Texas, the second largest state in the region, contains impressive waterways that provide recreation to native Texans and tourists around the world. Tourists and sportsmen frequent the waterways to fish and camp along Texas riverbanks, explore canyons in Big Bend National Park or rush down whitewater rapids. Experienced outdoorsmen respect the wonders and hazards of these historic rivers.
Rio Grande
The Rio Grande flows from the San Juan Mountains in Southern Colorado to the Gulf of Mexico in Brownsville, Texas. The most scenic portion of the Rio Grande lies in Big Bend National Park. The day trip along the Mariscal Canyon promises a day filled with luscious scenery and captivating limestone cliffs that reach a breathtaking 1,400 feet. Mariscal rapids rate a Class III depending on the weather conditions. Campers set up camp along the Class II rapids of the Boquillas Canyon or spend a five- to 10-day journey in the Lower Canyons. Navigational hazards include heat stroke and heat exhaustion during the summer and freezing temperatures in the winter. Animals along the Rio Grande include black bears, mountain lions, coyotes and snakes, all of which can pose serious hazards if provoked.
Red River
Red River, the second longest river in Texas, flows along the border of Texas and Oklahoma. The river derives its name from the red clay soil along its banks. A majority of the land on the banks of Red River remain barren and undeveloped. Snakes and quicksand produce the two main navigational hazards of the river; therefore, caution when walking along the riverbank is extremely important. Above Lake Texoma are safe paddling options; however, the lack of camping, boat rentals and shuttle service above the Texoma make this a trip for the experienced. The portion of the Red River below the Texoma tends to offer a safer alternative due to the absence of snakes and quicksand.
River Brazos
River Brazos runs 840 miles, beginning in Stonewall County, Texas, and empties into the Gulf of Mexico in Brazoria County. Paddlers enjoy a day on the River Brazos experiencing cliffs over 500 feet tall and plush vegetation on the banks. Strong southwest headwinds and the occasional alligator produce the biggest navigational hazard on this ribbon of water. Other hazards on the river include water moccasins, copperheads and rattlesnakes. While the weather along the river supplies an abundance of sunshine, plan trips accordingly to avoid long exposures to the sun, which could lead to sunburn and dehydration.
Colorado River
The Colorado River, the largest river entirely in Texas, runs 600 miles from the Texas-New Mexico border in Dawson County to the Gulf of Mexico at Matagorda Bay. Some portions of the Colorado River are impassable by paddlers due to low waters, dams and the remoteness of the area. However, the section of river in the Colorado Bend State Park serves as a popular paddling spot. Extended distances between access points coupled with sweltering heat create the largest navigational hazard for paddlers. Other hazards include strong headwinds, fire ants and the occasional snake. The Colorado River also serves as home to Highland Lakes near Austin, Bastrop State Park and Buescher State Park.
Neches River
The Neches Rivers flows 416 miles through East Texas and empties into the Gulf of Mexico at Port Neches. Plan a trip along the Neches carefully, as access is limited. Heavily wooded, steep and muddy riverbanks make the Neches virtually impassable in some areas. Novice paddlers and experienced fishers find the slow-moving waters beneficial in navigating and catching catfish and largemouth bass. Common navigational hazards include fallen logs and hot summer temperatures. Carry a can of mosquito repellent to ward off the gangs of hungry mosquitoes along the banks.
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