Kayaking & Paddleboarding in New Braunfels with Outlaw River Rentals - San Antonio

Kayaking & Paddleboarding in New Braunfels with Outlaw River Rentals

San Antoniomoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

3–5 hours

Fitness Level

Participants should have moderate fitness to handle 5-mile paddles with some rapids and river currents.

Overview

Experience the scenic rivers of New Braunfels, Texas, with kayaking and paddleboarding adventures from Outlaw River Rentals. Paddle past towering cypress trees, gentle rapids, and a hidden waterfall for a memorable outdoor journey.

Details

Located in scenic New Braunfels, Texas, Outlaw River Rentals offers an unforgettable river experience ideal for those seeking adventure on Texas waterways. This unique outdoor rental company specializes in kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding along the Guadalupe and Comal Rivers, both celebrated for their pristine waters and natural beauty. Paddlers will find a mix of gentle currents, small rapids, and quiet spots perfect for exploring gravel bars, towering cypress trees, and interesting rock formations. One of the standout features of this area is the mini waterfall tucked along a cliff side, a hidden gem that adds a splash of excitement and photo opportunities during a float trip.

Outlaw River Rentals provides convenient upstream put-ins and offers shuttle service back to your start point, making hikes or paddling one-way trips easy. The company’s friendly and knowledgeable staff contribute to a welcoming vibe, showing newcomers how to safely set up paddleboards and boats, ensuring everyone feels comfortable and confident on the water. The river is fairly accessible for beginners but offers enough variety with mild rapids and natural river scenery to engage more experienced paddlers.

New Braunfels itself is known for its rich German heritage and vibrant outdoor culture, attracting visitors who come to fish, tube, and kayak on the Guadalupe River. Outlaw River Rentals complements this local backdrop by giving visitors the option to explore less crowded river segments and experience Texas wildlife up close, including native cypress groves and glimpses of river otters or herons.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing scenic paddle or a mild adrenaline rush negotiating gentle rapids, Outlaw River Rentals delivers a personalized and memorable day on the water. Despite some critical reviews regarding past customer service issues, many praise the staff’s enthusiasm and the location’s natural appeal, making it a popular destination for families, couples, and solo adventurers. For those in the New Braunfels area craving a distinctive outdoor water adventure, this outfit remains a go-to choice for paddle rentals and river exploration.

Trail Tips

Wear a personal flotation device

Always wear a life jacket while kayaking or paddleboarding for safety, even on calm stretches.

Bring sunscreen and a hat

Protect yourself from Texas sun exposure, especially during midday paddling trips on open water.

Plan for shuttle pickup

Coordinate with Outlaw River Rentals for shuttle service to retrieve your vehicle after upstream put-ins.

Watch for rapid changes in weather

River conditions can shift quickly; check the forecast and be prepared to cancel if storms approach.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • The mini waterfall near the cliffside on the downstream float
  • Secluded gravel bars perfect for picnics and resting

Wildlife

  • River otters
  • Great blue herons

History

New Braunfels was founded in 1845 by German settlers and has long been a hub for river-based outdoor recreation.

Conservation

River preservation efforts focus on maintaining water quality and protecting native cypress forests along the Guadalupe and Comal Rivers.

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour
early morning
late afternoon

Best Viewpoints

  • Near the cliffside waterfall
  • Along the quiet gravel bars
  • Under giant cypress tree canopies

What to Photograph

river rapids
native trees and plant life
river wildlife

Recommended Gear

Personal flotation device (PFD)

Essential

Vital for safety on moving river water and rapids.

Waterproof phone case or dry bag

Essential

Protects electronics and essentials from splashes and opportunity dips.

Quick-dry clothing

Essential

Helps keep you comfortable and dry when temperatures rise.

summer specific

Water shoes or sandals with grip

Essential

Provides safety and traction on slippery riverbanks and in the water.

Frequently Asked Questions

Reviews