This was a very relaxing experience. The water is mostly clean and calm though most of the river. The are about 4 to 5 small stretches of mild rapids (but nothing intense enough to flip one's tube, although you might get stuck on the rocks). The area has plenty of shade to survive the sun. There are also a couple areas to stop on flat land to take a break from floating. Beware, glass and Styrofoam is not allowed (but you can rent a cooler and tube for the cooler). They also sell ice for the cooler!

Thank you Page and Kyle for making my birthday even better - you both were so genuinely nice and made everything about getting on the river easy and pleasant despite the best efforts of my companions ;)
Thank you!!

Kenny and Brad are wonderful and so helpful they really know what there doing! Grateful I got to experience this and wonderful for first timers!

I have been coming here for over 10 years. My husband has been coming here for a little under 5. Don's has always been my spot to go when it comes to floating the river. I have never had an issue with the staff or transportation. I love the fact that they have tubes with bottoms for the younger floaters and for your cooler or pup. Last time we were here there was so e banging crawfish at the end of the float. That was a nice lil touch to end a graduation float. We will be back in July 6th for my birthday float. Can't wait!!!

These guys are awesome. I've been going here for years, and it's gotten more crowded every year, but they're managing it! They went from cash only to accepting credit cards, one line to like 4 car lines & two bus lines, better drop off points now (no longer near a barb wire fence like it used to be), and better tubes with cup holders & back rests. Well done, Don.

Great place, super friendly people. Very reasonable prices too! It was great to be able to air up our tubes there for free as well. My new go-to place for tubing!

We've floated w/ Don's for 5 years now and give it 5 stars. This is our first time camping with them so this review is solely for the camping part and I hope you find it helpful, as these where some of my questions I wasn't able to find answers to prior to our trip.

1) It's primitive camping site. There are restrooms (stalls no doors) at the top of the hill, they were clean and plenty of toilet paper. Showers were still being built as of 7/12/19.

2) I would say this isn't super family friendly but has potential.

3) Get their EARLY for a good spot. Gates open at 8am

4) spots down by the river were rocky, so bring an air mattress or sleep in your car. I slept in the tent one night and another in the car with doors open and it was comfortable.

5)if this is your first time, drive all the way down the dirt road until your reach the river bank (pass the red building) and just set yourself up where there is a free space.

6) we really enjoyed the camping floating deal of $32 a day per person.

7) there is only one wooden table & park like grill, so I recommend to bring your own canopy, grill & table, etc.

8)lots of trees to hang your hammock!

9) they provided plenty of fire wood for bon fires!

10) The landowners came down at night to check on all the campers to see how we were doing, if we needing anything and introduce themselves. They will also check for wristbands.
- we did have an unfortunate incident our first night with a neighboring camping group of young college kiddos, the next morning we talked to the landowners about the situation; they did a very good job of handling the situation and ended up moving this rowdy group to another part of the property and let us know if anything else happened they'd be removed at our discretion. Moving them locations solved the problem in this case. Everyone else around us was friendly & respectful

- the owner did mention, they are doing their best to weed out the overly rowdy disrespectful & disruptive crowd. They want their campers to feel comfortable. Feel free to get a contact number for them in case a need arises when they do their night rounds.

11) my only complaint is the lack of knowledge by the workers about the camping prices, spots & bathroom situation when I called to ask questions

Camping I'd rate it a 4 because of how rocky it is & the lack on knowledge by staff.

The best in Texas !!! Fun experience had an awesome time camping and floating on the river. It was clean and the air was fresh great time to meditate.

I always use Don's Fish Camp whenever I go Floating in San Marcos. They are professionals at their business and have a good long float. They walk to your car to take payment for services. There is a cheaper price if you bring your own floats. There is deep and shallow water and rapids, so Be careful. They even featured me on their IG for tagging them in a picture. So much fun!

Don's is absolutely the best float in San Marcos! Great staff, quality tubes, and an overall great experience. I would recommend this place over Texas State Tubes, which is right next door. BEST FLOAT EVER!!!

My group and I travelled from New York for a bachelorette and wanted to float the river. We had a great time, but there are a few things we wish we knew before. I'm sure local people know all of this, so this review is for people not as familiar. There is no where to put keys, phones, wallets, etc. so plan on everything you are bringing to get wet. The cooler tubes are regular tubes with the bottom tied on, so they are not secure. Make sure to buy rope at the red house. The river is mostly calm, but can be rocky and this caused several members of my group to flip when there was fast moving water and rocks. Aside from some bruises we had a blast. All of the things mentioned previously did not stop us from having a great day, but are things we wish we knew before. (However I do wish they had lockers). The water temperature was refreshing. It takes about three hours.

It was my first time going toobing and I was referred to Don's by a friend. The experience was awesome and my friends and I had a blast going down the river. The payment process was easy, the only down side was the parking situation. The parking was small and the uneven payment was rough getting through with my tiny car, but besides that highly recommend this place and will definitely be back! Great prices, great toobs, awesome experience.

Perfect place to go along the river. They have great discounts for students and such. All day transportation up to the starting point via bus and they have never been insanely busy when I've gone. Never had a problem with anything at Don's and would recommend.

Ive been to a few of these tubing rental places and so far this is my favorite one probably because they have a system to get you through to the next step and into the water quicker. When you arrive a person will let you know what lane to go in once you let him know what you're renting.

If you have a tube already, you pay $15. If you need one its $22. Cooler tube rental $10. Their tubes have the headrest on them which is nice resting your head on while chilaxing on the river. You will get a wristband for each thing your rent with different colors. Keep those because you will need to show this when you are getting your tubes. Once you park you car, walk up to where the buses are and a bus will drive you to the starting point of where the fun begins. It stops when you see the Don's fish camp sign.

*You will be on the river for at least 2 hours.

Super fun place to float the river on a Tuesday! Student/military wristbands are I think $15, $22 for regular. Cooler tubes are $10. The grounds are very clean and the water was perfect. There are some rapids you gotta watch out for... my group of 8 + 2 cooler tubes got separated a couple times lol! Only problem I had was a lady with some snarky attitude towards the middle. We had stopped a second a ways upstream from a group of kiddos so we could regroup our tubes and finish a couple drinks, so we weren't right in front of the kids. This lady told us we were in private property and had to keep moving, even though we stopped for maybe two minutes and there were clearly other people slowly passing through too who got nothing. Anyways, her aside it was a great time ;)

These guys have it down. Shuttles run constantly. During the early season ,and at the end of the season, wait times are short. When at their busiest, they are also at their best; straight from car to shuttle.I averaged one visit a week and always enjoyed the escape. Beautiful scenery!. Crowd is generally college age and well behaved with few exceptions. Staff always pleasant and welcoming. I love this place!

We had the best time at Don's fish camp. The shuttle came and picked up a group of us in New Braunfuls and took us straight to the river to float. The actual float was amazing and while it was crowded it wasn't to bad. The water was perfect, even though it was low we kept moving the entire time. At the end they helped us get all of our tubes out and we waited for the shuttle. The only complaint I would have is that we couldn't find our shuttle driver and he wasn't answering. David with Dons got us taken care of us though. Also.... they have chick fil a sandwiches at the end. Best. Drunk. Food. Ever.
Highly recommend!!!

