Hinman Island Park
A 10-acre park on the Comal River, offering tubing, a playground, picnic areas, and the unique Tube Chute.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful river vibes
Hinman Island Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful river vibes
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 10-acre park on the Comal River, offering tubing, a playground, picnic areas, and the unique Tube Chute.
"This was a great place to access the river! So pretty too!"
💰 Parking & Fees
Be prepared for parking fees ($20-$33+) and potential charges for picnic tables. :moneybag:
🛟 Life Jackets Available
Life jackets are provided, making it a safer option for families with young children. :life_jacket:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Comal River Tubing
Comal River
Float down the refreshing Comal River, with access to the thrilling Tube Chute for added fun.
+1
Tube Chute
Comal River
A unique water slide experience perfect for families and thrill-seekers looking for a quick ride.
Playground & Picnic Areas
Park grounds
Enjoy family time with playgrounds, picnic tables, and BBQ pits for a complete outdoor experience.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking & Fees: Be Prepared
River Access & Activities
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💰 Parking & Fees
Be prepared for parking fees ($20-$33+) and potential charges for picnic tables. :moneybag:
🛟 Life Jackets Available
Life jackets are provided, making it a safer option for families with young children. :life_jacket:
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Fun
Great for kids with shallow areas and the Tube Chute. Peaceful river walks are also possible. :familywomanwomanboyboy:
🎣 Bass Fishing Spot
Known for bass fishing, especially near the park. Try baby brush hogs or chatterbaits. :fishingpoleand_line:
Tips
from all over the internet
💰 Parking & Fees
Be prepared for parking fees ($20-$33+) and potential charges for picnic tables. :moneybag:
🛟 Life Jackets Available
Life jackets are provided, making it a safer option for families with young children. :life_jacket:
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Fun
Great for kids with shallow areas and the Tube Chute. Peaceful river walks are also possible. :familywomanwomanboyboy:
🎣 Bass Fishing Spot
Known for bass fishing, especially near the park. Try baby brush hogs or chatterbaits. :fishingpoleand_line:
🐶 Pet-Friendly River Access
Dogs can enjoy the water too! Check park rules for pet policies.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Hinman Island Park offers fantastic Comal River access with family-friendly features like shallow areas and the Tube Chute. However, visitors frequently cite high parking and amenity fees as a major drawback, leading to mixed feelings about its value as a public park. Some also note issues with noise and the prevalence of marijuana smoke.
"I came here with my 1 year old and 5 year old. I love that there was an area that was shallow enough for the kids to play comfortably, as well as a deeper area for my husband and I to swim freely. They have life jackets available and a bathroom which was really nice. We went down the tube chute a few times too which was really fun to do with the littles since we didn’t want to float the whole river. This was a great place to access the river! So pretty too ! 😍"
Destiny Bridgmohan
"Clean, but the cost totally defeated everything about the park. Park clearly was not busy. Park Ranger aggressive when explained fees and trying to charge us for the extra $25 since we didnt know you have to pay just to sit next to your already paid table. First and last visit for sure.
For 1 day paid $70 for 1 picnic table, to sit around the picnic table off the concrete slab and parking per car.
To even get in the river with a float without floating down river is additional $2 plus another $2 for air to inflate
Each 10x10 area with or without a table is $25. Even if your sitting around your already paid picnic table its additional $25, because considered another possible reserved space.
Plus $20 for parking."
Claudia Castellanos
"Absolutely loved this place! Lots of fun water temp was very nice. Safe place for families with security walking around. Having access to life jackets was a bonus!"
Alexis Halling
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hinman Island Park is located at Hinman Island Dr, New Braunfels, TX 78130. It's easily accessible by car and is situated near other popular New Braunfels attractions like Schlitterbahn.
Public transportation options are limited. Most visitors arrive by car. Consider ride-sharing services if you prefer not to drive.
The park offers direct river access, making it convenient for tubing and swimming. The Tube Chute is a popular entry point for a quick ride.
Yes, Hinman Island Park is a popular day trip destination, located about an hour from both San Antonio and Austin, Texas. +1
The park is near Schlitterbahn Waterpark and other New Braunfels attractions, making it a great addition to a larger itinerary.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Parking fees can be substantial, ranging from $20 to $33+ during peak season. Additional fees may apply for picnic tables and river access.
