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Howell's Riverfront

Facility Rental - Shuttle / Launches

Opening at 8:00 AM on Thursday

Call (979) 732-6047Get QuoteGet directionsWhatsApp (979) 732-6047Message (979) 732-6047Contact UsMake AppointmentFind TablePlace OrderView Menu

Testimonials

4 years ago

Its 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!

- Nikki M

3 years ago

We had a blast on the river. Couldn’t ask for better scenery! Reservations were easy, very streamlined. We were on the water in no time after arriving. The family running the place gave us all the info we needed for a safe enjoyable float. You got to pull off on some of the sandy banks. Great place to go for a swim and cool off. We’ll definitely be back.

- Michael S

a year ago

This past weekend, we went to Howell’s Riverfront, who shuttled our car which allowed us to kayak the Colorado River, (class 1 rapids, aka easy) – great fun! The owner, (Frank) gave-us a map and took the time to show us how to best to navigate the waterway! We had a great time and saw numerous wildlife along the river…it took us ~2 ½ hours to navigate the water though we are in a tandem kayak so with 2X horsepower tend to navigate the water quicker than most… Highly recommended and I hope to return someday!

- Jim P

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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

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)

*Holidays - Easter, July 4th, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas, New Year's Eve.

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.