Best Float Hands Down

It’s float experience was pretty fun. However, there could be more signs about directions when entering and parking and lining up for the shuttle. Don’t bother airing up your own tubes before entering the shuttle, they will ask you to deflate. Customer Service was great ?

Hah! What a ridiculously fun time. A friend of mine booked this trip for 7 of us for my bachelorette party. Don's fish camp was a delight to work with not to mention, organized and prepared. The real star of the show was our driver Lance. He was on time from beginning to end, he didn't scoff at our insane about of beer and was a good sport when our laughter could have cause a seismic event. Over all I would recommend this trip to anyone, if you can, ask for Lance!

Me and my bridesmaids from NYC spent the weekend in Austin, and Don's Fish Camp was the highlight of everyone's trip! We were picked up promptly in a private van by Dustin, who was super friendly and informative. We were allowed to leave anything that we did not want to get wet in the van. Tubing down the river was relaxing, the people we met floating down were also very friendly. I would definitely recommend tubing down this river if you are in town. Such a unique experience for someone out of town.

This was a wonderful experience. The float took about 3-4 hours. The shuttle and rocket experience was not only fast but also smooth. You get your tickets... load up and they shuttle you to the drop off where you pick up your toob (they dont charge for a cooler toob) and get in the water. The I decided to do the San Marco's river because the Guadalupe is so low from what I've heard. I was not dissatisfied what so ever. It was a beautiful river and we didnt have to walk at all. I plan to go back to these guys in a week to float again! It was 20.00 per person for parking and toob.

Tubing the San Marcos river couldn't be any easier or more fun. Don's Fish Camp makes it super easy to bring your tubes and get on the river quickly. Prices are $15 per person if you bring your own float or $22 to rent theirs. The price includes parking and transportation to your drop off point. Once you get to the drop off point they have several air pumps if you need to inflate your tubes from home. Best part is it's a long and beautiful float. Our driver told us people were finishing in 3 1/2 hours but it was a little more than 4 hours for us. Can't beat tubing on a hot Texas summer day!

We went to San Marcos for our first tubing experience. After talking with the locals Dons Fish Camp was the name we heard over and over again. It was great! Even though there were tons of people you never felt it. Floating down the river was super relaxing and the people were all so friendly! Words of advice: bring some string to tie you to your group, you can bring your own tube for $15 or rent one of theirs for $22. If you decide to bring your own you can blow it up there though you'll have to wait in line. Be sure to buy shoes for the water!

Just finished our second trip down the river. Don's is great! They are fast to pay and park and then pretty quick to get on the bus to take you to the drop off point. Don's also rent tubes to you if you didn't bring your own. I think it's around $20 per person to get tubes, park and the bus ride. They use old school buses to transport you and your tubes and your river stuff. The San Marcos river is beautiful! Tons of green trees, the water is clean and they do a pretty good job about keeping the trash out. The only issue is there's a lot of college kids. That brings drunk drama. It's a lot of fun though! The whole trip during the busy season will take a solid 5 hours. So bring enough snacks and drinks to last. No restrictions for cooler size or tube size that I know of. Just no glass, but that should be common sense. There's a few places along the river you can get out and hang out along the beach areas. It's a good idea to bring a water proof bag to hold your stuff and lots of sunscreen. You can also bring your dog! Then just sit back and relax.

We went to Dan Marcos for our first tubing experience. After talking with the locals Dons Fish Camp was the name we heard over and over again. It was great! Even though there were tons of people you never felt it. Floating down the river was super relaxing and the people were all so friendly! Words of advice: bring some string to tie you to your group, you can bring your own tube for $15 or rent one of theirs for $22. If you decide to bring your own you can blow it up there though you'll have to wait in line. Be sure to buy shoes for the water!

Great time

Great place.

Everybody minds their own business

We love our time at Dons. Only downfall is that I wish they would invest in building some nice restrooms. Those portable toilets get nasty when it’s packed.
Other than that, it’s an awesome place to sit back and relax.

Kyle was the greatest and is so friendly!! We love Don's!

Me and my wife love this place. Friendly people easy and convenient river access and exit. No big crows and crazy rapids. We only float Dons

This is where you come to float if you want the true San Marcos floating experience. Float, camp, BBQ all with friendly staff and a fun environment. There is a rope swing that goes right into the river and the shallow edges of the river are a great spot to just kick back with a beer and let your feet chill in the spring fed waters.

Thanks for the awesome float and camp!!! Love this place!!

Nicole at don's is the the best rep I've ever had the pleasure to encounter!!!

One of the best places to go floating. Their setup is streamlined and smooth and the employees are always friendly and helpful. If you're going floating in San Marcos, go here!

Spent a couple hours tubing down the San Marcos River. Easy to find, no frills establishment. A fun day was worth the 20 dollars. Make sure to bring your good friends and a fun outlook. Easy lazy ride, good for families, groups and kids.

I'm a Californian - [enter SNL skit here]. I've never gone on a float and I made fun of my best friend for going on floats all the time in Oklahoma when she was in college because there was nothing else to do but OMG I loved every bit of this experience.

LOCATION: We spent a good 3 hours on the river. Some people like to stop on random little islands to drink, pee or take a break.

SERVICE: A ton of students work here and they're surprisingly very organized. As soon as you get in, they divide the cars into three different lines, you have to fill out a waiver, pay and you're in the parking lot!

I would recommend this place to anyone! We loved it so much.

Don's Fish Camp was the best experience I have had on any river trip! Easy to find, register in the a/c of your vehicle and wait for the bus under shade!!! Grab a beer while you wait and enjoy conversations with new found friends. Grab the tubes at the river and enjoy the next 2-3 hours. End of the ride takes you right back to the start!!! (Our favorite part!) Don's IS the BEST float in TEXAS!!!

We came here a few weeks ago and nothing but a great experience. Love the fact I can park somewhere, bus to the drop off location and then float all the way back. We will definitely be back!

Best float- by far!

Plus the cheapest! :)

This float is easy breezy- very chill, about 3 hours

This place is pretty well orchestrated. It is clearly marked and easy to find. You go down the dirt path and people direct you into different lines to fill out your forms and pay. You can bring your own, but it's still $12. Rent the cooler tube, it's worth it.

After that, you go park, and get on the shuttle. They take you to the "top" of the river and you float down. It is VERY long. The entire route took 3-4 hours. There are some shallow spots where you may hit your booty, so be careful!

The water was pretty clean and there are no families. Note that they are prohibited, just most people are drinking, I guess. No glass or styrofoam though. Dogs were there.

At the end, there is a huge back up and everyone got stuck and started moving backwards. We had to push our way through to get out. That was the only downside. Other than that it was great.

