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The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment
Texas State The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment Education Splash into Science Snorkel Program

Splash into Science Snorkel Program

Snorkeler at Spring Lake

Splash into Science is an immersive snorkeling program that provides low-impact educational fun in the crystal-clear waters of Spring Lake. Spring Lake is home to spring-fed waters that remain a constant 72 degrees year-round, 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 5mm wetsuit (optional), goggles, snorkel, fins, life jacket, and a dive light (evening class only).  No outside gear will be allowed unless it is for prescription goggles. 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

2-hour Introductory Course, $45/person (*$10 discount for TXST and military)

The introductory course will include:

  • Introduction to the unique history and habitat of Spring Lake

  • All related equipment and basic snorkeling skills refresher

  • Guided on water tour including Diversion Springs, Cream of Wheat Springs, and the Ossified Forest (approx. 45 minutes)

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

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  • Snorkel Tours (8 people max @$45/ea)

    Sunday, June 11: 8-10 a.m.

    Sunday, June 18: 5:30-7:30 p.m.

    Saturday, June 24: 5:30-7:30 p.m.

    Sunday, July 2: 8-10 a.m.

    Thursday, July 6: 5:30-7:30 p.m.

    Saturday, July 8: 5:30-7:30 p.m.

    Sunday, July 9: 5:30-7:30 p.m.

    Thursday, July 13: 5:30-7:30 p.m.

    Saturday, July 15: 5:30-7:30 p.m.

    Saturday, July 22: 5:30-7:30 p.m.

    Sunday, July 23: 8-10 a.m.

    Thursday, July 27: 5:30-7:30 p.m.

    Sunday, July 30: 8-10 a.m.

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

Expand FAQ List

  • Splash into Science is limited to swimmers aged 12 and up. Participants must be swim. Comfort around deep water and experience with snorkeling is required. Participants must arrive in a clean, washed swimsuit to prevent the spread of invasive species like Zebra Mussels.

    All participants should be in good mental and physical fitness for snorkeling.  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. The refunded amount will be applied to the credit card used for payment.

  • All visitors are required to display a parking permit Monday at 8am through Friday at 5pm to park in the Meadows Center parking lot.  One day temporary permits are available for purchase at the kiosk in the parking lot for $3.  The kiosk takes credit cards only.

  • Frequently Asked Questions

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

    • If you have prescription goggles, bring those and make sure you are at least 15 minutes early so we can dip them in our gear wash. If you don’t have special goggles, make sure you wear contacts. Glasses do not fit under the masks.

    • Yes, but please arrive 15 minutes early to make sure you have time to clean it.

    • It depends on how much.  There may be some issues with the mask letting in water due to the facial hair preventing the mask from sealing.  We do have a limited number of masks that go over the nose instead of under which will work and one full face mask.  We also suggest using Vaseline or something similar to help with the seal. 

    • Our stock of wet suits range from women’s XS-XL and men’s S-3XL.  If you have any concerns about fitting into a wet suit, please make note about it on your online reservation form or email us at springlaketours@txstate.edu.  You can also check out the wet suit size sheet. Wet suits are recommended but not required, and please remember that the water is a cool 72° year round.

    • 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 shoot us an email at springlaketours@txstate.edu.