Canoeing, Kayaking and Tubing on the Llano River

The South Llano River flows northward to Junction where it meets the North Llano River at the Junction City Park. This "junction" of the two rivers is downstream from the dam, which creates the Main Llano River area and then travels across miles of the Hill Country terrain and empties into the Colorado River. These beautiful areas of water make canoeing, kayaking and tubing the most popular activities for the Junction and Kimble County areas. Legends recommends that you check with the State Park on area water levels. 2009 has been a very dry year.

• Being on or close to the river during heavy rains can be very dangerous. There are times when the area does not receive rain, but the rainfall up river will affect the level of the river downstream. If caught in rising waters, get off the river immediately and go to higher ground.
• Landowner’s rights versus canoer's rights are not clearly defined as to who owns the river banks and gravel bars. The landowner’s deed determines where the property line is placed. If approached by a landowner and asked to leave the premises, it is advised to move on down the river. Only in emergency situations should you venture onto private property.
  

When it comes to tubing the river, Many of the local convenience stores and service stations rent tubes. However, at this point in time, there are no shuttle services available for tubing the South Llano and Main Llano Rivers. Before heading out, check the river levels and remember: what takes a canoe three hours to travel down on the river will take at least twice as much time floating in a tube. Tubing lengthy distances is never recommended.

Suggested tubing trips:

• Between the first and second crossings on the South Llano River (approximately 15 miles from Junction on Highway 377 south)
• Within the boundaries of South Llano River State Park (park fees apply)
• Beginning at Flat Rock Crossing (near Texas Tech Center) and finishing at the two privately owned campgrounds or the City Park.
  

Things to know before you go:

• Respect the environment. Take plastic garbage bags with you and use them as you should. Then dispose of them properly.
• Respect private property. Approach the river only through public access points and do not leave your vehicles parked on private property without permission from the property owner.Take plenty of drinking water and sun screen, and secure your keys in a water-tight bag.
• Get current weather conditions before getting in the water. Check out the website tx.usgs.gov. They will have the latest information on water levels.