THE TOP TEN REASONS YOU SHOULD GO TO DON'S FISH CAMP AND FLOAT DOWN THE RIVER
I've floated the river before in New Braunfels, but my first time to float down the San Marcos was so amazing and beautiful that I went back a week later to do it again. This is what I love about Don's:

1. It's closer to Austin than going to New Braunfels to float the Comal or Guadalupe.
2. The San Marcos river is more scenic and less developed than the others.
3. You are dropped off by bus at the beginning of your trip so that you end up where your car is parked. There's no waiting to ride a dirty bus filled with drunk people singing bad country songs.
4. The spot where you end up is a cool place to hang out, and if necessary- sober up!
5. I think you even pay less ($15) for the tube and bus ride than the other spots.
6. The river is more of an adventure...more variety on the float.
7. Did I mention it's closer?
8. You can get away with more. I never saw any police the times that I've gone.
9. Not as many people.
10. Meeting Don. Wow. Check out his tan and those suspenders.

Take this from a girl who was formerly anti-tubing, this tube ride is THE best! This part of the river is not nearly as narrow as the Comal and even more spacious it seems than other parts of the San Marcos River I've floated.

On a late Sunday afternoon, it was less busy than the drop off at the Lions Club and lots quieter. And it's definitely way prettier. We saw baby turtles, Cardinals, and all sorts of pretty birds on this tube ride.

About three hours and xx ounces of beer in, I was really grateful that the bus ride for this trip happened at the beginning of the float and not at the end - when I was slightly sun-burned and more than slightly buzzed.

On that note, pack some snacks for your cooler (in ziplocs or Tupperware) and sip a little water along the ride. 'Cause it's a long one! And if traffic was anything like it was on Sunday night, you'll be sorry if you don't.

Well worth my four hours and $10!

Floating down this river a few years ago was easily one of the greatest days of my life. Drinkin beers in the sun with my buddies floating down a cold river on a hot day. Met a bunch of locals, shotgunned beers with them, just an awesome day all around.

Longer better float take out is simple.

Easy to get to location.. BEAUTIFUL Float...usually crowded...may need to walk a good distance from your car....not much shade. Portapotties or outhouses...

Great fun, but make sure you don't go after a thunderstorm because the river will be moving so fast your trip downstream will be over quickly.

Been floating the river with them for a few years. Good service and pretty cheap.

Amazing place, the river is so serine,looking for a place to have family fun or to just think and take a walk about by yourself then this is the place for you... its nature at its best

Was a slow day at the camp, late in the season,chance of rain, and not a holiday. Was perfect, no crowds, no hassle, no wait.
Staff members where not unfriendly, just to the point, no advice given or instructions.
Bus was dirty, trash and huge spider in a web. Several beer cans and big pieces of trash. Bouncy rough ride to drop off point, where it's just that, dropped and on your own.
Plenty of tubes, the river was awesome, the river and experience was worth the fee.
We are down to earth, low maintenance and self sufficient so dealing with bouncy and dirty wasn't the worst. Just surprised that no pride in the business.
We will use Dons again the price was fair and having a place to park on the river is worth it.

Definitely a party down this River if your looking for relaxation not the place to do it

A group of 14 of us had Don's Fish Camp pick us up from our AirBnb in Austin and drive us to and from the river in San Marcos. They dropped us off right where the tubes are and were waiting for us at the end when we finished floating the river. The river was full and flowing quickly. We got lucky with the weather and were able to do the float in about 3 hours.

The driver, Kenny, was great and very accommodating. Zach helped me book the bus and was great with refunds (a few could not make it last minute) and was happy to answer any questions that I had.

I definitely recommend Don's Fish Camp for anyone who is looking for a big group float (not to mention, prices were great)!!

We've been going to Don's for a few years now and it's always a good time! They even let us bring our kayak and just charged us for the ride! The float is not as crazy as the Guadalupe can get and not as crowded as the Comal. Plus, being from Austin, it makes for a nice day trip. Keep up the good work, guys!

Great float. I live in Austin so its a easy drive. Good mature crowd with minimal childeren. Way to go Don.

Excellent experience! This was my first time at Dons, and everything was perfect, the staff was nice, the tubes were colored instead of the black rubber ones that burn you when they've been sitting in the sun all day, and the bus dropping you off at your start point, so you could end up at your car is a way better option than the bus picking you up at the end of the day. All the details were easy and the day was a BLAST! Thanks Dons Fish Camp!

So it was my first time going here since I'm always used to floating the Comal instead. My friends and I drove up as they gave us a clipboard to fill out, basically stating the rules and asking for our signatures. It is $5 per person, tubes are $19, if you want a tube for the cooler, it will be $10. As for parking, it is kind of a hassle since it is a dirt road. It's easy to find a spot but be careful since you will be going downhill. Leave all valuable possessions in your car, it's not worth losing them. My friends and I unpacked, got onto the bus that waited for us, and went our way. The bus drove us to the actual starting point which is about 10-15 minutes away depending on the traffic. We got off the bus only to see a ginormous mountain of tubes piled on top of one another, some with cup holders and some with a head rest. They do NOT sell rope if you're looking to float as a group! We had to untie a few ropes from other tubes to tie our tubes together. Water is extremely cold but it is perfect for the Texas heat! We floated for about an hour and a half to 2 hours and also experienced a few mini rapids here and there. We didn't experience any 'traffic' whatsoever unlike the Comal river nor were the rapids as big and intense. Drink and smoke responsibly, there are police officers watching over with their cars also hidden behind the bushes. It wasn't a problem for us but maybe for those who got shitfaced and almost got into a fight. Overall, it was awesome and I would definitely recommend if you are looking for a road trip stop or just to have fun.

It's simple, easy and fun. Thank you for allowing time off to be relaxing.

This was an awesome experience. I believe you can schedule your tubing experience advance. We arrived close the the last departure time. We paid and a bus soon came to pick us up.

The bus took us to the top of the hill by entrance to the river. We were able to select our tubes, and a tube for our cooler . After you walk down the hill you just hop in and let the river do its thing.

A few hours later the river opens up and there is a small beach. That's where you hop out and can catch a bus back to your car. Some people appeared to be hanging around for a swim. There are restrooms available here as well.

What is better than a cool ride down the river on a hot Texas day?!

Tubing down the river was awesome, but there was an area probably less than 10 min where it ended where the current of the river kind of stopped and we all just sat there for a little while

O mighty mighty Don! We've been coming to Don's for close to 10 years now and it's always been my favorite float in central Texas. The place has certainly picked up in popularity in recent years, but if you get there early enough, you are guaranteed to have a good time with little wait.

If you are a larger group, I would HIGHLY recommend renting the VIP bus! It will pick you up and drop you off in Austin (or San Antonio, I believe) for appx $50pp - totally worth not hassling with DDs and organizing cars, etc. Our driver, Lee, was absolutely amazing, super friendly and accommodating!

My girlfriends and I were in town for a "Girls Weekend". We did the VIP Shuttle, which picked us up at our home and drove us back for $55 a person with float tubes included! It was such a deal. Our driver, Garth, was the highlight for many of the girls. Not only was he handsome, he was a standup gentleman that whole time. He called 40 mins ahead to let us know he would be on time, and showed up 5 min early. This really helped me help heard all the cats as you know how it could be with 9 girls pre-partying....He helped us with our coolers and even helped us tie up our floats at the drop off location. He went above and beyond to make us all happy (including pulling out all the blue tubes as one girl had requested!). Garth made the river float an amazing experience for us all. I can't wait to come back.