While advance booking isn't typically required for general park entry, it's wise to check the official city website for any reservation needs, especially for large groups or during special events like Wurstfest.
Park hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official New Braunfels Parks and Recreation website for the most up-to-date operating hours.
Discounts are not widely advertised. Visitors have expressed concerns about the high cost for a public park.
You can bring your own float. If you need to inflate it, there's an additional fee. Rental options might be available nearby.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy tubing, swimming, picnicking, using the playground, and fishing. The Tube Chute offers a unique water slide experience. +1
Yes, it's very family-friendly with shallow river areas suitable for toddlers and a playground. Life jackets are available for added safety.
The park offers restrooms, picnic tables, and BBQ pits, making it convenient for a day out.
Yes, dogs are welcome at Hinman Island Park, allowing your furry friends to enjoy the river too.
The Comal River is generally known for its clear, cool waters. Visitors often describe it as very nice and refreshing.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The park has picnic tables and BBQ pits, encouraging visitors to bring their own food. There are no on-site restaurants, but New Braunfels has many dining options nearby.
Yes, bringing your own food and drinks is encouraged, especially for picnics. Alcohol policies should be checked with park regulations.
The park offers numerous picnic tables and BBQ pits scattered throughout, providing ample space for groups to gather and dine.
New Braunfels has a vibrant food scene with many restaurants offering various cuisines. You can find everything from casual eateries to German-inspired fare.
Yes, BBQ pits are available, making it a great spot for grilling and enjoying an outdoor meal.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the scenic Comal River, the unique Tube Chute, families enjoying the water, and the lush park surroundings. Sunrise and sunset can offer beautiful light.
Drone usage is typically restricted in public parks to ensure safety and privacy. Check with the New Braunfels Parks and Recreation department for specific regulations.
Early mornings offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing serene river scenes. Late afternoons can also provide beautiful golden hour light.
The Tube Chute, the bridges over the Comal River, and the general riverbanks with people tubing are popular subjects.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive river and park views. A waterproof camera or phone case is advisable if you plan to get close to the water.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 The availability of life jackets is a huge plus for safety. Don't miss the Tube Chute for a fun, short ride the kids will love! Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as the park has picnic tables and BBQ pits. Be prepared for parking fees, which can add up, but many find the family-friendly amenities and river access make it worthwhile.
💰 Budget Travelers
To save money, consider visiting on a weekday when crowds might be smaller, and research the latest fee structure beforehand. Bringing your own food and drinks is essential, as on-site options are limited. If parking costs are prohibitive, explore nearby areas for potentially cheaper or free parking, but factor in the walking distance.
🎣 Anglers
Be prepared for potentially challenging fishing conditions, as the fish are reportedly accustomed to a variety of baits. Enjoy the scenic river setting while you cast your line.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Comal River Experience
+1Many TikTok and Instagram creators showcase the joy of river floating, highlighting the relaxed atmosphere and the scenic beauty of the Texas Hill Country.
While the river is a major draw, be aware that it can get crowded, particularly on weekends and holidays. Some reviews mention noise from loud music and speakers, which can detract from the peaceful experience for some. For those interested in fishing, the Comal River near Hinman Island Park is known for bass. Reddit users suggest specific baits like baby brush hogs and chatterbaits for successful angling.
Understanding Park Fees and Value
This pricing structure has led to mixed reviews, with some visitors feeling it's excessive for a public park and detracts from its accessibility.
It's crucial for potential visitors to research current fee structures before arriving to manage expectations and budget accordingly. Community discussions on Reddit highlight the frustration some feel about the perceived 'greed' and 'price gouging' of public spaces.
Family Fun and Accessibility
+1The availability of life jackets is a significant plus for parents, offering peace of mind while children enjoy the water.
The Tube Chute is also a hit with families, providing a fun, contained water slide experience without needing to float the entire river. While the park offers a great experience, accessibility for those with mobility issues or who cannot afford the higher parking fees can be a concern, as the nearest free parking might be a mile away.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit