San Marcos River Float | Don’s Fish Camp in Martindale, Texas

San Marcos River Float at Don’s Fish Camp

Looking for the best San Marcos river float in Texas? Don’s Fish Camp in Martindale, Texas offers a classic river day with easy access, float passes, free parking, shuttle service, and everything you need for a fun day on the water. Whether you’re planning a laid-back tubing trip or bringing a big group, we make it easy to enjoy a true Texas river float near San Marcos, Austin, and San Antonio.

Why Float With Don’s Fish Camp?

Don’s Fish Camp is a favorite destination for people looking to enjoy the San Marcos River the right way. We make the day simple with float passes, on-site parking, a shuttle to the drop-off point, and a float route that brings you back down to Don’s when you’re done.

Whether you’re coming for a casual weekend float, a birthday trip, a bachelor or bachelorette weekend, or a full river day with friends, Don’s Fish Camp makes it easy to relax and enjoy one of the best river floats in Central Texas.

How the Float Works

When you arrive at Don’s Fish Camp, you can park for free, check in, and get ready for the river. You’ll ride the shuttle to the drop-off point, then float the San Marcos River back down to Don’s Fish Camp, so you do not need a second shuttle after your trip.

Most floats take about 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on river conditions and water levels. That makes this a great option for a half-day river trip, whether you’re floating for the first time or coming back for another run.

Float Passes, Rentals, and Add-Ons

You can buy your float wristband online before your trip or when you arrive at Don’s Fish Camp. If you want to save time, buying in advance is a great option, but it is not required.

Cooler rentals are available, cooler tubes are available at the drop-off site, and ice, snacks, and other river-day essentials are available on-site. If you bring your own tube, that’s fine too, as long as it floats safely on the river.

What to Bring

For the best San Marcos river float, bring a waterproof bag or container for anything you want to keep dry. Water-friendly shoes, sunscreen, cheap sunglasses, drinks, snacks, and a good attitude all help make for a better day on the river.

If you forget something, Don’s Fish Camp offers useful items like coolers, ice, dry sacks, and waterproof phone cases. Air compressors are also available at the drop-off site if you bring your own tube, but guests should not inflate personal tubes before riding the shuttle.

River Rules and Safety

Please help keep the San Marcos River clean and safe for everyone. Glass and styrofoam are not allowed on the river, and guests should throw away all trash after exiting the water.

There is no can ban on this part of the river, and guests 21 and older may bring alcohol or beer with a valid government ID. Please respect private property, follow river safety guidelines, and do your part to keep Texas beautiful while you float.

Kids, Dogs, and Group Floats

Kids of all ages are welcome at Don’s Fish Camp. Children 6 and under float free, and children 7 and under must wear a life jacket provided by a parent or guardian, with life jackets strongly recommended for kids up to age 14, especially weaker swimmers.

Friendly dogs are welcome too, as long as they stay leashed and owners clean up after them. If you’re planning a bigger river day, Don’s Fish Camp is also a great fit for group floats, family reunions, birthday trips, college groups, and bachelor or bachelorette outings.

Shuttles and Repeat Floats

Don’s Fish Camp offers on-site shuttle service for regular float trips, and private shuttle bookings are also available for groups coming from places like Austin or San Antonio. Private shuttles are especially popular for parties, student groups, family events, and weekend celebrations.

If one float is not enough, you can float more than once. After your first trip, guests can pay an additional fee for another float and spend even more time enjoying the San Marcos River.

Frequently Asked Float Questions

How long is the float? The float usually takes about 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on water levels and river conditions.

Do I have to buy my float pass online? No. You can buy your float wristband online or when you arrive at Don’s Fish Camp.

Do I need to rent a shuttle to float at Don’s? No. Parking is free, and the regular shuttle to the drop-off point is included with your float purchase.

Can I bring my own tube? Yes. You can bring your own tube as long as it floats safely on the river.

Can I bring alcohol or beer? Yes, if you are 21 or older and have a valid government ID. Glass and styrofoam are not allowed.

Can kids float the river? Yes. Kids of all ages are welcome, children 6 and under float free, and children 7 and under must wear a life jacket provided by a parent or guardian.

Are dogs allowed? Yes. Friendly dogs are welcome, and dog life vests are strongly recommended for safety.

Can we float more than once? Yes. After your first float, you can pay $12 for an additional float and go again the same day.