Best float in texas by far. I've always had an amazing time. Not as strict as any where else I've been. Fun friendly staff. An all out blast of a float you can have. Thanks to all the staff who brave the texas heat so we can have fun. Sincerely Charles W.

Super fun! Also easy to find when our directions to another tubing place ended up screwy. Glad we ended up here!!

Floating San Marcos River done right. Tube Rentals and bus rides, everything you need. Tubing the san marcos at Don's Fish Camp is the best. Sun, water, tubes, floating cooler, good times.

Our ALLLLLL time most favorite vacation. We live 2 hrs away and still make 4 trips a year. We float and camp with our young kids. Dons camp has always been good to us. I will say though party atmosphere but over all one of the most beautiful places in Texas!

My first date was at Don's. An after several trip through out the year. One year later in the middle of the river I asked her to marry me. Thanks to Craig an his staff we have always felt welcome an had the best of times.

Love love love this place! I've been coming here for a good few years && it's always a blast. It's a pretty long tube ride so plenty of water, beer, and food are a must! There is a few places you can just hang out && eat without worrying if your gonna run into some bumpy part! Just be careful and don't loose your keys... almost happened the last time I was there

We are from Wichita Falls Tx . We have a daughter , nephew and niece that has fell in love with San Marcos and we can see why. We have been there 3 times this summer and have done the back float and Don's float. We highly recommend Don's float to any of the float's we have done!
It was wonderful to park, set camp up. Get a shuttle to the drop off and float back to our camp spot. No worries about getting back to our car's or to have to worry about driving after drinking.
We do highly recommend everyone to help keep it clean and everyone keep picking up there can's so we can continue to drink while we float !
Don's Fish Camp will be the one we go back to every year ! Hope to meet Don himself next time we go. You can't beat it ! It was wonderful and we had a wonderful time at Don's Fish Camp. I highly recommend it !!!

I'm from Louisiana where tubing means a slow trudge down a muddy, shallow river. On the flip side, this river was blue and even had several areas of rapids. Don's Fish Camp was easy to find and the service was top notch. The trip down this cool water will take you about three hours or so depending how often you stop.

This is very much an awesome time! Highly recommend for folks who just want to have a good time and drink lots of booze while relaxing on a very calm river! $12 to rent a lube and have a day of fun is very affordable IMO.

This place is fantastic. I don't understand the bad reviews. My family goes several times a year. Yes the road is bad right now. Floods happened at the end of May, I guess they didn't know? It's not expensive. 12.00 if you bring your own tube. And those complaining about the extremely long waits on 4th of July, what the hell did you expect? It's Texas, in the summer, on a holiday celebrating independence. No seriously, what the hell did you expect?? The bus drivers are kind of in a hurry because it's so popular, a lot of people are waiting and they don't want you to. Everyone including Don have always been SO friendly and helpful. My recommendation is if you don't want the huge crowd and want to take your family, go on Sunday.

I love me some tubing, and despite my dehydration getting the best of me later on, it was still a great experience. I thought the pay/drive up/parking situation was weird and not what I'd seen before, but I guess whatever works. We had brought styrofoam coolers which are a no no on the river so we obviously had to then rent the cooler for $10. I feel like the ride was much shorter than usual, but again that could just be due to the recent floods and faster moving water. I would go back because it's not as packed as some of the other places, but I'm still not sure that it would be my first choice.

This place is fantastic. I don't understand the bad reviews. My family goes several times a year. Yes the road is bad right now. Floods happened at the end of May, I guess they didn't know? It's not expensive. 12.00 if you bring your own tube. And those complaining about the extremely long waits on 4th of July, what the hell did you expect? It's Texas, in the summer, on a holiday celebrating independence. No seriously, what the hell did you expect?? The bus drivers are kind of in a hurry because it's so popular, a lot of people are waiting and they don't want you to. Everyone including Don have always been SO friendly and helpful. My recommendation is if you don't want the huge crowd and want to take your family, go on Sunday.

So much fun, Broke Niggaz stay home

Great tubing experience! !

Going a holiday weekend was a crazy idea. This is the party place. Great float and tubes.

Is Siri my name is Bill Maerk I would like to thank you very much help my step daughter Jennifer she's a good girl but a hard life and she just need somebody help get on the right path just want to say thank you sir does anything I can help with her mom please just let us know me and her mother say God bless you and thank you for what you done she sounds really happy for change the cases thank you and if there's anything you can do let us know this is her little brother and mother picture of them

Don's.  What can i say about this wonderful place?  I grew up around Schertz/New Braunfels and have floated the Guadalupe and Comal rivers for many years.  I started floating at Don's about 3 years ago and haven't been anywhere else.  Yes you do have the occasional out of town frat-boy douche bag that trash the river, but for the most part it is clean (ever been to the Guadalupe during River Raft Race???)  Don is a great guy who is generous enough to let people use his land for what we enjoy most:  drinking and having great times with good friends.  I'm there at least twice a week during the summer and it never gets old, and neither do the rulers on Don's suspenders.  Hell, he even wears those things to the bar.

Just a small update. On Saturdays they no longer allow you to bring your own tubes since they take up room on the bus. A quick work-around for this is to get a buddy to drop off someone with your own tubes at the drop-off location (just follow one of the buses) and then come back to the campsite and get on the bus.

Go early, like before 1pm, or else you'll wind up waiting for the bus for sometimes an hour or more during really busy days. It gets crowded quickly as the day passes. I'd recommend the 10am-11am hours as the best. Anything after 2pm you'll be waiting hours to get in the river.

Like the Comal and the Guadalupe, the San Marcos river is getting a little low. It's not so bad that you are forced to walk a lot, but there are definitely some low spots.

"I wasn't born in Texas, but I got here as soon as I could,"  and Don's Fish Camp is the reason I say that!  I'm no expert in floating (I can't even remember the rivers I've actually floated because this experience usually involves a loss of memory), but out of all the touristy floating places a non-Texan could choose to go, Don's has the most local color...I wouldn't even call it touristy.  You'll most likely need 4 wheel drive to get yourself there so find yourself a friendly Texan to drive.  Once you arrive, Don's measuring-tape suspenders and usually a batch of puppies welcome you.  I don't remember how much it cost, but ladies, "Show me boobies for a free tubie."  That used to be the policy when I went but that was a long time ago when they didn't even accept credit cards and there weren't many "employees."  Things may've changed.  Apparently there's all these rules now and your chances of being stopped during your float have increased significantly but I've never had a problem.  My cooler has always been over-sized too.

Don's is a easy float with some great spots along the route for you and your group to come ashore and work on getting wasted-face.

Getting to Don's can be slightly tricky so it helps to have someone in your party who has been before. The people are friendly, but it can take forever to actually get toobing here. They have one little shack with one window EVERYONE has to buy their tube rentals from. I've found much more fluid toobing experiences near Gruene TX while going to the Guadalupe.

In the water, this part of the San Marcos river is relatively quiet. As far as I know, only Don's sends tubers through and unlike the Comal or Guadalupe which can harbor LOTS more people, Don's has a fairly quiet ride.

