CONCAN, Texas – In the wake of last week’s Hill Country flooding, the Frio River is showing signs of rapid recovery, with some local float outfitters gearing up to reopen as soon as Thursday. This announcement has sparked a mix of excitement and caution among river enthusiasts and experts alike.
Brett Rimkus, a member of the flood advisory team at Garner State Park, is closely monitoring the river’s status on a daily basis. He expressed optimism about the river’s condition, stating, “This is the best river we’ve had in probably 19 years. The river’s looking absolutely wonderful.” With the ongoing drought conditions in the past five years, Rimkus noted the public’s eagerness to engage with the water, saying, “It’s cold, the springs are full, and everything about it is screaming, ‘Let’s get in the water and finish out summer.’”
Andy’s on River Road is among the first outfitters planning to resume tubing activities on Thursday, with expectations that more will follow suit throughout the weekend. However, caution remains paramount; last week, floodwaters reached dramatic heights, cresting seven feet over the dam at Garner State Park and nearly 21 feet downstream near Concan.
Matthew Lopez, a visitor from Corpus Christi, shared a harrowing experience his family had near Majors Crossing. “When somebody tells you something, I would 110% listen — because that was scary,” he recounted, describing how his son fell off a float and his wife was swept into rapids, sustaining injuries before managing to grab onto a branch to escape. His advice for families is clear: if conditions seem rapid or dangerous, it’s best to stay away.
Rimkus emphasized that conditions vary significantly throughout the river. He advised rivergoers to consult with outfitters to ensure they choose the right section for their skill level. “Talk to the outfitters when you’re going any part of the river — whether it’s in Garner, above Garner, below Garner,” he said. This information is critical for safety, especially in the wake of fluctuating river conditions.
Additionally, Rimkus recommended that all visitors wear river shoes, as the flooding has altered the riverbed, leaving sharper rocks exposed. Life jackets are also strongly advised, particularly for children, to ensure safety while enjoying the water.
Garner State Park has been a popular destination, attracting over 455,000 visitors in 2025 alone, according to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. This popularity underscores the importance of safety and awareness as visitors return to the river this weekend.
As of Wednesday, the National Weather Service continues to issue flood warnings for areas downstream on the Frio and Nueces river systems in South Texas. Visitors planning to enjoy the Frio River this weekend are encouraged to stay informed by checking conditions directly with Concan-area outfitters.
