Riding the River and Creekside Glamping: A Weekend on Seguin’s Waters

As Mother Nature turns up the thermostat from toasty warm to sizzlin’, there’s no better place to cool off than Seguin. The cool thing about Seguin (first and last time, we promise) is that no matter where you stay in town, you’re just minutes away from paddling, fishing, and swimming. With the Guadalupe River meandering through the city and Lake Placid lying just a couple of miles west of downtown, chilling on the water couldn’t be easier. Here are a few of our favorite ways to beat the heat in Seguin.

Here Comes the Son’s Island Resort

Feel like a tropical island getaway minus the flight? Son’s Island resort has your name written all over it. Drive over the 100-foot wooden bridge and onto a private island in Lake Placid. Like the gentle breeze, time slows down here, and all you have to worry about is getting the perfect balance of fun and relaxation. 

The aptly named Lake Placid—created by the Lake Placid Dam across the Guadalupe River—provides an ideal spot for breaking out the sunscreen, pool noodles, and floaties. Swimmers can dive right off their private docks or take a plunge from the waterslide. Who doesn’t love waterslides? Imagine how much fun going to work would be if you could commute by waterslide. For paddlers, Son’s Island rents kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and large floating blankets called iFloats. You can opt for a one-time rental or buy a Watercraft Wristband and have unlimited 45-minute sessions with any of the watercraft for the entire day.

If you’re picturing a very laid-back day of fishing, grilling on the barbeque, and napping in a hammock, Son’s Island has you covered—and we’re not just talking about the thatched roofs. In addition to the shade, each cabana comes with a private dock, a charcoal BBQ pit, and your very own hammock. Inside, it’s decked out with lounge seating, table and chairs, bar-top counter and stools, running water, electricity, and a ceiling fan. It has everything you need for a relaxing day—and night. Yes, Son’s Island provides overnight tent camping, too. It’s BYOB (bring your own bedding), but the peacefulness of falling asleep to nature’s soundtrack and rising to a glorious sunrise are on the house!

Son’s Island reopens this spring and promises to be a crowd-free experience. Make your reservations early as a limited number of guests are allowed on the island each day.

Hop into a Kayak at Max Starcke Park

The 227-acre Max Starcke Park is a natural oasis within Seguin’s city limits. You’ll discover just about any outdoor recreation you can think of here: golf, disc golf, tennis, pickleball, volleyball, basketball, baseball, hiking, and fishing. The riverfront park also happens to serve as a launch point for the Seguin Paddling Trail. The beginner kayaking and paddle boarding route offers calm water and a hassle-free outing with no shuttle or portage needed. Along the paddling trail, you can admire the scenery or hug the bank and relax in the shade of the majestic cypress, pecan, and sycamore trees. While you’re exploring the river, keep your eyes peeled for birds who call this area home. Kayakers who want to fish along the route will be rewarded with largemouth bass, Guadalupe bass, sunfish, and catfish.

Fuel Up at the Powerplant Texas Bar & Grill

When you’ve worked up an appetite, head to The Powerplant Texas Bar & Grill. The 19th-century power plant-turned restaurant is right across the river from Max Starcke Park. This historic building not only has some of its original machinery, but it also has beautiful views of the Safford Dam and Guadalupe River from its pup-friendly patio.

Whether you’re craving a juicy burger and craft brew or the comfort of Southwest style chicken fried steak with a side of poblano cream corn, the Powerplant’s waitstaff serves them up with a smile and unbeatable views. 

Seguin’s outdoor dining and drink scene goes well beyond the riverfront, with al fresco bites downtown and patio sips at local breweries and wineries. If craft beer speaks to you, head to Seguin Brewing Company for pizza and a cold one on the patio. On the other hand (or in the other hand), if winetasting checks all your boxes, visit Windmill Farm Winery. All the small batch wines are made in the 100-year-old barn-turned-winery and are available for sampling. You can also learn winemaking from the owners and go home with your own custom-labeled wines after the magic of fermentation changes grapes into nectar of the gods! 

Gear Up for Glamping at Geronimo Creek Retreat

Since Seguin offers a whole lotta opportunities for cooling off, you may want to extend your stay to fit everything in. Might we suggest Geronimo Creek Retreat, which boasts unique, waterside vacation rentals that make you feel like a kid at camp. If you love nature, but aren’t a fan of sleeping on the ground, worry not! Geronimo is a full-on glamping experience featuring teepees, treehouses, and safari cabins. All have kitchenettes or full kitchens, modern bathrooms, and comfy beds. There’s even a three-bedroom, two-bath home available for larger families. 

No matter which home away from home you choose, it’s only steps away from Geronimo Creek and a pretty spring-fed pond. Paddleboats, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards allow you to get on the water and enjoy its tranquility.

You’ll also find a beach volleyball court, disc golf course, game room, and hot tub on the property. With all the amenities, you may very well find the same four words going through your head like a news ticker: “maybe one more day.” 

Get Ready for Your Getaway

A day trip to Seguin barely gives you enough time to step out of your hectic life and into relaxation mode in the refreshing waters of Guadalupe River and Lake Placid.  Before it gets hotter than Hades, make your plans for a weekend getaway to Seguin and let the cool waters carry you away. 

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Cover photo courtesy of Destination Seguin

This post is a sponsored collaboration with Destination Seguin.