Victoria Paddling Trail - Riverside Park

Victoria Paddling Trail

This 4.2 mile stretch of the Guadalupe River in the Coastal Region is a slower moving river that is bordered by scenic soft banks rather than the limestone bluffs of the Hill Country. This quiet reach can be paddled in 1-3 hours depending on flow rates.

Getting There

Put-in:

Boat Ramp - Riverside Park
GPS coordinates 28° 49' 28.5" N, 97° 00' 55.0" W

Take-out:

The Old Pumping Station - Riverside Park
GPS coordinates 28° 48' 21.0" N, 97° 00' 59.5" W

The put-in for this paddling trail is located in Riverside Park. Access the park from Hwy 87 (Main Street), turn west onto Magnolia Street, go one block to 4-way stop sign, proceed straight into Riverside Park. Travel 1/2 mile and look for boat ramp on right side. Ample parking is available.

The take-out point is also in Riverside Park. It is located at the southern end of the park. Access this site from Hwy 87 to Red River Street. Turn west on Red River. Go to the 4-way stop sign (Red River & Vine) and proceed straight ahead. Go to Next stop sign ( you are in Riverside Park) at Red River and Memorial. Turn left onto Memorial and go to the next stop sign (Memorial and McCright). Turn left on Memorial and go the next stop sign (Memorial & Young). Go straight ahead approximately 1/4 mile. Paddling Trail kiosk is on the right side by the parking area.

Distance from nearest major cities:

  • Corpus Christi - 84 miles
  • San Antonio - 112 miles
  • San Marcos - 102 miles
  • Austin - 121 miles
  • Houston - 122 miles
  • Laredo - 187 miles
  • Killeen - 144 miles
  • College Station - 149 miles
  • Waco - 199 miles
  • Dallas - 293 miles

Map

Area map of Victoria Paddling Trail

Trail Description and Landmarks

Trail Length: ~4.2 miles
Float Time: 1-3 hours (depending on water levels and flow rates)

The Guadalupe River in the Coastal Region is a slower moving river that is bordered by scenic soft banks rather than the limestone bluffs of the Hill Country. This trail is a quiet reach, with several small riffles (fast flowing, shallow water). The presence of occasional sandbars may provide resting or birdwatching sites. Although there are no man-made obstructions on this reach, there may be snags to avoid at times, especially when water levels are low.

Fishing

This section of the river supports numerous catfish, bass, and sunfish (perch). Small lures such as jigs, plastic worms, spinner baits and light-line are recommended.

Wildlife and Ecology


Photo Credit: Fain Zimmerman The Guadalupe River corridor supports a diversity of plants and animals. It is a premier birding destination with a variety of migratory species visiting the area. Sightings include bald eagles, osprey, egrets, herons, kingfishers, hawks, sandpipers, phoebes, and turkeys. You will see native cypress, oak, and pecan trees, as well as many non-native tree and plant species. Common wildlife encountered are deer, armadillos, and squirrels.

Private Property

Respect private property by not trespassing or littering and keeping noise levels down. This river is classified as navigable, which permits public use of the streambed and, if necessary, the banks to portage any hazard. Any other use of private river banks without permission of the landowner can be considered trespassing. Under Texas Penal Code (§30.05), criminal trespass occurs when one enters property after receiving notice not to enter. Notice includes verbal notice, a fence, sign(s), purple paint on posts or trees, or the visible presence of crops grown for human consumption.

Events & Attractions

For more information please see the TPWD Paddling Events calendar.

Visit Historic Downtown Victoria

- where Texas history began

Within Riverside Park

  • Riverside Golf Course - 27 beautiful holes of fun
  • Riverside Disc Golf Course - One of the most challenging courses you will ever play
  • Texas Zoo - Visit the wild side of Victoria
  • Riverside Park Memorial Rose Garden - 1,300 blooming roses
  • Over 100 picturesque picnic sites in Riverside Park - Riverside Park Playground and trails to keep you occupied

Partnership

This trail was made possible through a partnership between Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority, and the City of Victoria.

Shuttles & Rentals

Austin Canoe and Kayak

Rent kayaks, canoes, and standup paddleboards by the day to take anywhere you want, when you want. Locations in Austin, Houston and the San Marcos/New Braunfels area. For more information, visit http://www.austinkayak.com/rentals.php

REI (Recreational Equipment, Inc.)

Rent kayaks, canoes, paddles, and PFDs (personal flotation devices) 7 days a week at your nearest REI co-op.
For the closest Texas store, visit http://www.rei.com/FindStores?state=TX&radius=900

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