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Swim at Rio Vista Waterfall

San Marcos, Texas

4.7/5
based on 3 reviews

Description

Added by Dave Cavanaugh

Cool water to escape the Texas heat. 

Located about an hour north of San Antonio. The San Marcos River at Rio Vista Park in San Marcos, a short drive off from I-35. There are pretty trees for setting up your hammock or to have have a picnic in the shade. Rio Vista offers a small waterfall that you can slide down, flotation recommended for weak swimmers and younger children. Tubes/shuttle are available for rent, otherwise no entry fee. 

For more information, you can head to the San Marcos tourism site: http://www.toursanmarcos.com/a...

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Features

Stand Up Paddle
Rafting
Swimming
Bathrooms
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Food Nearby
Groups
River
Waterfall
Swimming Hole

Swim at Rio Vista Waterfall Reviews

It's located in the college town, San Marcos so be weary that this is an extremely popular location for tubing, kayaking, and swimming in the Texas Hill Country area. However I do highly recommend the experience! It's fun and refreshing especially for a hot summer day. Also, parking is very limited and hard to come by.

This is what summertime in Texas is all about. Great spot for a swim!!

Wasn't really sure what to expect when driving up to this place. Parking was a struggle. They had a tiny parking lot, from what we could find, so we ended up parking on the road. I would probably advise avoiding this place on the weekend. This place is pretty similar to Barton Springs in Austin, but free, and in my opinion, better. Cold, clear water, and plenty of space to swim around. It wasn't too busy on a Wednesday. We got there around 11. It started getting busy when we left a little after 2. There is a small waterfall with a spot you can slide down, and many deep parts where you can dive in. I was really surprised by how deep the water was and how strong the current was. May not be the best if you or your kids are not strong swimmers. Be careful when going down the rock slide. Despite busting up my knee on a rock, this place was amazing and I can't wait to go back. Only 50 minutes away from San Antonio.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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