Outdoor gear rentals in Austin, Texas are the key to unlocking unforgettable adventures across the state. Whether you’re paddling on Lady Bird Lake, biking through Barton Creek Greenbelt, or camping in the Hill Country, Austin offers easy access to the great outdoors—and the gear to make it happen. For travelers flying in, road tripping, or simply trying to pack light, renting gear is a smart and affordable way to stay equipped without the bulk.
Austin’s thriving outdoor scene is backed by a wide range of vendors that offer clean, reliable, and road trip–friendly rentals. From high-performance bikes to family-friendly paddleboards and full camping kits, these businesses make it easy to enjoy nature without owning a closet full of equipment. With flexible pickup options, expert staff, and equipment suited for Texas terrain, these rentals are perfect for both beginners and seasoned adventurers.
Why rent outdoor gear in Austin for your road trip?
Central location for Hill Country and statewide adventures
Vendors offer flexible booking and delivery options
High-quality gear for hiking, biking, paddling, and camping
Ideal for solo travelers, families, and outdoor groups
Top 10 Outdoor Gear Rentals in Austin Road Trippers
1. REI Co-op Rentals
REI’s Austin location provides top-tier outdoor gear rentals backed by the brand’s national reputation for quality and service. Whether you’re planning a weekend hike through the Barton Creek Greenbelt or an overnight camping trip in Pedernales Falls, REI has you covered with everything from tents and sleeping bags to backpacks and stoves. The gear is meticulously maintained and designed for performance, giving road trippers confidence in every rental.
In addition to gear, REI offers expert staff guidance, route suggestions, and a seamless booking process through their website. Pickup is quick and easy at their central location, and REI members enjoy discounts on rental fees. It’s a convenient one-stop option for road trippers looking to start their adventure with gear that’s clean, organized, and trail-ready.
Key Features:
High-quality camping, hiking, and outdoor gear
Online reservations and in-store pickup
REI member discounts on rentals
Expert local staff for gear and trail advice
Clean, professionally maintained equipment
Convenient central Austin location
Gear includes tents, stoves, backpacks, and more
Address: 601 N Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78703
For More Info: Visit Website
2. Zilker Park Boat Rentals
Zilker Park Boat Rentals is one of Austin’s most iconic outdoor vendors, offering kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards right from the banks of Barton Creek near Lady Bird Lake. Operating since the 1960s, this family-run business has long been a local favorite for spontaneous outdoor fun. There’s no reservation required—just show up, grab a paddle, and enjoy scenic views of downtown Austin from the water.
Perfect for both tourists and locals, Zilker Park Boat Rentals is affordable, beginner-friendly, and centrally located within Zilker Park. With life jackets and safety gear included, this rental spot makes it easy for road trippers to park, paddle, and relax without hauling equipment to the lake.
Key Features:
Kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards for rent
Walk-up rentals — no reservations needed
Located within Zilker Park near downtown
Great for families, couples, and solo travelers
Hourly and daily rates available
Life vests and paddles included
Quick access to Lady Bird Lake views
Address: 2201 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78746
For More Info: Visit Website
3. Peace Paddling
Peace Paddling is a mobile kayak and paddleboard rental service offering gear delivery to popular lakes and rivers throughout Austin and the Texas Hill Country. This is the perfect choice for road trippers staying at an Airbnb, lakeside cabin, or campground who want equipment brought directly to their location. The gear is well-maintained, and their friendly team provides setup help, safety tips, and flexible pickup options.
Their rentals include single and tandem kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and accessories like dry bags and life jackets. Peace Paddling is known for customer service and ease of use—book online, choose a location, and your gear will be there when you arrive. Ideal for travelers heading out of the city or those who prefer convenience over crowds.
Key Features:
Mobile delivery to Austin and surrounding areas
Kayaks, paddleboards, and accessory rentals
Easy online booking system
Flexible delivery/pickup times
Ideal for campers and vacation rentals
Friendly, helpful staff and setup support
Multi-day and weekend rentals available
Address: 5401 E Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Austin, TX 78721
For More Info: Visit Website
4. Austin Bike Farm
Austin Bike Farm is a local favorite for bike rentals, offering a variety of well-maintained bikes including hybrids, mountain bikes, cruisers, and road bikes. Conveniently located near Central Austin, it gives travelers fast access to scenic routes like Shoal Creek Trail and the Southern Walnut Creek Greenbelt. Their bikes are tuned and ready to go, and each rental includes a helmet, lock, and basic safety gear.
