Safety & Links
Our favorite tools for planning a safe day on Texas water.
Paddle smart
- Check flows before you drive. Many Texas rivers are natural, undammed rivers. A big rain upstream can turn a lazy float into fast, debris-filled water. Look up the nearest USGS gauge.
- Wear a properly fitted life jacket — not just carry one.
- Watch for snags and strainers. Downed trees are a common hazard on Texas rivers, at both high and low water.
- File a float plan. Tell someone where you’re putting in, taking out and when you’ll be back. Cell service can be spotty on remote stretches.
- Stay on public water. On navigable rivers you may use the streambed and portage around hazards, but leaving the riverbed onto private banks without permission can be trespassing.
- Pack it out. Bring a trash bag and leave every sandbar cleaner than you found it.
- Respect the wildlife. Give alligators, snakes and nesting birds plenty of room.
Favorite links
- Texas Paddling Trails (TPWD)Official maps and access info for 80+ trails statewide.
- TPWD Paddling Events CalendarRanger-led paddles and classes at Texas state parks.
- USGS Water DataReal-time river flow and gauge height — check before every trip.
- National Weather ServiceForecasts and river flood warnings for your area.
- Texas Conservation AllianceConservation news, guided trips and trail guides.
- TPWD Boating SafetyTexas boating laws, life jacket rules and education courses.
- American Canoe AssociationPaddling instruction, safety education and certified instructors.