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

Paddling Tours

Aerial view of stand-up paddlers on Spring Lake

Spring Lake Kayak and Stand-up Paddleboard Tours provide 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.

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 paddling tour 

Previous paddling experience is recommended. 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 a maximum of 8. For larger groups, inquiries should be sent to the Spring Lake Education Office.

Upcoming Course Dates

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  • (8 people max @$35/ea)

    Saturday, May 27: 5:30-7 p.m.

    Saturday, June 17: 5:30-7 p.m. 

    Sunday, June 25: 8:30-10 a.m.

    Sunday, July 16: 8:30-10 a.m.

    Sunday, July 23: 5:30-7 p.m.

  • (8 people max @$35/ea)

    Sunday, May 21: 5:30-7 p.m.

    Sunday, June 4: 5:30-7 p.m.

    Saturday, June 10: 5:30-7 p.m.

    Sunday, June 18: 8:30-10 a.m.

    Saturday, July 1: 5:30-7 p.m.

    Sunday, July 9: 8:30-10 a.m.

    Sunday, July 16: 5:30-7 p.m.

    Saturday, July 29: 5:30-7 p.m.

     

  • (8 people max @$45/ea)

    Saturday, May 20: 8-9:30 p.m.

    Saturday, June 3: 8:30-10 p.m.

*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.

Expand FAQ List

  • Limited to paddlers aged 12 and up. The weight limit for the stand-up paddleboards is 285 pounds. 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

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