Don's should definitely be on your tubing radar, but don't forget to check out the Comal and Guadelupe. They all offer slightly different tubing experiences.

OK now my review is a bit out dated but I thought I'd share anyways!

I stumbled on this place in July of 09' with a big group of friends, oh I'd say about 15-18 of us.

I found it to be very relaxing almost zen like! Tons of trees, shade and easy floating, . If you don't like crowds and crowds of people then this is the place! I liked the Guadalupe but this had one up on them, I felt like the 2h Guadalupe wasn't enough.. this was 5 hr float that went by quick. I was completely shocked after finding out that we were out as long as we were!

Now since the float is long, noon is a good target time to try and float by, give or take an hour for the people who are late in the group ; )

Plus's: No police or no crazy college kids, very mellow.

Never had a problem here. Timely pickups. Fair pricing. Good variety of float travel times. Make sure and get the tube with the bottom cover or your butt will scrape against some rocks and/or possible debris.

Been Coming Here For Years! Always A Blast!! Double Check The Weather Before Going! Bring A Big Group And Bring Twine To Tie Tour Tube To Others! Bring A Cooler With A Locking Lid! a
And A Cheap Backpack For Trash! Don't Litter Keep This Place Looking Good!

This place is my jam, every other river place is strict compared to Don's. Other than NO GLASS there's basically no rules!

I recently camped out here on July 23rd, 2010. I had spent weeks planning a huge get together for both camping and then tubing down the river the next morning. I finally chose Don's place after reading many online reviews. I'm so glad I did!

I will tell you, it is kinda difficult to find. Use your GPS. Neither Google Maps online or iPhone Google Maps can find this address. Here is a hint for those who use Google Maps: After turning onto Quail Road, take a left at the dead end which is Main St that turns into NW River Road...go for almost a mile and then take a left at Nelle and then just keep driving and driving until you hit the water...you'll know Don's when you see it!

As for the people who wrote reviews about waiting forever...that is true of any tubing place....if you show up after 12. The trick is to either camp out there the night before and get your tubes (and parking) early....or just show up at 10:30 or 11 am when it opens. If you really want to go tubing bad enough that you wait in line for 2 hours, wouldn't you rather sacrifice a Friday night for once and just try to make it early the next day? It was worth it as we were done floating by 3pm...AND WERE SHOCKED to see how ridiculous the line was. Come early and I assure you that you will have a beautiful, fun, and drunk time!

P.S. It is sooo gorgeous and peaceful out there!

First off, Don is super cute. Secondly, the river was great this day, the company was awesome, the prices are reasonable and it was overall a perfect day.

I have been tubing in both the Comal and Guadalupe rivers and at Don's (the San Marcos river), it did not feel like an extended version of Schlitterbahn.

I may have found my new favorite place to tube.

The actual river and tubing part is fanshmastic.  Unlike some of the places in New Braunfels (looking at you Rockin' R) the rapids at this place won't spill you down a three-foot-drop, upend your cooler and destroy your back and legs.  And there were hardly any people on the river, although it was a Wednesday afternoon.  

And I found a fishing rod!  Was dragging my feet trying to get our cooler tube unwrapped from a stump and came up with a rod and reel!  Awesome!

This place is kind of hard to find and while I got a giggle out of driving through a trailer park and over a cattle guard, that didn't affect the review.  What did knock them down a star was the bus completely loaded up with folks ready to go and their employees sitting there with a thumb up their ass making us wait over three beers worth just sitting and baking in the bus.

yep. still being slutty with my stars. and still not using caps. at this point it is the principle of the thing. let me be clear. jacob r is a buddy of mine. known him for 9 years. i just read his review of dons and i've never been this close to wanting to punch him. i love you, jacob r, in a totally hetero man way. but if you talk trash about don . . . . u might as well talk trash about chuck. and yes, it's inefficient. but there is a line FOR A REASON!!! see, u just made me use caps. look behind you . . .

the buses are scary. along with the drivers. if ure lucky u will get the old guy who tells dirty jokes regardless of the fact there might be children around. REALLY dirty jokes. but when it comes to floating, lets look at the logistics of this issue . . . .

1. floating the guad means a several hour investment, which means at some point you're going to have "that girl" (and u all know who i'm talking about) drunk, screaming she wants to go home. yeah, don't look at me like you don't know what i'm talking about. if you are its BECAUSE you're that girl. and then, depending on the water level, u might have to do a portage or ten. and if you don't know what that word means please go back to your US weekly.

2. if u try and do the comal (which used to be decent), look at the nice little laws they've passed over the last year concerning beverage consumption. are you going to float to get sun? NO!! ure going to drink alot and have a good time with friends!!! i really don't want to deal with some barney fife in san marcos in his little boat with the electric motor telling me i cant have a cooler holding 2,372 beers. yes, officer, i have been drinking. no, im not operating a motorized vehicle. but lets make it interesting. let me on board there skipper and take this up a notch.

3. dons float is pretty. no homeowners worried about their property value bitching and moaning. lots of places to pull over and party. lots of rope swings. occasional person on horseback mid river. and you leave with 82 new friends. the float, if you just do it straight, depending on water level, is about 2 hrs. which means the drunk hag that can't hold her liquor is done and done, and you and everyone else can go do it again!!! or, if you pull over enough, u can get in at noon snd not out until 8. problem solved. and u don't have to pay again. once you've got that wrist band you're money for the day.

yes, don appears to be a dirty old man. as you drive on the property, you should start playing dueling banjos and telling the person next to you "squeal like a pig boy!!". but it's a great float. and the only one i'll be doing anytime soon. and often. like alot often. as in is the sun coming out today . . . . .

and if ure wondering on my use of pronouns . . . . kiss my ass

After a most heinous wait last summer, I swore I would never come back on a weekend. I surprised even myself when I decided I wanted to give it another try. On Memorial Day. Crazy.

To say I had a better time would be a HUGE understatement. Even on Memorial Day (granted, early on Memorial Day), there was NO LINE. There were NO CROWDS. And, because it was still early in the day, it was not unbearably hot before we got on the water. Our only wait was about 25 minutes on the bus for a few other toobers to show up and make it worth the bus driver's time, and our float today was a solid three hours.

So here's my updated take: I'm pretty sure my first visit was on The Busiest Day Ever x5. Even when we left today at 3, the parking lot was no where near as crowded as my first experience at Don's at any point in the day and everyone in line at 3 today would clearly make the next bus out. I'm sure there was a line earlier in the afternoon, but based on how much better the parking situation was, I can only assume it was not unbearable---TIP: if people are paying to park on neighbors' front yards before Don's property-turn around! Come back another day!

For a wait-free float, try to be there as close to open as possible-today it was 11 am. My first visit was with a much larger group and big groups tend to have a hard time getting anywhere on time, in my experience. Saying you'll get there at 11 and not getting there until 12:30 is a huge difference here.

BRING A TRASH BAG (I use a mesh laundry bag) to take with you on the river. It's such a shame to see all of the discarded beer cans in what is otherwise such a beautiful environment.

