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Howell's Riverfront
Facility Rental - Shuttle / Launches
Opening at 8:00 AM on Thursday
Testimonials
5 years ago
- Nikki MIts family owned and operated. They are very nice and friendly, and accommodating. It was our time on a kayak. They went over safety and some how-to before we got on the water so we were much more confident. They even informed us of the water & wind conditions that day and showed us on the map where we would have to paddle harder and/or take it easy. We went on our own without a guide. It's a great place for beginners and kids or even a fun date. And it's very reasonably priced! We took the short route, and it could easily last all day. Well worth the money and time! We will definitely be going back!
10 months ago
- Ryan PFrank, the owner, is hospitable and knowledgeable. I’ve launched my kayak from Howell’s Riverfront and utilized the shuttle service many times over the course of the last 10 years. I’m happy to see y’all are still providing services, and I’m planning on getting back out to your lovely spot on the river very soon.
6 years ago
- Tom SWe have been using Howell Canoe Livery for years. So have many families, individuals and groups. Safety is number one and fun is number 2 when allowing the folks at Howell (all Columbus old timers) to be your rental and shuttle service while paddling the TPWD Colorado River Paddling Trail. Not sure about what you are getting yourself into? Frank, one of the owners, will lead you through a briefing on river conditions (with pictures and a map) and paddling tips to make sure you have an enjoyable trip. At the end of the 6 mile journey staff will pick you up and take you back to the livery. Be sure to bring a camera and a fishing pole with a bright colored Rooster Tail spinner tied to the end!
About us
Seasons / Hours of Operation
- Facility Rental - Reservation required.
- Shuttles/launches - Reservation recommended.
A wonderful place to spend some quality time with family and friends on the mighty Colorado River.
- Our rental facility is the ideal location for family reunions, birthday parties, meetings, etc. We are located on the banks of the Colorado River, adjacent to the historic site where Robson's Castle once stood.
- Though no longer renting canoes/kayaks, (Howell Canoe Livery 1996 - 2019), we will continue to provide shuttles for boat owners that would like to paddle the TPWD Columbus Paddling Trail. This paddling trail covers a scenic 6.1 mile section of the Colorado River that begins and ends in historic Columbus. You will begin at Howell's Riverfront and end at Beason's Park. This is a great day trip that includes islands, light rapids, and a creek that enters the river halfway through the trip.
- If river tubing is more your style, contact Waldo's Camp to arrange for a float trip from Howell's Riverfront.
Rates
Shuttle / Launch Fee
Tube Rental
Facility Rental
The following rates are based on a max occupancy of 50 people. Extra fees may apply for larger groups.
- Prices do not include sales tax or deposit. Prices subject to change without notice.
Shuttle / Launch Fee
- $3.00/tube - launch fee
- $5.00/boat - launch fee (canoe/kayak)
- $10.00/person - shuttle fee (Beason's to Howell's)
- $20.00/person - shuttle fee (Beason's to Hwy-71 boat ramp)
- Call for pricing - shuttles for longer trips along the Colorado River
Tube Rental
- Contact Waldo's Camp
Facility Rental
The following rates are based on a max occupancy of 50 people. Extra fees may apply for larger groups.
- Regular rate - $50.00/hour (Minimum fee is $200.00 - 4 hours)
- Holiday* rate - $50.00/hour after minimum (Minimum fee is $300.00 - 4 hours)
LCRA River Maps
- Colorado River Public Access Sites (Austin to Matagorda)
River Conditions
- This portion of the Colorado River is considered as a light Class I river. It is mostly flat with two short sections of light rapids. However, a strong south wind can cause the river to become choppy and difficult to navigate.
Tips for an enjoyable river trip
- Know your ability and the river's demands.
- Know how to swim.
- Think and practice safety at all times.
- Wear your life jacket (PFD) fastened at all times.
- Allow sufficient time for swimming, picnicking and resting.
- Beginners should not take young children.
- Do not overload or stand up in your watercraft.
- Wear river shoes at all times.
- Bring a dry change of clothing.
- Bring a thirst quenching drink (i.e. water, sports drink)
- Alcohol and water do not mix.
- Carry food and clothing in water tight containers that are tied securely to the watercraft.
- Use litter bags and leave only tracks behind.
- Never take glass on the river.
- Protect yourself from the elements (ex. sunscreen)
- Use a strap to secure glasses.
- Keep off private property.
- Show respect at all times.
- Lock valuables in the car.
- Enjoy wildlife and wildflowers, but leave them behind
History
- The Colorado River, which is approximately 600 river miles long, is considered one of the great rivers of Texas. One of the first settlements along the river was Columbus, established in 1823. As would be expected, there is a rich history within this town and the river that surrounds it.
- As you travel along this section of the river, you will pass the old low water bridge and the remains of "The Wall". While doing so, try to visualize the many ferry crossings and the paddle wheelers that were once commonplace. In the mid 1800's there was a castle (Robson's Castle) built along the banks of the river, complete with moat and running water.
- Allow yourself extra time to explore Cummins Creek as you paddle under the trees in this peaceful body of water. At the end of your trip, you will be able to relax and picnic under the magnificent live oaks at Beason's Park.
Wildlife
- Numerous species of bird life abounds along the river. The most visible are the kingfishers, herons, and egrets. There are also several pairs of American bald eagles that frequent the area.
- Though mainly nocturnal, there is a healthy population of beavers that inhabit this section of water. Other wildlife that live along the river are raccoons, opossums, skunks, squirrels, fox, nutria, snakes, turtles, and deer.
- For the light tackle/fly fisherman, test your skills on the Guadalupe bass that inhabit the river. The best time to catch these is when the water is clear. Catfish (channel, blue, and flat head) are more readily caught in the spring and fall. The best time for catfish is when the water is muddy.
Gallery
Contact Us
Contact
Call now
- (979) 732-6047
Address
Business Hours
| Mon: | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
|---|---|
| Tue: | Closed |
| Wed: | Closed |
| Thu: | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Fri: | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Sat: | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Sun: | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
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