What is included with the tube rental?

The all-day tube rental includes life jackets, shuttle service to the launch and pick-up points, and the tube itself.

Can children participate in this tubing trip?

Yes, the tubing adventure is family-friendly and suitable for children aged five and older.

Is swimming ability required?

Basic swimming skills are recommended for safety, although life jackets are provided to all participants.

What is the best time of year to do this trip?

The tubing season runs from May through September for full-day rentals, with limited options in spring and fall depending on river flow.

Are there restroom facilities on the route?

Facilities are available at the launch and pick-up points but not along the river itself.

Can I bring food or drinks on the tube?

Food and sealed water bottles can be brought along but should be kept in a waterproof dry bag to avoid getting wet.

Tubing to The 4th Crossing: The Ultimate Summer Float Adventure in Canyon Lake, Texas

Canyon Lake, Texas, offers an ideal summer escape with its refreshing waters and scenic landscapes, but few experiences rival the invigorating journey of tubing to The 4th Crossing. This adventure is a must for anyone visiting the Texas Hill Country who wants to combine thrill and relaxation on one unforgettable day. Tubing down the Guadalupe River from Shanty Tubes, you'll glide through calm stretches interspersed with gentle rapids, surrounded by the region's rugged limestone bluffs, cypress trees, and native wildlife.

The trip begins at Shanty Tubes, a trusted local outfitter known for outstanding customer service and a focus on safety and fun. Once you’re geared up with a life jacket and tube, a shuttle will take you upstream to the Horseshoe Access Area—the launch point for your float. From here, you’ll leisurely drift downstream for approximately three and a half to four hours, though the pace and flow depend on the seasonally variable river conditions.

Along the river, you’ll pass distinctive geological features like the region’s iconic karst limestone formations, creating narrow channels and natural pools perfect for cooling off. Native plants like bald cypress and live oak provide shade and habitat for an abundance of local wildlife, from kingfishers hovering over the water to turtles basking on logs. The 4th Crossing Bridge marks your downstream destination, where another shuttle picks you and your tube up for the return trip to Shanty Tubes.

What sets this tubing adventure apart is its seamless blend of accessibility and natural beauty, making it ideal for adventurers age five and up. The trip’s flexible length allows day visitors to add on a horseback ride or other outdoor pursuits offered nearby if time permits, enriching your Hill Country experience. It’s an excellent introduction to this outdoor playground’s offerings.

From May through September, guests enjoy all-day tube rental and shuttle service with the last put-in time at 1 p.m. For early and late shoulder seasons—March, April, and October—the schedule adjusts to ensure safety and comfort, with earlier start and return times. Throughout the day, staff at Shanty Tubes provide thorough guidance and life jackets free of charge, emphasizing a worry-free float for families, groups, and solo travelers.

Whether you’re seeking a leisurely float or a refreshing way to explore Canyon Lake’s iconic waterscape, tubing to The 4th Crossing stands out as an accessible, scenic adventure anchoring your Texas Hill Country itinerary. With the Guadalupe River’s ever-changing flow and the inviting local atmosphere, every trip feels unique. Pack sunscreen, water shoes, and a readiness to relax or explore, and discover why tubing remains one of the region’s most beloved ways to connect with nature.