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The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment
Texas State The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment Education Kayak Tours

Kayak Tours

Underwater view of kayak on Spring Lake

Spring Lake Kayak Tours provides low-impact educational fun on top of the spring-fed, crystal clear waters of Spring Lake. The water here is 72 degrees year-round, home to seven endangered and threatened species, and one of the longest persistently inhabited sites in North America. This program aims to connect guests to the wonders of our local ecosystem and our relationship with the environment.

All gear will be provided by the Meadows Center, including a life jacket, kayak, and a light (evening class only).  No outside gear will be allowed unless it is pre-approved. Life jackets must be worn at all times.

Courses are limited to a minimum of 2 participants and maximum of 8. For larger groups, inquiries should be sent to the Spring Lake Education Office.

Courses Offered

1.5-hour Kayak Tour, $40/person (*$10 discount for TXST and military)

The 1.5-hour experience includes:

  • Introduction to the unique history and habitat of Spring Lake
  • Check-in, safety and skills debrief
  • Hour-long guided kayak tour 

Life jackets, paddles, and kayaks will be provided to all guests. Previous paddling experience is recommended.

*Military and Texas State University staff, faculty, and students that would like to book the tour at a $10 discounted rate should reach out to the Spring Lake Tours Office at springlaketours@txstate.edu for details.

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  • Kayak Tours (6 people max @$40/ea)

    Sunday, November 13: 3:30-5pm

    Sunday, December 11: 3:30-5pm

    Saturday, December 17: 3:30-5pm

*For more information, please email springlaketours@txstate.edu or call the Education Office at 512.245.7540.

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  • The Spring Lake Kayak Program is limited to paddlers aged 12 and up. Participants must be able to prove that they are able to paddle their own boat. Comfort around deep water and experience with kayaking is required. 

    All participants should be in good mental and physical fitness for kayaking.  A signed waiver is required for all participants stating that they will not hold Texas State University or the Meadows Center liable for any injury that may occur. 

  • Cancellations must be received at least 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund.  If a cancellation is made less than 24 hours prior to the event, you will receive half of the total amount paid. The amount refunded will be applied to the credit card that was used for payment. 

  • All visitors are required to display a parking permit Monday at 8am through Friday at 5:00 p.m. to park in the Meadows Center parking lot. One-day temporary permits are available for $3 at the pay-and-display station located near the ticket kiosk, or online through the Pay-by-App. The the pay-and-display station only accepts credit and debit cards.

  • Frequently Asked Questions

    • All you need to bring is clothes that can potentially get wet, a towel, and shoes that can get a little wet.  All other gear will be provided by the Meadows Center. Make sure that any clothing or personal items that may get in the lake is recently washed to help us prevent the introduction of zebra mussels. And, please use eco-friendly sunscreens to help us protect the fragile habitat at Spring Lake.

    • As with all of our tours, we will not hold tours if there are high winds, significant, rain, lightning, or any other dangerous weather conditions. We will alert you if we have to cancel prior to your tour starting. An opportunity to reschedule or full refunds will be offered if tours end up being cancelled due to weather.

    • No, we do not.  Due to the limited space on our tours, we require booking your tour in advance.

    • Give us a call at (512) 245-7590 or email us at springlaketours@txstate.edu.