Explore Spring Lake

Splash into Science is an immersive snorkeling program that provides low-impact educational fun in the spring-fed, crystal-clear waters of Spring Lake, the headwaters of the San Marcos River. 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 continually 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 snorkel tour includes an introduction to the unique history and habitat of Spring Lake and an on-water tour of the San Marcos Springs, including Deep Hole, Cream of Wheat Springs, and the Ossified Forest. All related equipment will be provided. The on-water time for the tour is up to 50 minutes.

All gear will be provided by the Meadows Center. No outside gear will be allowed unless it is for prescription goggles. Live 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 springlaketours@txstate.edu.

*Military and Texas State University staff, faculty, and students who would like to book the tour at a $5 discounted rate should reach out to the Spring Lake Tours Office at springlaketours@txstate.edu.

Participant Requirements:
Snorkel tours are limited to swimmers aged 12 and up. Participants must be able to swim, comfortable around deep water, and have experience snorkeling. To prevent the spread of invasive species like zebra mussels, participants must arrive in a clean, washed swimsuit. View all participant requirements. 


Cancellation Policy:
We require five business days' notice if you want to reschedule or cancel your tour for a refund. If, for any reason, we must cancel the tour (bad weather, etc.), you will be allowed to reschedule for a new date or receive a full refund. Refunds will be applied to the credit card that was used for payment. If you cannot attend your tour due to an extenuating circumstance, each case will be evaluated by Meadows Center staff for an opportunity to reschedule your tour.

Parking Information:
All visitors must display a parking permit to park in the Meadows Center parking lot from Monday at 8 a.m. to Friday at 5 p.m. One-day temporary permits are available for $3 at the kiosk in the parking lot, which accepts credit cards only.

Spring Lake Guided 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.

This kayak tour includes an introduction to Spring Lake's unique history and habitat and a guided paddling tour of the lake. The tour will last up to one hour on the water.

The Meadows Center will provide all gear. 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 springlaketours@txstate.edu.

*Military and Texas State University staff, faculty, and students who would like to book the tour at a $5 discounted rate should reach out to the Spring Lake Tours Office at springlaketours@txstate.edu.

Participant Requirements:
The Spring Lake Kayak Program is limited to paddlers aged 12 and up. Participants must be 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. View all participant requirements.

Cancellation Policy:
We require five business days' notice if you would like to reschedule or cancel your tour for a refund. If, for any reason, we must cancel the tour (bad weather, etc.), you will be given an opportunity to reschedule for a new date or receive a full refund. Refunds will be applied to the credit card that was used for payment. If you cannot attend your tour due to an extenuating circumstance, each case will be evaluated by Meadows Center staff for an opportunity to reschedule your tour.

Parking Information:
All visitors must display a parking permit to park in the Meadows Center parking lot from Monday at 8 a.m. to Friday at 5 p.m. One-day temporary permits are available for $3 at the kiosk in the parking lot, which accepts credit cards only.

Calling all young adventurers! Join us for an exciting exploration as we uncover what makes San Marcos a Bird City! Learn expert tips for spotting local birds in the park, engage in fun, hands-on activities, and get creative with bird-themed crafts. Whether you're a budding naturalist or just love being outdoors, this event will ignite your curiosity and deepen your appreciation for our feathered friends.

Celebrate Independence Day with a splash of summer fun! Join us for field games and summer crafts, perfect for the whole family.

Shell-ebrate the turtles of Spring Lake! Did you know Spring Lake is home to six different species of turtles? Join us for an afternoon of turtle-themed crafts and learning stations!