Lastly, do not, under ANY circumstances, go into the portapotties. Also, do not stand downwind from said portapotties. There are no words.

Went toobin' a couple days ago on a Sunday, and had a great time.  Once we got there (Don's can be hard to find) about 12:30, wasn't any line to speak of (maybe 5 mins to get at tube, and another 5 waiting for the bus). Costs $12 for the tube and the ride, still $12 if you bring your own tube, another $12 for a tube for your cooler, $5 per person for parking.  I'd have given it 5 stars if it wasn't for the few idiots who insist that everyone else listen to their music.

No matter the water levels at the other rivers in this area, the Eskimo Hut 101 to Don's float is always flowing.

My brother and I came here on the Saturday of July 4th weekend. When we arrived we couldn't believe how crowded it was! There was a line to get in and pay, a line to get wristbands for tubing, and a line to get on a bus. Even so, the lines were moving at a reasonable pace and our asses were on the river in no time.

It's filled with crazy college kids but that's the allure of it to me, as I used to be one of those crazy college kids :)

Definitely fun. We were one of the few groups with kids. But it was cool, everybody was cool, helpful and respectable. If you bring your own tubes drop them off at the 101 where the bus drops you off and leave a friend and go back and catch the bus and meet back up.

I cant say enough good things about this place. We came from all corners of Texas to Don's for a weekend of skanky fun. There was about 20 of us...we heard that The Guadalupe was way too low to float and would have to walk a portion of the river....wasnt having that. So we found Don's by accident. I am so glad we did.

We all pack into the Van-O-Fun and got lost...our GPS failed us and banjos were playing as we went down a few of these country roads...but thats ok...we fired the GPS and called instead. So that goes to show how off the map this place is. We get there....there is a sign that says toobin and arrow pointing to Don's...and a line to get on the property. It was 5 bucks to park...and 12 bucks for a toob regardless if you have your own toob or not. We got our wrist bands and had to sign a waiver...but in comparison to my previous river trips...it didnt take us long to get in the water. The toob rental place had everything you need to in order to make your river experience an enjoyable one....from water proof cameras to even river radio rentals. We were going to rent a radio...but I forgot my iPod.

We get into the water....and the water levels were low to some standards...but still floatable. There were canoes and kayaks that were navigating the waters just fine. Crack open a beer and off you go. We were in the water for over 5 hours....mainly because we stopped and got to know some locals on one of our stops...they played some great music...Bollyjuice and I were schooling them in the fine art of ass shaking. If  we didnt stop...it was about a 3.5 hour float. Then we were greeted at the end of our float by the man...the myth...Don himself!! He looks like a dirty old man...and he is!! He wore his signature suspenders and cut off shorts. My girlfriends and I took a pic with him...but I know that if could get away with it...he would have copped a feel. He certainly loves the ladies....and even asked us where we were going that night...I wonder if he was going to make an appearance :P ?

I had a great time and everyone else loved it as well. This river is much more tamer than the Guadalupe....I didnt flash anyone this time....thats why I gave it 4 stars...just kidding!! You should def float the river at Don's....you wont be disappointed.

If you've never heard of this place then I dont know how you would know it exists.

This place is down a rocky dirt road and its $5 per person just to park.  Then you gotta carry all your stuff up to the bus pick up and pay $12 regardless of if you have a tube or not.  Its also more for if you need a cooler tube and and they actually charge you for rope.  I dont think I've ever been so nickle and dimed before in my life.  On the bright side, thats my only complaint is the cost.  The river portion itself is awesome.  The trip has 4 shotgun islands and a couple of "rapids" to speed you up.  Since it hasnt rained in a while the 3 hour float became 5 hours but if you have a lot of people and beer, its still a really fun and relaxing trip.  All of the people we met along the way were hilarious and just as drunk so all in all it made for a great trip.  Its also worth noting, since its on private land there aren't any cops (at least that we saw) along the river.  However, there were two officers at the end where we got out so make sure you're able to stand up by the time the ride is over.

Great Place! This is one of the great secrets of San Marcos.  Clean, quite river float, no over crowding while in the river.  Don's Fish Camp is on the primitive side but perfect to serve those who go to the river to float and get away from everything else. Not over priced to rent tubes, just make sure you pack all the things you will need on the river before you get there. Will be going back often!

Don's Fish Camp is a cheap and easy way to get wet real fast.

Pass a curvy road, a few cows and some ponies, a creepy trailer park and you're there. The 2+ hour float is a relaxing one - you don't pass by too many houses or any noisy resorts, you won't spot many popos regulating on the life of the party (at least we didn't see any on Labor Day weekend) ... it's just a nice ride down a sun-kissed San Marcos rio with non-freezing temps.

Take note, kiddos:
-It's a shitaous drive down that long gravel road. And I like old dirt roads; but this is more like driving on razor blades. Ouch.
-$5 per vehicle to park.
-$12 tube rental which includes a dangerous shuttle ride (driven by Otto) to and from the rio.
-Unlike most tube rental places, they won't hold your keys; so pick the most responsible - or in some cases, the "least irresponsible" - person to hold the goods.
-They sell ice, rope, koozies, and those nerdy floating bobbers for your sunglasses (I actually own a pair.). And you can rent a cooler and the radio coolers ($60) that connect to your iPod.
-They accept credit cards, but the attendant moves at a snail's pace.

We brought some out of town friends here to cool down on a very hot day and had the best time.  They told us it was going to be the last weekend for the year that they would be open and it wasn't  very crowdedat all.  We got there around 1230pm.  We waited for about 30-40 min. for them to coordinate the bus to take us up the river which was probably the only annoying thing that happened the whole day -- only because it was smokin' hot and we were anxious to get on the water!    Once we got on the water ....it was so nice and relaxing.  The float lasted about 3.5 hours.  We never had to get out and walk our tubes although we did have a few butts up or you would get a nice bruise from the rocks.    There were a few stagnant areas where you kind of had to paddle to get out of because the river was moving so slow.  Also, a few buggy areas....nothing crazy  although a girl from another group said she saw a snake swimming by which freaked out one of my girlfriends.  All in all, it was a beautiful and relaxing way to spend the day!  We will definitely go back next summer and hopefully we'll get to see Don next time!

We had such a great time the two times we have been to Don's!  How easy is that....buy your ticket, get on the bus for a 10 minute ride and they drop you within 15 ft from the river!  Nice float....not overly crowded...just right!  Heading back this year for another adventure!  Don's is so much easier and enjoyable than the other floats I have been on that turned into alot of work.  I recommend Don's for your float of fun!

Nothin but FUN!

Come for the tubing, stay for the passed out co-eds!

If you're in for a big dose of debauchery, this is the place to spend your summer Saturday.  Tube rental is cheap, the river is pretty and the scene at Don's beach is always entertaining.  Last year I saw some guy pull up in his pick up, plug his guitar into an amplifier, and play Tool songs for an hour.  Some other fella hopped up in the back and played air drums.  

Don't forget to bring an extra beer for Don, who'll be walking around looking like an old leather handbag.  He's a good hearted fella.

