Comal County will allow river outfitters to reopen today but will enforce several rules issued by the state. The news comes after amendments were made to Gov. Greg Abbott's Report to Open Texas.

"Following the Governor’s orders, we are encouraged to see our community begin to reopen," said Mayor Barron Casteel in a press release.

The rules below will be applied to outfitters statewide and a Comal County official said they would be enforced locally.
  • Any vehicle used to transport individuals between places along the river must be cleaned and disinfected between uses.
  • If the vehicle is a bus, alternate rows should be used.
  • Individuals should not sit within six feet of any other person not with the individual’s group.
  • Individuals should sanitize hands before getting onto such a vehicle.
  • Face coverings are strongly recommended while on the vehicle.
In addition to these rules, floating under the San Antonio Street Bridge is still prohibited due to construction and the Last Public Exit will remain closed.

River parks reopened by the city of New Braunfels

Prince Solms Park, Hinman Island and the City Tube Chute also reopened today, May 8, with limits to hours of operation and crowd sizes. Normal picnic fees and parking fees are in effect.


River parks will be open daily from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and park-goers must follow social distancing guidelines outlined in the document below.

On May 9, Cypress Bend Park and River Acres Park will reopen with the same park rules, according to the city of New Braunfels.

"Our goal is to create an environment where social distancing is possible while enjoying our beautiful parks and rivers," Casteel said. "However, park-goers also have a responsibility to help limit the spread of COVID-19 and should commit to following the Governor’s orders and safety precautions, including social distancing."

There will be no lifeguards on duty this weekend, May 9 and May 10, but life jackets will remain available. According to the city, lifeguards will follow refined protocols to limit physical interaction when they return to duty .


More city amenities will begin to reopen later this month but all dates are tentative.

Das Rec is scheduled to reopen May 18. Landa Park Aquatic Center is scheduled to reopen June 1 because of lifeguard staffing and training.

The Landa Park Train, Mini Golf Course, paddle boats, playground and playscape equipment, skate park, and Fischer Park splash pad have not been scheduled to reopen as of May 7.