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Explore Spring Lake

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Location:
201 San Marcos Springs Drive, San Marcos, Texas 78666
Cost:
$45 for Adults; $40 for Military, Veterans, & Texas State students, faculty & staff
Contact:
Spring Lake Tour Office,
springlaketours@txstate.edu
512.245.7590
Campus Sponsor:
The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment

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 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 Deep Hole, Cream of Wheat Springs, and the Ossified Forest 

The Meadows Center will provide all gear. 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 6. 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 contact 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. All participants should be in good mental and physical fitness for snorkeling. A signed waiver stating that they will not hold Texas State University or the Meadows Center liable for any injury that may occur is required for all participants.

Click here for more information
more about event

Location:
201 San Marcos Springs Drive, San Marcos, Texas 78666
Cost:
$45 for Adults; $40 for Military, Veterans, & Texas State students, faculty & staff
Contact:
Spring Lake Tour Office,
springlaketours@txstate.edu
512.245.7590
Campus Sponsor:
The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment

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 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 Deep Hole, Cream of Wheat Springs, and the Ossified Forest 

The Meadows Center will provide all gear. 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 6. 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 contact 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. All participants should be in good mental and physical fitness for snorkeling. A signed waiver stating that they will not hold Texas State University or the Meadows Center liable for any injury that may occur is required for all participants.

Click here for more information
more about event

Location:
211 San Marcos Springs Drive, San Marcos, Texas 78666
Cost:
$45 for Adults; $35 for Military, Veterans, & Texas State students, faculty & staff
Contact:
Spring Lake Tours Office,
springlaketours@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment
The Meadows Center's Guided Light-Up Kayak Tours provide a unique way to explore the headwaters of the San Marcos River! You will experience an exclusive evening view of Spring Lake while learning about its unique history, one of the longest continually inhabited sites in North America, and the protection of its critical habitat, which supports eight endangered and threatened species.

Our light-up kayak tour features a 100% clear kayak equipped with specialized underwater LED lights that offer an uninterrupted view of the wildlife and iconic San Marcos Springs below. Paddlers can also anticipate seeing a variety of wildlife, such as turtles, fish, and aquatic plants, all with a trained and knowledgeable guide available to answer questions. The on-water time for this tour is up to one hour.

All gear will be provided by the Meadows Center. 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:
This program is limited to paddlers aged 12 and up. Participants must be able to paddle their boat, and comfort around deep water and experience with kayaking are required. All participants should be in good mental and physical fitness for kayaking. A signed waiver stating that they will not hold Texas State University or the Meadows Center liable for any injury that may occur is required for all participants.
Click here for more information
more about event

Location:
Spring Lake Hall: 201 San Marcos Springs Drive, San Marcos Texas 78666
Cost:
$13/person; children 2 and under are free
Contact:
Spring Lake Tour Office,
springlaketours@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment
In this 2.5-hour guided tour, our Spring Lake Education staff will help scouts achieve all six of the 4th-grade ‘Champions for Nature’ requirements while learning about the unique ecosystem created by the San Marcos Springs. Admission includes the tour, a glass-bottom boat ride, and a Meadows Center patch.

Check-in begins at 9:45 am at the Meadows Center ticket kiosk. Tickets are $13/person; children two and under are free. An adult must accompany children, and tickets are required for both children and adults. Registration is required. Details: http://scoutday.meadowswater.org/

*Note: The Meadows Center does not distribute official scout badges. Individuals must purchase those through Scouting America.
 

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

Location:
201 San Marcos Springs Drive, San Marcos, Texas 78666
Cost:
$45 for Adults; $40 for Military, Veterans, & Texas State students, faculty & staff
Contact:
Spring Lake Tour Office,
springlaketours@txstate.edu
512.245.7590
Campus Sponsor:
The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment

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 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 Deep Hole, Cream of Wheat Springs, and the Ossified Forest 

The Meadows Center will provide all gear. 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 6. 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 contact 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. All participants should be in good mental and physical fitness for snorkeling. A signed waiver stating that they will not hold Texas State University or the Meadows Center liable for any injury that may occur is required for all participants.

