The Texas River School is Austin’s only river-based program that focuses on creating on-the–water opportunities for urban children who might not otherwise experience the best of Austin’s natural world. Since its inception nearly 5,000 have participated in Texas River School programming. The Texas River School believes in the power of hands-on learning in an engaging outdoor environment to actively involve students in their education. The School uses the Colorado River, Barton Springs and Lady Bird Lake as our classrooms to build self confidence, develop leadership and to experience and learn from nature in new and meaningful ways.

Discover the Source

This day long trip begins and ends at the Texas Rowing Center (conveniently located behind Austin High School). Students learn river safety, canoe and paddling techniques and more importantly, teamwork, following directions and their important role as conservationists. The trip features snorkeling instruction at the Barton Srpings Pool with students able to dive down and feel the aquifer thereby Discovering the Source! Participants visit the Splash! Exhibit and also learn the importance of healthy food choices and how to keep food and gear cool and dry for a day on the River.

River Adventures

A day long trip on the Colorado River from Longhorn Dam to the Texas River School RiverCamp in Imperial Valley. Students learn how to navigate their canoe on moving water; gain a better understanding of riverine systems of Texas; develop leadership and decision making skills; learn how to spin and fly cast and particpate in hands-on freshwater science and nature photography activities.

Whether it is a few hours simply learning how to paddle on Lady Bird Lake to an overnight canoe camping adventure, the Texas River School staff can develop an on the water experience for your class or community group that meets your desired outcomes. We specialize in creating active and engaging programming that produces scholarship, stewardship and citizenship! Please email info@texasriverschool and let's discuss your ideas and together let's keep our kids and rivers healthy!