San Marcos River

Nestled in the heart of Texas, San Marcos exudes charm and history dating back to its founding in 1846. Thanks to the strategic location along the vibrant San Marcos River, the town grew very quickly into a bustling hub for industries such as cotton mills and agriculture. It’s also celebrated for its natural springs, particularly the legendary Spring Lake, which holds spiritual significance for Native American tribes in the region.There is also presumed to be many ancient artifacts in the lake!

The San Marcos River itself is a gem of the Texas Hill Country, thanks to its crystal-clear waters and rich biodiversity. It’s a playground for just about anyone, offering activities from leisurely tubing and kayaking to adventurous canoeing and stand-up paddleboarding. You might also see scuba divers using the waters to practice. The river’s clear waters even allows for unique experiences like glass-bottomed boat tours, offering views that would make any aquarium designer jealous!

They say everything is bigger in Texas — that certainly applies when looking at the iconic Texas Water Safari, also known as “The World’s Toughest Boat Race.” Every year, brave souls embark on a grueling 260-mile (418-kilometer) journey from Aquarena Springs in San Marcos all the way to Seadrift on the Gulf Coast. Participants have four days and four hours to complete the race, paddling continuously with only quick breaks to eat.

The Safari started in 1963 with only six racers. Now, it has grown into an internationally recognized event, drawing 100-200 competitors from all around the globe. Participants face numerous challenges: the elements like the Texas heat and natural obstacles along the course, from alligators to sharks to pesky fire ants… oh my! 

And what do the winners of the race receive? No prize money; just the honor of finishing the race and “Texas-sized bragging rights.” So, whether you’re exploring the historical roots of San Marcos or witnessing firsthand the resilience of those who dare to tackle the Texas Water Safari, one thing remains as clear as the river itself: these waters flow with a unique spirit of adventure, tradition, and human endurance.