Frequently Asked Questions

No — we're cash only. We don't accept credit cards, debit cards, or checks. If you forget cash, there's an ATM about 200 feet away inside the Zilker Eagle mini train ticket depot right at the park entrance. Exact change not required — we carry change.

All boats — canoes, kayaks, and SUPs — rent for the same price: $21 per hour per boat, or $57 for the whole day. Rates are pro-rated after the first hour, so you don't pay for time you don't use. No hidden fees, no deposits.

Standard rentals are first-come, first-served — just walk up! For the best availability, come on a weekday or early on weekend mornings. If you're bringing a group, send us an email at boatszilkerpark@gmail.com and we'll accommodate you during non-peak hours. You can also submit a reservation request online as a heads-up for peak weekend times.

Show our 2-for-1 coupon when you arrive (on your phone is fine) and get a free second boat rental or a free second hour on one boat. Valid Monday through Friday, except holidays. Great deal if you're planning a mid-week paddle.

Yes! Gift certificates are available online in any amount. They make a great birthday, anniversary, or 'just because you live in Austin' gift. Perfect for anyone who loves the outdoors but hasn't tried paddling yet.

We don't offer percentage discounts, but groups can use the 2-for-1 weekday coupon. For schools, camps, youth organizations, and nonprofits we work with budget-limited groups — email boatszilkerpark@gmail.com to discuss your situation. We genuinely want to get everyone on the water.

Absolutely — dogs are welcome and they love it! Canoes offer the most room and stability for nervous pups. SUPs are also popular for dogs once they get their sea legs. We don't provide life jackets for dogs, so if your dog isn't a strong swimmer, bring a canine PFD.

Yes, coolers are welcome. Canoes are especially great for loading up with snacks and drinks. Just note: no alcohol permitted on the water. Soft drinks, water, and non-alcoholic beverages are perfectly fine.

Yes — life jackets are included in your rental at no extra cost, sized infant through adult. We'll make sure everyone in your group has a properly fitting PFD before you launch. Wearing one is your call for adults, but we strongly encourage it — especially for children.

From our dock on Barton Creek, it's about a quarter mile to Lady Bird Lake (the scenic dammed section of the Colorado River). Once you're on Lady Bird Lake, you can paddle east toward the famous downtown Austin skyline. Most folks do a 1–2 hour loop. Strong paddlers can cover quite a bit of ground in an all-day rental.

Not at all! Our canoes and kayaks are stable and beginner-friendly. Our staff will give you a quick paddling orientation before you launch. If you've never paddled before, we recommend a canoe or single kayak for your first trip — they're the easiest to control.

Yes — a valid picture ID is required for all rentals. This applies to all adult paddlers. No exceptions.

Yes — everyone who gets in a boat signs a waiver (there's an adult form and a separate child form). You can save time at the dock by reviewing and signing online in advance. Just bring confirmation with you.

The safe load limit is 2 adults plus 2 small children per boat. Each child must have one adult acting as a dedicated rescuer — meaning you may need an additional boat if you have multiple small children. Our staff can help you figure out the right configuration for your group.

No alcohol is permitted on the water. Zilker Park is a public park and alcohol on the water is not allowed. Coolers with non-alcoholic drinks are very welcome though.

We operate weather permitting. If conditions are unsafe — high winds, lightning, or flooding — we'll close for the day and you'll get a full refund or reschedule. If weather looks iffy, call ahead at (512) 478-3852. Texas weather changes fast, so we always err on the side of safety.

Yes — parking in Zilker Park is free. Head to the easternmost parking lot in Zilker Park. From there, walk down the stairs to the left near Barton Springs Pool and you'll see us.

We're tucked away inside Zilker Park on the banks of Barton Creek, just downstream from Barton Springs Pool — not visible from the street. GPS: 2101 Andrew Zilker Rd, Austin, TX 78746. Look for the 'Canoe Rental is Open' banner near the water. If you're lost, call us at (512) 478-3852 and we'll talk you in.