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.
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.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
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.
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.
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.
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.