Click here for more information
more about event

Location:
201 San Marcos Springs Drive, San Marcos, Texas 78666
Cost:
$45 for Adults; $40 for Military, Veterans, & Texas State students, faculty & staff
Contact:
Spring Lake Tour Office,
springlaketours@txstate.edu
512.245.7590
Campus Sponsor:
The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment

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 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 Deep Hole, Cream of Wheat Springs, and the Ossified Forest 

The Meadows Center will provide all gear. 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 6. 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 contact 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. All participants should be in good mental and physical fitness for snorkeling. A signed waiver stating that they will not hold Texas State University or the Meadows Center liable for any injury that may occur is required for all participants.

Click here for more information
more about event

Location:
211 San Marcos Springs Drive, San Marcos, Texas 78666
Cost:
$45 for Adults; $35 for Military, Veterans, & Texas State students, faculty & staff
Contact:
Spring Lake Tours Office,
springlaketours@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment
The Meadows Center's Guided Light-Up Kayak Tours provide a unique way to explore the headwaters of the San Marcos River! You will experience an exclusive evening view of Spring Lake while learning about its unique history, one of the longest continually inhabited sites in North America, and the protection of its critical habitat, which supports eight endangered and threatened species.

Our light-up kayak tour features a 100% clear kayak equipped with specialized underwater LED lights that offer an uninterrupted view of the wildlife and iconic San Marcos Springs below. Paddlers can also anticipate seeing a variety of wildlife, such as turtles, fish, and aquatic plants, all with a trained and knowledgeable guide available to answer questions. The on-water time for this tour is up to one hour.

All gear will be provided by the Meadows Center. 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:
This program is limited to paddlers aged 12 and up. Participants must be able to paddle their boat, and comfort around deep water and experience with kayaking are required. All participants should be in good mental and physical fitness for kayaking. A signed waiver stating that they will not hold Texas State University or the Meadows Center liable for any injury that may occur is required for all participants.
Click here for more information
more about event
Location:
201 San Marcos Springs Drive, San Marcos, Texas 78666
Cost:
$10/person; children 2 and under are free
Contact:
Spring Lake Educational Tour Office,
springlaketours@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment
Enjoy the crisp autumn air on a guided hike through the scenic Spring Lake Nature Preserve. Together, we'll create and use custom field guides to explore the local fauna and observe the changing seasons. Bring water and wear close-toed shoes for a safe and enjoyable journey!

This series of classes is perfect for students curious about science and the natural world. It is designed for K-12th grades to get outside and experience nature firsthand. Homeschool students are encouraged to register!

Pre-registration is required. Tickets are $10/person; children 2 and under are free. An adult must accompany children, and tickets are required for both children and adults.

Details & tickets: http://outdooracademy.meadowswater.org/
Click here for more information
more about event
Location:
201 San Marcos Springs Drive, San Marcos, Texas 78666
Cost:
$10/person; children 2 and under are free
Contact:
Spring Lake Educational Tour Office,
springlaketours@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment
Enjoy the crisp autumn air on a guided hike through the scenic Spring Lake Nature Preserve. Together, we'll create and use custom field guides to explore the local fauna and observe the changing seasons. Bring water and wear close-toed shoes for a safe and enjoyable journey!

This series of classes is perfect for students curious about science and the natural world. It is designed for K-12th grades to get outside and experience nature firsthand. Homeschool students are encouraged to register!

Pre-registration is required. Tickets are $10/person; children 2 and under are free. An adult must accompany children, and tickets are required for both children and adults.

Details & tickets: http://outdooracademy.meadowswater.org/
Click here for more information
more about event

Location:
201 San Marcos Springs Drive, San Marcos, TX
Cost:
$12/person; children 2 and under are free
Contact:
Spring Lake Education Ticket Office,
springlaketours@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment
Join us to discover the unique ecosystem created by the San Marcos Springs on this 2-hour guided tour! Learn about the importance of water and how to conserve it! Scouts will fulfill the LOVE Water and SAVE Water portion of the “Wonders of Water Journey Badge.” Admission includes the tour, a glass-bottom boat ride, and a Meadows Center Patch.

