AUSTIN HORSE FIELD GUIDE
Staples River “Experience”: Ride, Wade and Swim with Horses on the San Marcos
A roughly 4-hour Maverick Horseback Riding outing on the San Marcos River where riders can cool off — even swim — alongside horses; this guide explains what to expect and where to meet.
Staples River “Experience”: Ride, Wade and Swim with Horses on the San Marcos.
Adventure brief
Staples River “Experience”: Ride, Wade and Swim with Horses on the San Marcos
At Maverick Horseback Riding the Staples River “Experience” unfolds along a spring-fed stretch of the San Marcos: a leisurely outing that pairs a saddle session with time in the water, letting riders splash, wade, or swim alongside the horses in a river oasis.
Discover a one-of-a-kind outdoor adventure with the Staples River Experience by Maverick Horseback Riding in Austin, Texas. This unique trip invites you to connect with nature in an extraordinary way by swimming alongside beautiful horses in the crystal-clear San Marcos River. Located just outside Austin, this experience blends the calming joy of a refreshing river swim with the gentle companionship of horses creating a peaceful yet lively atmosphere. Whether you're splashing in shallow waters or immersing yourself fully alongside the animals, the tranquil river setting combined with the calming presence of horses offers an unmatched day of relaxation and excitement. This is perfect for all ages and skill levels, making it accessible to families, couples, and solo travelers seeking an authentic connection to Texas' natural beauty. With Maverick Horseback Riding, experienced guides ensure a safe, memorable outing while sharing their passion for horses and the environment. Bring your sense of adventure, swimwear, and a willingness to embrace the unexpected – this is not just a ride, but a true river journey where the horse and water world come together in harmony.
Route Schematic
Route & key stops
The experience follows a simple flow: meet, mount, move to the river, and spend time in the water with the horses.
Meet at San Marcos Waterfall Ride
Participants gather at the designated San Marcos Waterfall Ride meeting point before the outing begins.
Mounted ride toward the river
Riders mount and proceed toward the San Marcos River, transitioning from trail to the water’s edge for the cooling portion of the experience.
River time: wading and swimming
The core stop is time in the San Marcos River where guests may splash around or swim alongside the horses in a leisurely setting.
Wrap-up
After river time the outing concludes and participants return from the water portion to finish the experience.
Participants should be aware that the operator may adjust route or timing; check with Maverick Horseback Riding for any specific physical or health considerations before booking.
What the day feels like
What the outing feels like
Over roughly four hours the day moves from a meeting point into a gentle equine outing that culminates in river time — a blend of riding and refreshing immersion where the horses and riders cool off together in the San Marcos current.
THE RIVER
A San Marcos oasis for horse and rider
The defining element of this experience is the river itself — clear, spring-fed water where guests can cool off and interact directly with the horses amid a relaxed, natural setting.
THE ENCOUNTER
Swim alongside the herd
More than a trail ride, this outing gives riders the chance to splash around or even swim with the horses, creating a memorable, hands-on equine encounter in the water.
THE MOOD
Leisurely pace, big payoff
The Staples River “Experience” is framed as a restorative, Texas‑favorite outing: paced for enjoyment rather than speed, it emphasizes cooling off, connection with the animals, and time in nature.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this outing suits — and who should confirm details first.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The full Staples River “Experience” runs approximately 4 hours from start to finish.
No detailed gear list is provided in the source materials; consult Maverick Horseback Riding for operator recommendations and any required items.
Meet at the San Marcos Waterfall Ride as the designated departure point for the outing.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long does the Staples River “Experience” take?
Approximately four hours from start to finish.
Where is the meeting point?
The meeting location listed for the experience is the San Marcos Waterfall Ride.
Can I swim with the horses?
Yes — the experience explicitly includes cooling off in the San Marcos River and allows guests to splash around or even swim alongside the horses.
Who operates the Staples River “Experience”?
The outing is run by Maverick Horseback Riding.
What does the activity involve?
Participants ride horses and spend time cooling off in the San Marcos River as part of a leisurely equine outing.
Are there age or health restrictions?
No specific restrictions were provided in the source information; travelers with health concerns or special requirements should contact the operator to confirm suitability.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-09-05T19:26:50.792Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.