History
We are conveniently located between Austin & San Antonio. Spring Lake, headwaters to the San Marcos River, has attracted celebrants of all kinds for literally thousands of years. As the longest continuously inhabited site in all of North America, Spring Lake provides a time tested venue steeped in history and natural beauty. From the 1950s to the early 1990s, Aquarena Springs Amusement Park entertained tourists of Spring Lake with glass bottom boat tours of the bubbling springs and crystal clear water. They even boasted a submarine theater to stage performances by the famous Ralph the Swimming Pig, Glurpo the underwater clown, and the Aquamaids. In the mid-1990s, the property was purchased by Texas State University and began its transformation to the nature preserve we have today. Under direction from the Meadows Center for Water & the Environment, we still give glass bottom boat tours, but our focus has shifted from entertainment to Conservation, Stewardship, Research & Service.
Specialties
Spring Lake specializes in hosting unforgettable events in a picturesque outdoor setting. Our signature glass bottom boats are available to add a one-of-a-kind experience to any event.