Check-in begins at 9:45 am at the Meadows Center ticket kiosk. Tickets are $12/person; children two and under are free. An adult must accompany children, and tickets are required for both children and adults. Registration is required. Details: http://scoutday.meadowswater.org/

*Note: The Meadows Center does not distribute official scout badges. Individuals must purchase those through Boy Scouts of America.
 

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

Location:
211 San Marcos Springs Drive, San Marcos, Texas 78666
Cost:
$45 for Adults; $35 for Military, Veterans, & Texas State students, faculty & staff
Contact:
Spring Lake Tours Office,
springlaketours@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment
The Meadows Center's Guided Light-Up Kayak Tours provide a unique way to explore the headwaters of the San Marcos River! You will experience an exclusive evening view of Spring Lake while learning about its unique history, one of the longest continually inhabited sites in North America, and the protection of its critical habitat, which supports eight endangered and threatened species.

Our light-up kayak tour features a 100% clear kayak equipped with specialized underwater LED lights that offer an uninterrupted view of the wildlife and iconic San Marcos Springs below. Paddlers can also anticipate seeing a variety of wildlife, such as turtles, fish, and aquatic plants, all with a trained and knowledgeable guide available to answer questions. The on-water time for this tour is up to one hour.

All gear will be provided by the Meadows Center. 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:
This program is limited to paddlers aged 12 and up. Participants must be able to paddle their boat, and comfort around deep water and experience with kayaking are required. All participants should be in good mental and physical fitness for kayaking. A signed waiver stating that they will not hold Texas State University or the Meadows Center liable for any injury that may occur is required for all participants.
Click here for more information
more about event
Location:
211 San Marcos Springs Drive
Cost:
Bring a plastic bottle or single-use plastic bag from any retailer to receive a FREE glass-bottom boat tour!
Contact:
Meadows Center Spring Lake Education Office,
springlaketours@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment & H-E-B

The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment invites you to celebrate Texas Recycles Day, sponsored by H-E-B, on November 15-17, 2024! Visitors who bring a plastic bottle or single-use plastic bag from any retailer to our ticket kiosk during the following designated hours will receive a FREE glass-bottom boat tour at Spring Lake, courtesy of H-E-B’s generous support:

  • Friday, November 15: 12-3:30 PM
  • Saturday, November 16: 10 AM - 3:30 PM
  • Sunday, November 17: 10 AM - 3:30 PM

Help us conserve and protect Our Texas, Our Future, as you explore the crystal-clear waters of Spring Lake and learn about the importance of protecting our state’s precious natural resources.

Location:
211 San Marcos Springs Drive, San Marcos, Texas 78666
Cost:
$45 for Adults; $35 for Military, Veterans, & Texas State students, faculty & staff
Contact:
Spring Lake Tours Office,
springlaketours@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment
The Meadows Center's Guided Light-Up Kayak Tours provide a unique way to explore the headwaters of the San Marcos River! You will experience an exclusive evening view of Spring Lake while learning about its unique history, one of the longest continually inhabited sites in North America, and the protection of its critical habitat, which supports eight endangered and threatened species.

Our light-up kayak tour features a 100% clear kayak equipped with specialized underwater LED lights that offer an uninterrupted view of the wildlife and iconic San Marcos Springs below. Paddlers can also anticipate seeing a variety of wildlife, such as turtles, fish, and aquatic plants, all with a trained and knowledgeable guide available to answer questions. The on-water time for this tour is up to one hour.

All gear will be provided by the Meadows Center. 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:
This program is limited to paddlers aged 12 and up. Participants must be able to paddle their boat, and comfort around deep water and experience with kayaking are required. All participants should be in good mental and physical fitness for kayaking. A signed waiver stating that they will not hold Texas State University or the Meadows Center liable for any injury that may occur is required for all participants.
Click here for more information
more about event

until Nov. 17
Location:
211 San Marcos Springs Drive
Cost:
Bring a plastic bottle or single-use plastic bag from any retailer to receive a FREE glass-bottom boat tour!
Contact:
Meadows Center Spring Lake Education Office,
springlaketours@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment & H-E-B

The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment invites you to celebrate Texas Recycles Day, sponsored by H-E-B, on November 15-17, 2024! Visitors who bring a plastic bottle or single-use plastic bag from any retailer to our ticket kiosk during the following designated hours will receive a FREE glass-bottom boat tour at Spring Lake, courtesy of H-E-B’s generous support:

  • Friday, November 15: 12-3:30 PM
  • Saturday, November 16: 10 AM - 3:30 PM
  • Sunday, November 17: 10 AM - 3:30 PM

Help us conserve and protect Our Texas, Our Future, as you explore the crystal-clear waters of Spring Lake and learn about the importance of protecting our state’s precious natural resources.

