Swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving in the crystal clear San Marcos River are very popular recreational activities in San Marcos. Tubing, canoeing, and kayaking are also great ways to enjoy the river, and there are several beautiful campgrounds downstream of San Marcos.

Aquarena Center in San Marcos is a great place to stroll the grounds, ride the glass bottom boats, see aquarium and exhibits about the San Marcos Springs and River and endangered species. Free admission, small fee for boat ride. See the newly remodeled historic hotel which is now the Texas Rivers Center. Visit their webpage.

The Texas Water Safari is a marathon canoe race from San Marcos to the Gulf of Mexico in June each year. It is another one of the many reasons that people visit the San Marcos River.

For information about diving in the San Marcos river and other areas, visit the Dive Shop.

Austin Canoe and Kayak has a new San Marcos location, across IH 35 from the Outlet Malls. They do sales and rentals of boats. Visit their website.

For information about tubing in the area
see the Lions Club Tube Rental in San Marcos.

Canoers can visit TG Canoe Livery for information about renting canoes or finding a guide, shuttle service, or instruction, or even canoe and kayak purchases.








Kayak instruction is available at the Power Olympic Center in San Marcos.

San Marcos River Retreat is an alcohol-free campground located near TG Canoe Livery, 2 miles downstream from San Marcos. Reservations a must. This website has good general info about canoeing the river as well.

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The separate Pecan RV Park is also nearby.

Spencer Canoes/Shady Grove Campground is in quiet Martindale. They also rent canoes and do instruction.

Leisure Camp is an RV camp and has a variety of activities and is in Fentress.

The Blind Salamander Riverfront RV Park is located on the San Marcos River at Westerfield Crossing, Old Bastrop Road.

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To continue downstream, see these parks and campgrounds:
www.riverbendrvpark.com
www.tpwd.state.tx.us/spdest/findadest/parks/palmetto

Endangered Species in the Edwards Aquifer and Springs System Aquifer: Texas Blind Salamander San Marcos Springs and River: Fountain Darter San Marcos Gambusia San Marcos Salamander Texas Wild Rice Information on these endangered species and other species in the Edwards Aquifer System (which includes other springs besides the San Marcos Springs and River) is prepared by The Edwards Aquifer Research and Data Center at Texas State University. View their website tosee more color photos and more detailed information about each species.