Ideal for road trippers who want to explore the city or hit the trails, Austin Bike Farm offers flexible rental durations, helpful staff, and even group or family rental setups. The shop also handles repairs and tune-ups, making it a reliable stop for travelers who need gear on the go.
Key Features:
Wide range of bike types available
Helmet, lock, and safety gear included
Affordable hourly, daily, and weekend rates
Centrally located with trail access nearby
Great for solo riders, families, or groups
Locally owned with personal service
Repairs and tune-ups offered onsite
Address: 5015 Duval St, Austin, TX 78751
For More Info: Visit Website
5. Hill Country Outdoor Store
Hill Country Outdoor Store caters specifically to camping, hiking, and backpacking enthusiasts. Located in South Austin, this locally owned outfitter offers everything from tents and sleeping bags to hydration systems and trekking poles. Their gear is curated for Texas terrain, especially Hill Country adventures like Enchanted Rock, Garner State Park, or Lost Maples.
The store is known for friendly service and knowledgeable staff who help with gear selection and even route advice. Rentals are available for short or extended trips, and many packages are designed for families or first-time campers. If you’re planning a state park weekend or a longer road trip through nature, this is a great place to start.
Key Features:
Full hiking and camping gear kits available
Staff provides trail tips and packing advice
Ideal for Hill Country terrain and state parks
Family-sized and solo gear packages
Fair pricing with multi-day discounts
Located near major highways for easy pickup
Clean, ready-to-use equipment
Address: 2301 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704
For More Info: Visit Website
6. Austin Kayak
Austin Kayak, part of the ACK brand, offers serious paddling and outdoor gear for adventurers seeking top-tier equipment. Their inventory includes single and tandem kayaks, camping stoves, YETI coolers, dry bags, and rooftop transport kits—perfect for travelers planning excursions beyond the city. It’s a trusted source for those heading to the Colorado River, Lake Travis, or Inks Lake State Park.
With expert staff and online booking, Austin Kayak makes gear pickup simple. Their gear is performance-oriented, and many items are also available for purchase after rental. If you’re a road tripper planning a paddle-heavy or multi-day trip, this outfitter delivers everything you need.
Key Features:
Premium kayaks and outdoor gear
Large inventory of accessories and camping items
Rentals include transport kits for vehicles
Great for long-distance and state park trips
Option to purchase rental gear after use
Clean, high-performance equipment
Friendly staff and fast service
Address: 5400 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78745
For More Info: Visit Website
7. Live Love Paddle
Live Love Paddle is one of Austin’s most beloved paddle outfitters, located along Lady Bird Lake. Known for their iconic bat-watching kayak tours under the Congress Avenue Bridge, they also offer self-guided kayak and paddleboard rentals for travelers looking to explore Austin’s waterfront at their own pace. With easy access to the water, it’s a fantastic option for both first-timers and experienced paddlers.
Their team provides everything needed, including paddles, life jackets, and safety guidance. Bookings can be made online, and their flexible rental times make it easy to fit into a road trip schedule. For those looking to enjoy Austin’s natural beauty from the water, Live Love Paddle offers one of the city’s most scenic outdoor experiences.
Key Features:
Self-guided kayak and paddleboard rentals
Famous evening bat-viewing kayak tours
Located directly on Lady Bird Lake
Online reservations and walk-ins welcome
Gear includes life jackets and paddles
Family- and pet-friendly services
Knowledgeable, safety-focused staff
Address: 1610 E Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78741
For More Info: Visit Website
8. Velo View Bike Rentals
Velo View is a premium bike rental provider specializing in high-performance road and gravel bikes. Perfect for serious cyclists visiting Austin, this shop offers carbon-frame bikes, pro fittings, and delivery directly to your hotel or Airbnb. Riders can also request accessories like power meters, GPS units, and extra hydration kits—making it a top choice for competitive riders or fitness-focused road trippers.
The team at Velo View provides expert setup, route suggestions, and mechanical support, ensuring your ride is tailored to your skill level and trip goals. For those planning rides along the Dam Loop or longer Hill Country routes, this is one of the best options for serious gear and service.