You'll see plenty of drunken shenanigans and lobster-tinted, unconscious college kids washing ashore in endless waves.  It's a fun thing to witness about once a year.

This is definitely the best float!  The river is always flowing, the water level isn't low, no cooler restrictions - or any restrictions for that matter to my knowledge!  It is pricier than other places, but it is worth it for the float and convenience of everything.  Drive down the dirt road, pay the parking attendant, park close to the building, buy your tickets and jump on the bus!  The float is realistically about 3 hours, and you can always add time to that if you stop and mingle with all the friendly and inebriated college kids.  There is a food truck for that much needed grub after drinking and floating in the sun.  Don't litter in the river!!!

I think this could be my new go-to for the toobing. (Can YOU explain the double o?)

First of all, don't get there before they open. Duh.

I didn't like that we had to each pay to get in. In a car of 4, we had to pay $20. That I didn't get. I can understand paying per car, but each person? Dude.

Since we were there so early, we pretty much had the entire river to ourselves. It's worth it to get there that early. Amazing. The water was perfect, the float was perfect, no serious-serious rapids (that require you to get out). Beverages are allowed. If you're in to that sort of thing.

And my favorite part? The bus ride is at the beginning of the ride. So you get out and walk to your car. Perfect.

What a perfect way to end the summer. I totally see myself coming back here.

If you want REAL tubing, not that pussy ass sober shit they do in New Braunfels, you go to Don's, no debate. Why not Texas St. Tubes you say? Shut your mouth here's why:

First off, Don is awesome.  I mean like Jesus fighting a T-rex while riding a Unicorn awesome.  If it wasn't for all the red tape in the Catholic chuch these days we would be calling it Saint Don's Fish Camp.  Needless to say the man gets more ass than a Donkey farm.

Next, you can bring beers on this river. How many beers?  All THE FUCKING BEERS.  Trust me you'll need them.  Now if you are thinking, "I don't think I'm man enough to drink that many beers,"  you're probably right.  But if you go to Don's there will be plenty of fine ladies to help you guzzle it down.

"I don't drink beer" - Fuck you, skank I know your type, you can't come to Don's.

Now let's say it's Wednesday and you have a big project due tomorrow in class.  FUCK YOU, YOURE GOING TO DON'S.  It's half price tubes so take that six bucks you saved and chip in with your friends to buy another case of the Diesel and some ice then pack that cooler tight.

Once you're on the river if you think you can pry all the women off you clamoring after your chiseled beer gut make sure to stop at Shotgun Island.  Which of the 5 or so islands/beaches is Shotgun Island you ask?  FUCKING ALL OF THEM.

If you managed to stay conscious through the whole float, congratulations.  Make sure your car is parked in a good spot for the night, but fuck it, it's a rental, do a couple donuts in the parking lot first.  Then grab some of that delicious BBQ from the food truck and shove it down your face hole.

Nobody likes a drunk driver so end the day hopin' in your boys 2012 Toyota Tunda Texas Edition and ride off blaring some Dubstep like the fucking BOSS you are.

The float is beautiful! Winston, our driver, was very nice. My mom, boyfriend and I had a wonderful time this past weekend, floating and sipping 'ritas. We will be back for sure.

I've been putting off this review for several years because I didn't want the secret to get out. This is the best float in the area, hands down...and with all the new rules for those "other" river toobing locations, it seems the secret is officially out.

Bring your friends, bring your beer and be ready to sit back and chill. We usually get there around noon and try to make it to the river before the big crowds. But sometimes you just want to pull your toob over to the side, turn up your music and start a party in the middle of the river with all the other groups. Everyone's welcome!

Enjoyed their recent crawfish boil at the end of our last float. That was a nice added touch. As others mention, it's a $5 entry per person upon driving in...some seem upset by this, but it's the exact same amount you'd pay for bus service at any of the other locations. Cash only though at the entrance, they take cards at the main station where you rent everything else.

I can not love on Don's Fish Camp enough!

I love checking out the reaction(s) of my friends when I bring them here for the first time.  They seem to be having a good trip up to Don's...until we turn on the dirt road, then they get confused.  And without fail, someone makes a "you sure do got a purdy mouth, boy" joke followed by a "why do I care if the children that play here are slow or not" but I digress.

$5 per person gets you parking (regardless of if you carpool or not) and be sure to come up with a fun theme for the fake names you all sign on the waver with.  Park where ya like and strip down to your swimsuits.  Drag those coolers up the hill and get in line to get your toobs then get in line for your bus ride.

Float the wonderful ride (with NO restricted container laws) back to the car and be sure to stop at every shotgun island along the way.  Depending on how much time you have, re-ride's are only $5!  

So go, go check it out NOW!  Last time we went, it was on a Thursday and we had our own bus when riding to the drop-off point and pretty much felt as tho we had the entire river to ourselves. Paradise.

Don's Fish Camp is not a fish camp.  Don's is the reason I love summer.  Don's is the reason I have this permanent tan.  Don's is by far my favorite place to float.  

Why it's so great:
-It's very accessible from Austin, the river is feels great and flows nicely, shotgun island is always bumpin.
-The bus takes you to the start so that you end the trip at your car, this means you never have to sit on a school bus in a wet swimsuit.
- The tubes are fun, bright colors and not the painfully hot black ones.

Tips:
- The line can get real long so get your act together and arrive before noon.
-They do take credit cards now, welcome to the future Don!
- They sell great last minute items like ice, rope, and koozies. You can even rent a radio cooler from them and be the coolest guy on the river.

Warnings:
- The road to paradise is a rough one, I recommend driving your tank here.
- $5/person just to park, it makes me sad that they don't reward carpooling.

My first time ever floating the river and I had a great experience from Dons fish camp. We charted a bus from Austin (seriously the best idea ever) so we didn't have to worry about parking, but the field to park in seems to fit quite a few cars. The lines went pretty fast and if you forgot anything, and I mean anything, they have it. From rope(buy it) to sunscreen, koozies, waterproof cameras. I mean you name it.
From what I hear,  other toobing sites have banned beer cans, trying to eliminate littering but Dons still allows beer cans. (Dont be the douche who ruins that)
The tubes are basic orange tubes, they don't have a bottom so watch your butt on the rocks.
The bus ride to and from the river is quick and a great place to get your pre game on.
My first toobing experience was great and I cant wait to go back!

What do you do in the hot Texas heat to cool down? You float the river! I know there are many options and some that are probably cheaper than Don's but this place knows what they are doing and they do it well! You drive in, pay for parking -- $5 per person despite the fact that you are carpooling... the $5 is really for the bus ride so no complaints there. Get your gear, line up for the bus, they drop you off right at the beginning of the river and voila!!!! You can rent tubes from them for $12 or bring your own! They have tubes with bottoms for your coolers too. Don't forget to grab a mesh bag for your trash. The river takes anywhere between 4-6 hours to float...really depends on how long and often you stop along the way.  Lots of people, lots of fun! It ends right where you parked!  So much fun....definitely check it out if you haven't!

I have been coming here every summer for about 6 years now and I have never been disappointed. I love how natural this river is. Not a lot of man made objects like the Comal river. Lots of rope swings and we love shotgun island. So much fun. It's always a party on the river.

