Beer Drinking On Guadalupe River: What's Allowed?

Texas is known for its scorching summers, and one of the best ways to beat the heat is to go tubing on the Guadalupe River. While drinking beer while floating down the river is a beloved tradition for many, there are some rules and regulations in place that you should be aware of before you go. In this article, we will answer the question Can people drink beer on the Guadalupe River? and provide you with all the information you need to know about alcohol regulations on the Guadalupe River. So grab your tube and a cold one, and let's dive in!

Alcohol is allowed on the Guadalupe River, but only in non-disposable containers

Drinking alcohol on the Guadalupe River is permitted, but only if it's in a non-disposable container. This means that single-use containers, such as plastic water bottles, beer cans, and plastic bags, are prohibited. The ban on disposable containers was introduced by the City of New Braunfels to address the issue of littering along the river, which has resulted in tens of thousands of pounds of trash being left behind by rivergoers each year.

While alcohol is allowed on the river, there are a few specific rules regarding drinking and the containers used that must be followed. Firstly, glass containers are strictly prohibited on all Texas rivers, as broken glass is dangerous for bare feet and can cause injuries. Additionally, Styrofoam is not allowed on the Guadalupe River, as it breaks easily and can pollute the river.

When tubing on the Guadalupe River, it's important to be mindful of other general rules and regulations. These include no littering, no jumping from bridges, dams, or trees, and the recommendation to wear life jackets for children under eight and weak or non-swimmers.

It's worth noting that the rules for the Guadalupe River may vary depending on whether you are within the city limits of New Braunfels or outside of them. For example, when outside the city limits, there are no restrictions on cooler size, while within the city limits, coolers must be 30 quarts or smaller and have a locking mechanism.

While enjoying a drink on the Guadalupe River, it's crucial to prioritize safety and follow all the relevant rules and regulations. By doing so, you can help ensure that everyone has a pleasant and safe experience on the river.

Glass containers are not permitted on the river

While drinking alcohol is permitted on the Guadalupe River, glass containers are not allowed. This is a statewide rule in Texas, and for good reason. Broken glass is dangerous for bare feet and can cause serious injuries. It is also hazardous to wildlife and the environment.

The rule prohibiting glass containers on the river also extends to Styrofoam. Styrofoam is strictly outlawed on the Guadalupe River and may be banned on other rivers in Texas. This is because foam breaks too easily and can pollute the river. After the first set of rapids, a Styrofoam cooler will break apart, and its contents will be lost.

So, what are your options for containers on the Guadalupe River? Well, you can use non-disposable containers such as flasks, wineskins, thermoses, Tupperware, and tumblers. These containers must be reusable and cannot be made from glass or Styrofoam.

In addition to the glass container rule, there are a few other things to keep in mind when drinking on the Guadalupe River. Firstly, no containers smaller than 5 fluid ounces are allowed. This rule is aimed at stopping people from bringing "jello shots" onto the river, which have been a source of littering complaints. Secondly, coolers of any size are permitted outside of the city limits of New Braunfels, but within the city limits, coolers must be 16 quarts or smaller.

By following these rules, you can enjoy a drink responsibly and safely while floating down the Guadalupe River.

No styrofoam is allowed on the river

If you're planning a trip to the Guadalupe River, it's important to be aware of the rules and regulations that are in place to ensure everyone's safety and the preservation of the environment. One such regulation is the prohibition of styrofoam on the river. Here are some detailed explanations and instructions regarding this rule:

Styrofoam, also known as polystyrene, is a type of plastic that has been widely recognised as a hazardous substance. Its production and disposal contribute significantly to environmental and health issues. When polystyrene breaks down, it releases toxic chemicals, including styrene and benzene, which can contaminate the water and harm both human health and the natural ecosystem. Therefore, to protect the river's delicate balance and those who enjoy its waters, no styrofoam is allowed on the Guadalupe River.

This rule is part of the broader regulations that apply to all rivers in Texas, which include prohibitions on glass and littering. The presence of broken glass in the water can lead to dangerous situations, and littering of any kind, including styrofoam, can have detrimental effects on the environment and wildlife. By leaving these items behind, you not only spoil the natural beauty of the river but also endanger other people and animals who use it.

When it comes to coolers, it's important to opt for more durable and environmentally friendly alternatives. Instead of styrofoam, bring a cooler made from hard plastic or another sturdy material that can withstand the conditions of the river. These alternatives will keep your beverages cold and secure while also ensuring that you're complying with the river's regulations. Remember, disposable items like styrofoam coolers are not designed to last and will likely break apart, leading to both a loss of your items and pollution in the river.

Additionally, it's worth noting that the rules regarding styrofoam may vary depending on your location. While styrofoam is prohibited on the Comal and Guadalupe rivers, the regulations outside of these specific areas could differ. Always be sure to check the local rules and regulations before your trip to ensure you're complying with the law and respecting the natural environment.

By following these instructions and adhering to the "No Styrofoam" rule, you're doing your part to keep the Guadalupe River clean and safe for everyone, including the local wildlife. Remember, it's our collective responsibility to care for the environment and leave these natural spaces in a better condition than we found them.

No containers smaller than 5 fluid ounces are permitted

While alcohol is allowed on the Guadalupe River, there are some rules that must be followed to avoid a ticket, fine, or arrest. One of these rules is that no containers smaller than 5 fluid ounces are permitted. This rule is aimed at stopping people from bringing "jello shots" onto the river, which are typically brought in small 1-2 ounce plastic containers with lids. These containers have been a source of littering complaints, and since the river is near Texas State University, it has been known to host college students who enjoy consuming jello shots.

The rule about container size is specific to the Guadalupe River and is not a statewide rule in Texas. It is important to note that this rule only applies to the parts of the Guadalupe River that are within the city limits of New Braunfels. When floating the river outside of these city limits, there are no restrictions on cooler size, and coolers of any size are permitted.

It is crucial to follow the rules and regulations for river tubing in Texas, including the specific rules for the Guadalupe River. Glass containers, styrofoam, littering, and jumping from bridges, dams, trees, or cliffs are prohibited. Life jackets are recommended for children under eight and weak or non-swimmers, and tubing is not allowed when the river flow is above 1,200cfs due to safety concerns.

By following these rules and regulations, individuals can safely enjoy their time on the Guadalupe River while respecting the environment and those around them.

When the river flow is above 1200cfs, tubing is not allowed

Drinking alcohol is permitted on the Guadalupe River, but there are rules in place to regulate drinking and ensure safety. When the river flow is above 1200cfs, tubing is not allowed and only rafting is permitted. This is because when the river flow is this high, it becomes too dangerous for tubing, with over 1200 cubic feet of water rushing through any given point in the river every second.

The Guadalupe River is a popular destination for tubing and other water activities, such as kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding, and swimming. The river is known for its beauty, with limestone cliffs and root-exposed cypress trees lining its meandering banks. A typical float down the river can take anywhere from 2 to 5 hours, depending on various factors such as the speed of the current and the number of people in your party.

There are several rules and regulations in place for river tubing in Texas, and some specific to the Guadalupe River. In addition to the general rules—no glass, no styrofoam, no littering, no jumping from bridges/dams/trees/cliffs, life jacket recommendations, and compliance with state law—the Guadalupe River has a couple of additional regulations. Firstly, tubing is prohibited when the river flow surpasses 1200cfs, and secondly, no open plastic containers of 5 fluid ounces or less are allowed, specifically banning jello shots.

It is important to follow these rules and regulations to avoid any fines or arrests. Additionally, it is crucial to prioritize safety when engaging in water activities, especially in strong river flows.

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