Key Features:
Carbon-frame road and gravel bikes
Custom fittings and pro-level accessories
Bike delivery and pickup to any location
Ideal for long-distance and competitive cyclists
GPS, pedals, and hydration gear included
Personalized service from expert cyclists
Cleaned, tuned, and ready-to-ride bikes
Address: 7801 N Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78752
For More Info: Visit Website
9. Texas Rowing Center
Located on the west side of Lady Bird Lake, the Texas Rowing Center offers one of the widest selections of paddling and rowing equipment in Austin. In addition to traditional kayaks and paddleboards, they also rent rowing shells for fitness-focused travelers or experienced rowers. The center is known for its clean equipment, knowledgeable staff, and smooth rental process right on the water.
Open year-round, Texas Rowing Center is ideal for road trippers who want to enjoy Austin’s lakefront without the need for transport or logistics. Rentals are available by the hour or day, and lessons are also offered for beginners. It’s one of the few places in the city where you can row competitively or simply paddle for fun.
Key Features:
Paddleboards, kayaks, and rowing shells
Onsite rentals right on Lady Bird Lake
Hourly and full-day rental options
Lessons available for beginners
Fitness-focused gear and clean fleet
Open year-round, including weekends
No transportation required
Address: 1541 W Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX 78703
For More Info: Visit Website
10. Ruckify Outdoor Rentals (Austin Network)
Ruckify brings the peer-to-peer rental model to Austin’s outdoor scene, allowing locals to rent gear directly to travelers. Whether you need a tent, cooler, hiking poles, or a full camping setup, Ruckify offers flexible options through verified community members. Many listings include delivery, and prices are often more affordable than traditional retailers.
This option is perfect for road trippers looking for budget-friendly solutions or gear that’s harder to find elsewhere. Ruckify’s user-review system and insurance protections make the process trustworthy and easy. It’s also a great choice for last-minute needs when rental shops are fully booked.
Key Features:
Peer-to-peer outdoor gear rental network
Wide range of listings: tents, coolers, stoves, kayaks
Budget-friendly and locally sourced
Delivery and meet-up options available
Verified users and secure booking
Great for unique or hard-to-find gear
Convenient for last-minute rentals
Address: Varies by listing, Austin-wide
For More Info: Visit Website
How to Choose the Best Outdoor Gear Rental for Your Road Trip
Match the Service to Your Travel Needs
Every road trip is different, and so are your outdoor gear needs. Some travelers are looking for a relaxing day of paddleboarding, while others are gearing up for a multi-day camping adventure. Austin’s vendors cater to all these possibilities, but it’s important to match the right gear to your travel style. Solo travelers may prefer compact, easy-to-carry gear, while families might need larger setups with safety add-ons and kid-sized equipment. Couples or small groups may want tandem kayaks or larger tents for comfort.
Before choosing a vendor, consider:
Are you planning short-term use or multi-day rentals?
Do you need gear for water, land, or both?
Will you pick up the gear, or do you need delivery?
Are you traveling with kids, pets, or a large group?
Do you need beginner-friendly gear or performance-grade equipment?
Compare Services and Support
Not all rental experiences are equal. While gear quality is essential, the service behind it can make or break your adventure. Start by reading online reviews—look for consistent praise about cleanliness, ease of booking, and customer support. Some vendors offer online reservations, delivery services, and on-site tutorials, which are especially helpful for out-of-town travelers. Others may include safety equipment, maps, or local travel tips that add real value to your experience.
What to compare across vendors:
Online booking and availability
Gear condition, cleanliness, and quality
Inclusions: safety gear, instructions, accessories
Delivery, pickup, or on-site options
Cancellation and damage policies
Customer reviews for support and reliability
Final Thoughts on Finding Outdoor Gear Rentals in Austin
Renting outdoor gear in Austin gives road trippers a major advantage: the freedom to explore Texas without hauling bulky equipment. Whether you’re here for a weekend of kayaking on Lady Bird Lake, biking through greenbelts, or camping under Hill Country stars, local vendors make it simple to get what you need. With high-quality gear, flexible rentals, and expert guidance, Austin’s outdoor rental scene is both reliable and road trip–friendly.
What sets Austin apart is the diversity of options—national brands, family-run shops, mobile delivery services, and even peer-to-peer platforms. No matter your travel style, you’ll find a vendor that fits. The key is to plan ahead, compare services, and choose based on your destination and activity. When you rent from trusted local providers, you get more than just gear—you get peace of mind and the tools to make your adventure unforgettable.