I suggest bringing/buying sunglass floaters. So many sunglasses have been taken by this river.

Please don't litter! Keep the river clean!

Bottom line up front: Don's is by far the best for floatin' in central Texas...and I have floated quite a few different rivers with different tube companies.  

If you are heading south on the 35 from Austin, take exit 205, go east (left) under the overpass, and take the 80 east until you see signs for Don's.  There is a gas station you can cut through to get to the frontage road AKA NW River Rd.  This is where Don's final drive off shoots from (a right turn on Nelle Ln).

You'll have to pay for parking - $5 per person, you'll get your first wrist band.  Here you will also sign a waiver while in the car.

Go park wherever - if you have a lot of coolers and gear, try parking closer to the lines to avoid carrying a ton of stuff...just remember the river is where you will be coming from at the end of the day, so maybe parking close to the river will work better.

The lines for getting tubes and gear may be long, don't get disheartened, even in the longest line, I have never taken longer than 10-20 minutes between showing up and getting on the bus.  It's also the perfect time to start your drinking!

They pack the bus with people, tubes, and coolers, so hopefully you don't mind going shoulder to shoulder to shoulder with sweaty people.

The bus drops you off at a little bridge where you will start your float!

Here are some reasons why I think the San Marcos River is the best:

-No anti-beer-can law
-"Shot Gun islands" all throughout
-The water is always flowing - the Guadalupe (for example) sometimes is so low and slow you have to walk...not the case for the San Marcos.  There are even some rapid-ish areas that are fun - hold that cooler tight!
-Even with steady current, the float will be around 3 hours, plenty of time to get through that 24 pack of Lonestar Talls you were worried about not finishing
-Everyone has always been really cool and nice here
-About halfway through the float, there is a big shot gun island after a little rapid/waterfall area where kids and their parents will collect all your empty cans

Tips:
-If you didn't get beer or remembered you need something, there's a Walmart as soon as you get on the 80 from the 35.
-Water socks or hiking slippers are highly recommended...especially with things like jagged beer cans and glass possibly just below you
-Sunglass floaties or "Croakies" are a must.  I've found pairs of Oakleys and Michael Kors by just reaching into the water.
-Buy a waterproof box - $25, worth every penny - you will be a superhero when everyone gets to have their phone, camera, and wallet with them. Tie this off.
-Remember to grab at least one mesh garbage bag per person or you will be the lone garbage man or woman
-Bring nylon rope, precut into 4ft lengths - minimum of two per person (trust me, this will save a lot of hassle for tying off to one another and strapping down the cooler)
-Bring sun screen - although you may have a solid tan and wont burn, that doesnt mean your dumb albino friend didn't think ahead
-If you're thinking about bringing a super heavy floating stereo, there will be plenty of people with them floating the river
-Hold someone's hand when you pee, they don't know you're going, and its funny to tell them at the end of the day you did it 5 times over the course of the trip
-Marshmallow wars are fun :)
-Salt Lick isn't too far off

Happy floating!

We took a party bus from Austin down to the river to float and it was amazing! Our bus driver was great and it was nice not to have to drive back after a full day on the river. The float itself was also a good one, I haven't been to that river before and it moved well and had some nice spots to pull to the side and hang out for a bit. I would definitely recommend and will be going back!

Take this from a girl who was formerly anti-tubing, this tube ride is THE best!  This part of the river is not nearly as narrow as the Comal and even more spacious it seems than other parts of the San Marcos River I've floated.

On a late Sunday afternoon, it was less busy than the drop off at the Lions Club and lots quitter.  And it's definitely way prettier.  We saw baby turtles, Cardinals, and all sorts of pretty birds on this tube ride.  

About three hours and xx ounces of beer in, I was really grateful that the bus ride for this trip happened at the beginning of the float and not at the end - when I was slightly sun-burned and more than slightly buzzed.  

On that note, pack some snacks for your cooler (in ziplocs or Tupperware) and sip a little water along the ride.  'Cause it's a long one!  And if traffic was anything like it was on Sunday night, you'll be sorry if you don't.

Well worth my four hours and $10!

Not really a lot to write. Don's is the biggest tube spot on the San Marcos. Its really your only option.

First time floating for me so I have nothing to compare to but from what I saw...
--They have a good system down.
--Moved a lot of people through in a short amount of time.
--San Marcos river is a good spot to be.

Great place to go tubing if you want to avoid the hassle of walking back to your car after baking in the sun for a few hours.

I went with some co-workers for a team building event on a Friday. There were hardly any folks on the river besides running into a couple of groups who had set up camp along the bank. We floated for about 4 hours and once we got off, I was so thankful we didn't have to go far to the car.

Basically, once you're on site, you can park and take a shuttle to your tubing drop off point. Then you float until you arrive back at the Don's Fish Camp site. Super convenient!

My tip:
This path doesn't have much tree coverage so I recommend a hat and lots of sunscreen. I mean LOTS. Happy floating to all!

Great place to tube!!

Went there once before and the river was too high to float. They refunded our entry fee. The antics of the college age kids made me think this wasn't a good place for me, so I never came back until this weekend.

To my suprise, even on a holiday weekend, this was a very well run operation. Great float and great time.

The river was great. There was a heavy police and emergency responder presence due to a recent drowning. It kept the shenanigans to a minimum and kept the float enjoyable. Thanks, Don's and San Marcos!!!

There should definitely be a way to control people puking into the river and throwing beer cans in the river. Other than that, no complaints. This is the most natural feeling river float I've been to since you're not in the middle of a city with roads to your sides and train tracks over your head.

Is Siri my name is Bill Maerk I would like to thank you very much help my step daughter Jennifer she's a good girl but a hard life and she just need somebody help get on the right path just want to say thank you sir does anything I can help with her mom please just let us know me and her mother say God bless you and thank you for what you done she sounds really happy for change the cases thank you and if there's anything you can do let us know this is her little brother and mother picture of them • • • Is Siri my name is Bill Maerk I would like to thank you very much help my step daughter Jennifer she's a good girl but a hard life and she just need somebody help get on the right path just want to say thank you sir does anything I can help with her mom please just let us know me and her mother say God bless you and thank you for what you done she sounds really happy for change the cases thank you and if there's anything you can do let us know this is her little brother and mother picture of them • • •

It's a very laid back floating experience. I went with a group around noon and from the time we arrived to Dons Fish Camp to the time we starting floating was about 45 minutes. As long as you expect the wait, as we did, it was a good experience

Relaxing experience tubing the San Marcos. Easy to pay, park, ride, and float! Will definitly be back!

LOVE this place! Went last year in June and it was pretty crowded but still a blast! Went beginning of June this year and it wasn't crowded at all! Very nice and friendly staff, perfect length of time in the water. We come every year!

Don's is always a good float if you want to be around less tourists and more of a young party crowd. The river banks are still undeveloped so your not floating through people's backyards. Holidays are packed. Usually crowded by 1-2pm so go early if you want to park and get bused to the drop off quickly. The float can be 2 1/2 - 4 hours depending on how often you stop.