Aquarena Springs in San Marcos

Aquarena Springs is located in San Marcos at the head of the San Marcos River.  The site has more than 200 springs, and some of the clearest water around - even cleaner than our drinking water!

Previously, Aquarena Springs was an entertainment center, complete with Ralph, the Swimming Pig.  However, Texas State University recently bought this location and is transforming it into an educational center.  They are in the process of removing all of the previous buildings and even an old submarine.

The location has glass bottom boat trips available, as well as kayak rental.  These same glass bottom boats have been used since the 1950's!

Through the glass, the bubbling sprigns are visible, as well as numerous fish and turtles.  Above water, there were also a number of unusual birds, including the comorant below that we spotted during our tour!

We visited the Springs along with D's scout troop, as they worked on one of the merit badges.  The center provides many different programs for scouts to work on a variety of merit badges. 

When we visited, the center was in the middle of a major renovation, with the educational center mostly off limits.  They were still installing what looked to be a nice aquarium.  They did allow us a quick preview, thought :o)

The center was set to be fully open in June, with aquariums of creatures found in the area, including the Texas blind salamander, a rare cave dweller native to San Marcos.  This was a fun and informative visit to a neighboring ecological mecca!