after recent local rainfall, and may become cluttered with debris when flooding. The San Marcos River has a tree canopy rich in riparian, aquatic and avian life. Bald cypres...
The San Marcos sadly has become host to many invasive species, both flora and fauna. The Invasive Suckermouth Armored Catfish (SAC) Hypostomus plecostomus is one that seems to have come right out o...Among the Endangered or threatened species found in the Upper San Marcos, the Texas Blind Salamander and Texas Wild riceare but two of eight that are known.San Marcos River Foundation SMRF was established in 1985 to protect public access and preserve the San Marcos River, focusing on protecting the flow from aquifer-fed springs, improving the water qu...The springs were dammed 150 years ago, creating an underwater archeological preserve. Known as the “”River of the Innocents”” to the Spanish monks who were among the first Anglos to spy her, the San Marcos is one of the largest spring-fed rivers in Texas.
With constant flows and temperatures, the San Marcos rivals any bass fishery in the Hill Country. You will find Guadalupe, Smallmouth, Largemouth Bass, a large variety of Sunfishes and Rio Grande Cichlid. The San Marcos is home to several state records for Longear, Redbreasted Sunfishes and Guadalupe Bass. Don’t be too surprised if you catch an exo...
Known for its beauty, visitors from all over the world come to the river to tube, kayak, swim, fish, and snorkel in the crystal-clear waters, which are also home to a number of endangered species unique to the San Marcos River and Edwards Aquifer.
Apr 22, 2024 · Apr 22 2024. The San Marcos River, a jewel of Central Texas, beckons adventurers with its crystal-clear waters, vibrant ecosystem, and year-round spring-fed coolness. Whether you crave a peaceful paddle, a thrilling adventure, or a relaxing float, the San Marcos River offers something for everyone.
Nestled in the heart of Central Texas, the San Marcos River is a natural gem that originates from Spring Lake and flows with remarkable beauty and charm, offering a pristine oasis for nature lovers and water enthusiasts alike. The river is renowned for its vibrant aquatic life, abundant vegetation, and unique geological features.
River tubing the San Marcos is extremely popular. Its also one of the best ways to enjoy water that stay a cool 72 degrees year-round. Those looking for a challenge might be interested in the Texas Water Safari.
People also ask
What is the San Marcos River?
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4.98 (125) San Marcos River House. The San Marcos River house is situated on a quiet channel of the San Marcos River. It is less than a mile from downtown San Marcos and Texas State University and a 12 minute drive to San Marcos's Premium Outlet Malls.
