If you’re craving a peaceful getaway filled with natural beauty, winding roads, and riverside charm, a scenic river road trip from San Antonio is the perfect escape. This region of Texas is blessed with flowing rivers, tree-shaded highways, and small towns that capture the soul of Hill Country. Whether you’re a couple looking for a romantic drive, a family in search of picnic spots, or a solo traveler ready for reflection by the water, these river road routes deliver on tranquility and charm.
In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey along San Antonio’s most scenic rivers — from the Guadalupe to the Medina — featuring must-stop viewpoints, parks, food stops, and places to stay. Nature lovers, it’s time to hit the road.
Why River Road Trips Near San Antonio Are So Special
River roads combine the best parts of driving and nature: shaded curves, water views, and gentle breezes that make every mile more memorable. San Antonio’s proximity to several major Texas rivers — the Guadalupe, Medina, and San Marcos among them — means you’re never far from a scenic loop or relaxing shoreline.
Along these routes, you’ll pass through limestone canyons, cypress groves, vineyards, state parks, and vintage Texas towns. With plenty of places to stop and hike, float, picnic, or just take a breath, these river road trips offer more than just a drive — they offer a soul-soothing escape.
Top Scenic River Road Trips Around San Antonio
1. River Road – New Braunfels to Canyon Lake
One of Texas’ most iconic scenic drives, River Road hugs the Guadalupe River for 10 miles of pure beauty. With towering cypress trees, riverside cabins, and gentle curves, this route is a favorite for floaters and road trippers alike.
Address: River Road, New Braunfels, TX 78132
Hours: Open 24/7
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Shaded river views, float tube outfitters, and peaceful drives
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Arrive early on weekends to avoid tubing traffic and enjoy a quiet drive.
2. Medina River Loop – Bandera to Medina
Starting in Bandera — the Cowboy Capital of the World — this scenic loop follows the Medina River through rolling hills and farmland. Expect charming bridges, low-water crossings, and great picnic stops by the riverbanks.
Address: TX-173 to FM 337, Bandera to Medina, TX
Hours: Open 24/7
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Peaceful country roads, horseback riders, and scenic water dips
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Stop at Bandera City Park or Love Creek Orchards for a riverside break.
3. San Marcos River Drive – Martindale to Luling
Follow the San Marcos River through quiet towns like Martindale, Staples, and Prairie Lea before reaching Luling. It’s a peaceful, offbeat drive with chances to see turtles, kayakers, and wildflowers.
Address: FM 1979 to FM 20 to US-80, Martindale to Luling, TX
Hours: Open 24/7
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Clear water springs, kayaking spots, and roadside pecan groves
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Bring a picnic and enjoy Zedler Mill Park in Luling — it’s historic and scenic.
4. Frio River Route – Leakey to Garner State Park
Though farther from San Antonio, the Frio River drive is worth every mile. From Leakey down to Concan, the road follows the Frio through canyons and parkland. Ideal for summer floating and fall foliage drives.
Address: US-83 to CR 350, Leakey to Concan, TX
Hours: Open 24/7
Approx Cost: Free (State Park Entry: $8)
Famous For: Crystal-clear water, limestone bluffs, and Garner State Park views
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Plan your trip around sunset at the park — it’s one of the best in Texas.
5. Guadalupe River North Fork – Hunt to Kerrville
This winding drive in West Kerr County is one of the most underrated scenic routes in Texas. You’ll follow the North Fork of the Guadalupe River, which glows emerald green in spring and fall. Fewer crowds, postcard views.
Address: FM 1340, Hunt to Kerrville, TX
Hours: Open 24/7
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Quiet hill roads, river views, and the Stonehenge II roadside art
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Pack a lunch and stop at Schumacher Crossing — it’s a hidden gem.
