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Swim alongside horses in the stunning San Marcos River with Maverick Horseback Riding. Experience a refreshing, gentle equine adventure just outside Austin, Texas.
Swim alongside horses in the stunning San Marcos River with Maverick Horseback Riding. Experience a refreshing, gentle equine adventure just outside Austin, Texas.
Book with Maverick Horseback Riding
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Maverick Horseback Riding · Austin, Texas
Discover a one-of-a-kind outdoor adventure with the Staples River Experience by Maverick Horseback Riding in Austin, Texas. This unique trip invites you to connect with nature in an extraordinary way by swimming alongside beautiful horses in the crystal-clear San Marcos River. Located just outside Austin, this experience blends the calming joy of a refreshing river swim with the gentle companionship of horses creating a peaceful yet lively atmosphere. Whether you're splashing in shallow waters or immersing yourself fully alongside the animals, the tranquil river setting combined with the calming presence of horses offers an unmatched day of relaxation and excitement. This is perfect for all ages and skill levels, making it accessible to families, couples, and solo travelers seeking an authentic connection to Texas' natural beauty. With Maverick Horseback Riding, experienced guides ensure a safe, memorable outing while sharing their passion for horses and the environment. Bring your sense of adventure, swimwear, and a willingness to embrace the unexpected – this is not just a ride, but a true river journey where the horse and water world come together in harmony.
easy.
2–3 hours.
Suitable for all fitness levels; mostly gentle swimming and walking involved
Yes, this experience is designed for all skill levels, and basic swimming ability is recommended.
Absolutely, the horses at Maverick Horseback Riding are trained and familiar with this unique river encounter.
It’s best to bring waterproof sunscreen, a towel, water shoes, and a dry bag for your belongings.
Yes, it is suitable for families with children who can swim and want a gentle outdoor adventure.
Restroom facilities are available at the Maverick Horseback Riding base before heading to the river.
The swim portion typically lasts around 30 to 45 minutes, with additional time for preparation and interaction.
The San Marcos River has a rich history as one of the oldest continuously flowing rivers in Texas and holds cultural significance for indigenous peoples.
Maverick Horseback Riding follows eco-friendly practices to protect water quality and maintain the health of the river ecosystem.
Maverick Horseback Riding is a ranch-based equestrian outfitter operating near Austin, Texas. The business offers guided trail rides, private horsemanship lessons, river swims with horses, and ranch experiences that appeal to beginners, families, and experienced riders. Rides range from short bluff-top introductions to extended multi-hour excursions on scenic routes such as Onion Creek, the San Marcos River, Pace Bend Park, and Lockhart surrounding trails. Private options and horsemanship-focused rides provide individualized coaching, trotting and canter opportunities, and a safety-conscious environment supervised by trained staff. Maverick Horseback Riding emphasizes hands-on interaction and responsible animal care. Several experiences include light instruction, animal feeding, and behind-the-scenes observation of public riding sessions, allowing guests to learn horsemanship fundamentals and basic handling techniques. Water-based experiences feature supervised swims and photo opportunities with well-trained horses in the San Marcos River. The operation accommodates mixed groups and family riders with specific trails suited for novices and young participants. Booking options include public group rides and private reservations for couples or small groups seeking a customized pace. Located approximately 20 minutes from Austin, the ranch combines accessibility with scenic Central Texas landscapes, including wooded trails, wetlands, and panoramic bluff views. For safety and guest satisfaction, Maverick Horseback Riding maintains experienced guides, structured ride lengths, and varied trail selections. The ranch’s mix of instructional rides, private horsemanship sessions, river experiences, and sunset excursions provides a broad palette of equestrian outings near Austin. Reservations are recommended year-round and staff can accommodate varied experience levels and special requests. Book online today.
Book with Maverick Horseback Riding