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A Trip Down the Frio River in Dallas
Summer is right around the corner, and for Dallasites, that typically means a trip to the Frio River. Known for its beautiful and cool waters, the Frio River has everything you need to fight the scorching summer heat.
It stretches 200 miles, starting west of San Antonio before flowing into the Nueces River in the Rio Grande. Secluded by dozens of cypress trees and high limestone bluffs, it’d be impossible for anyone to come visit and not find themselves relaxing in the view.
It’s the perfect spot for a quick swim or a lazy float!
How to Get There
The Frio River is around 350 miles away from Dallas, so around a five-hour drive from the city.
It’s not the longest drive; however, we highly recommend getting your car checked by an auto body shop before starting your journey.
It’s summer and the last thing you want to be is stranded in the middle of the Texas highway.
There are several access points to the Frio River, some public and some private. Entrance fees can cost anywhere between $0 to $60 – depending on the area you choose.
You can easily plan your routes using applications like Google Maps or Waze.
What to Bring
It’s better to be well-equipped while on vacation than to have nothing in your arsenal at all. While you don’t necessarily need to hire professional movers to help you move your things, the list can be a little long, so pay attention.
During your visit, make sure to pack the following:
- A tent
- Bath towels
- Blankets
- Paper goods (napkins, towels, plates)
- Utensils
- Trash bags
- Insect repellant
- Drinking water
- Bath essentials (shampoo, soap)
- Firewood or charcoal (if you plan to cook outdoors)
- Grill or coal-powered stove
No need to stick with this list religiously. You can add or remove things based on your needs and preferences.
Note: The surrounding counties near the Frio River are considered “dry” counties. In other words, you won’t find a single drop of alcohol in any of their stores.
If you’re planning to enjoy a few cold beers by the river, make sure to bring some of your own in an ice chest.
Where to Stay
There are loads of establishments and accommodations near Frio River that you and your loved ones can check into during your trip. Whether you’re looking for spas or hair salons, you’re sure to find what you need without any trouble.
Rio Bella Resort has several cabins and lodges for rent with overlooking views of the Frio. This is a great alternative for those who don’t particularly enjoy camping in the outdoors.
Some establishments might not allow dogs (or any pet) to enter the premises. If the cabin or lodge you’re renting is one such establishment, you may want to leave your furbaby in a dog daycare in the city.
Where to Eat
If cooking isn’t your thing, don’t worry. You can find dozens of unique restaurants and eateries in the area.
Here are a few of our top picks:
Address: 20970 HWY 127 Concan, TX 78838
Contact: 830-232-5813 | [email protected]
George West Lucky Seafood
Address: 607 Guadalupe St, George West, TX 78022
Contact: 361-268-1066
Hippie Chic’s River Shack
Address: 721 River Rd Concan, TX 78838
Contact: 830-232-5459
Address: 529 Mountain Valley Dr Sabinal, TX 78881
Contact: 830-834-9315
Tubing in the Frio River
Tubing in the Frio River can cost anywhere between $20 to $50 – depending on which access point you go through. If you’re not unsure which access points to use for your trip, there are plenty of touring companies that would be more than happy to help.
For those who wish to look for tubing rentals on their own, we recommend you check out the following:
Address: US Hwy 83S, Leakey, TX, 78873 or US Hwy 83S & Hwy 127, Concan, TX, 78838
Contact: 830-232-6292 | 830-719-0003 | [email protected]
Address: 21488 TX-127, Concan, TX 78838
Contact: 830-232-5444 | [email protected]
444 Tubing Company
Address: 444 E San Antonio St, New Braunfels, TX 78130
Contact: 830-730-8740 | [email protected]
Remember not to bring any important items with you while tubing. The last thing you want is to lose your car keys during your float.
Locksmiths are hard to find in the Frio River area and you don’t want to end up walking all the way home to the city.