Packing Tips for a River Road Adventure
- Water shoes or sandals for spontaneous river stops
- Reusable water bottles and eco-friendly cooler
- Lightweight picnic blanket and folding chairs
- Bug spray and reef-safe sunscreen
- Swimsuits and towels
- First-aid kit and waterproof phone case
- Camera or drone for capturing river views
- Offline maps — cell signal is spotty in rural areas
- Change of clothes if tubing or swimming
- Trash bags — leave no trace at river stops
Food & Drink Stops Near Scenic River Routes
1. Gristmill River Restaurant – Gruene, TX
Located near River Road, this iconic riverside restaurant serves hearty Texas comfort food with views of the Guadalupe River.
Address: 1287 Gruene Rd, New Braunfels, TX 78130
Hours: Daily, 11 AM – 10 PM
Approx Cost: $15–$30
Famous For: Chicken fried steak and patio dining under oak trees
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Arrive before sunset to grab a river-view table.
2. OST Restaurant – Bandera, TX
A cowboy-themed diner with saddle barstools and massive breakfast plates, perfect for refueling after a Medina River drive.
Address: 305 Main St, Bandera, TX 78003
Hours: Daily, 7 AM – 9 PM
Approx Cost: $10–$20
Famous For: Western memorabilia and country breakfast fare
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Check out the John Wayne Room while you wait.
3. 1011 Bistro – Kerrville, TX
Elegant dining with a riverside patio view, great for winding down after a scenic drive along the Guadalupe River.
Address: 1011 Guadalupe St, Kerrville, TX 78028
Hours: Tues–Sat, 5 PM – 9 PM
Approx Cost: $25–$45
Famous For: Texas Hill Country fine dining with a French twist
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Reserve outdoor seating for river views during golden hour.
Riverside Accommodations for Road Trippers
1. River Bluff Cabins – Rio Frio, TX
Cabins perched above the Frio River with private access and stunning views — great for couples, families, or solo escapes.
Address: 389 Cooper Mountain Rd, Rio Frio, TX 78879
Hours: Check-in 3 PM, Check-out 11 AM
Approx Cost: $150–$250
Famous For: Private river access and Hill Country seclusion
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Book well in advance during summer and fall weekends.
2. Gruene River Hotel & Retreat – New Braunfels, TX
An adults-only boutique hotel right on the Guadalupe River — ideal for peaceful relaxation after your River Road drive.
Address: 1235 Gruene Rd, New Braunfels, TX 78130
Hours: Check-in 3 PM, Check-out 11 AM
Approx Cost: $200–$350
Famous For: Riverside romance and walkability to Gruene Hall
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Request a river-view balcony room — they’re worth it.
3. Medina Highpoint Resort – Medina, TX
Located just off the scenic Medina River loop, this resort offers hilltop cabins, RV sites, and panoramic sunset views.
Address: 23195 TX-16 N, Medina, TX 78055
Hours: 24/7
Approx Cost: $120–$220
Famous For: Scenic hilltop stays with dark sky stargazing
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Great home base for exploring nearby rivers and hiking trails.
Local Tips for River Road Tripping
- Watch for low-water crossings after heavy rains — roads may close
- Bring cash for small-town gas stations or park entries
- Respect private land — many riverbanks are not public
- Mornings and weekdays offer the most peaceful drives
- Avoid littering — bring reusable containers and trash bags
- Visit in spring or fall for the best scenery and temperatures
- Stay overnight to fully enjoy the natural surroundings
- Ask locals for hidden swimming holes — they often know the best spots
- Drive slowly and enjoy the ride — wildlife crossings are common
- Bring a wide-brim hat — shade helps at midday stops
Final Conclusion
Scenic river road trips around San Antonio offer something more than just miles and maps — they offer stillness, discovery, and connection with the land. Whether you’re floating beneath cypress trees, picnicking beside spring-fed waters, or driving with your windows down through winding canyons, these routes are a tribute to the natural beauty of Texas.
So take the backroads, follow the river’s curve, and let San Antonio’s river trails remind you why the best adventures flow at their own pace.