Location:
201 San Marcos Springs, San Marcos TX 78666
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Spring Lake Education Office,
springlaketours@txstate.edu
512.245.7540
Campus Sponsor:
The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment
Celebrate Thanksgiving with the Meadows Center! Create Thanksgiving-themed arts and crafts to decorate your home during the holiday season. This event is free and open to the public. Learn more at familyfun.meadowswater.org. Click here for more information
more about event

Location:
211 San Marcos Springs Drive, San Marcos, Texas 78666
Cost:
$45 for Adults; $35 for Military, Veterans, & Texas State students, faculty & staff
Contact:
Spring Lake Tours Office,
springlaketours@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment
The Meadows Center's Guided Light-Up Kayak Tours provide a unique way to explore the headwaters of the San Marcos River! You will experience an exclusive evening view of Spring Lake while learning about its unique history, one of the longest continually inhabited sites in North America, and the protection of its critical habitat, which supports eight endangered and threatened species.

Our light-up kayak tour features a 100% clear kayak equipped with specialized underwater LED lights that offer an uninterrupted view of the wildlife and iconic San Marcos Springs below. Paddlers can also anticipate seeing a variety of wildlife, such as turtles, fish, and aquatic plants, all with a trained and knowledgeable guide available to answer questions. The on-water time for this tour is up to one hour.

All gear will be provided by the Meadows Center. 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:
This program is limited to paddlers aged 12 and up. Participants must be able to paddle their boat, and comfort around deep water and experience with kayaking are required. All participants should be in good mental and physical fitness for kayaking. A signed waiver stating that they will not hold Texas State University or the Meadows Center liable for any injury that may occur is required for all participants.
Click here for more information
more about event

Location:
201 San Marcos Springs Drive, San Marcos, Texas 78666
Cost:
$10/person; children 2 and under are free
Contact:
Spring Lake Educational Tour Office,
springlaketours@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment
Rain or shine, Earth is our home. Join us to delve into the fascinating world of weather and climate! Learn about the importance of protecting green spaces and teaching others about water conservation as we navigate Earth’s changing climate. 

This series of classes is perfect for students curious about science and the natural world. It is designed for K-12th grades to get outside and experience nature firsthand. Homeschool students are encouraged to register!

Pre-registration is required. Tickets are $10/person; children 2 and under are free. An adult must accompany children, and tickets are required for both children and adults.

Details & tickets: http://outdooracademy.meadowswater.org/
Click here for more information
more about event
Location:
201 San Marcos Springs Drive, San Marcos, Texas 78666
Cost:
$10/person; children 2 and under are free
Contact:
Spring Lake Educational Tour Office,
springlaketours@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment
Rain or shine, Earth is our home. Join us to delve into the fascinating world of weather and climate! Learn about the importance of protecting green spaces and teaching others about water conservation as we navigate Earth’s changing climate. 

This series of classes is perfect for students curious about science and the natural world. It is designed for K-12th grades to get outside and experience nature firsthand. Homeschool students are encouraged to register!

Pre-registration is required. Tickets are $10/person; children 2 and under are free. An adult must accompany children, and tickets are required for both children and adults.

Details & tickets: http://outdooracademy.meadowswater.org/
Click here for more information
more about event

Location:
201 San Marcos Springs, San Marcos TX 78666
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Spring Lake Education Office,
springlaketours@txstate.edu
512.245.7540
Campus Sponsor:
The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment
Winter is the perfect time to take your family out to enjoy the crisp cool air. For our final Family Fun Day of 2024, we will create treasures to decorate your home during the holiday season. Stay warm and enjoy hot chocolate at Spring Lake! This event is free and open to the public. Learn more at familyfun.meadowswater.org. Click here for more information
more about event