Comal River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Comal River |
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The Comal River as it runs past Schlitterbahn water park.
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Location of the Comal River
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| Country | United States |
| State | Texas |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Comal Springs New Braunfels, Comal County 645 ft (197 m) 29°42′46.62″N 98°8′15″W / 29.7129500°N 98.13750°W |
| River mouth | Guadalupe River New Braunfels, Comal County 600 ft (180 m) 29°42′16″N 98°6′50″W / 29.70444°N 98.11389°W |
| Length | 2.5 mi (4.0 km) |
| Basin features | |
| Basin size | 130 sq mi (340 km2) |
The Comal River (pronounced KOH-mal) is a special river in Texas, United States. It's known as the shortest navigable river in the state. Locals even call it the "longest shortest river in the world"! This small river flows entirely within the city of New Braunfels in Comal County. It eventually joins the larger Guadalupe River. The Comal River starts at Comal Springs in Landa Park and travels about 2.5 miles (4 km) before meeting the Guadalupe.
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History of the Comal River
The Comal River has an interesting past. Long ago, Spanish explorers called it the "Little Guadalupe." In 1727, a Spanish explorer named Pedro de Rivera y Villalón gave the longer river its name, Guadalupe. That's when the Comal River got its current name. The word "Comal" means basin or flat dish in Spanish.
Early Uses of the River
In the past, the Comal River was very important for people living nearby. Early German settlers used its strong current to power watermills. These mills helped grind grain. They also used the river to run cotton gins, which separated cotton fibers. Later, the river was used to create hydroelectric power, providing electricity to homes and businesses.
River Management
Today, the Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority helps manage the Comal River. They make sure the river is used wisely. This includes managing the water for fun activities and protecting its natural environment.
Wildlife in the Comal River
The Comal River is home to a very special fish called the fountain darter. This small fish is now in danger of disappearing forever. It lives in only two rivers in the world. The Comal River is one of them, and the nearby San Marcos River is the other. Protecting the Comal River helps protect these rare fish.
Fun on the Comal River
The Comal River is a popular spot for outdoor fun. Its gentle currents and clear water make it perfect for many activities.
Tubing Adventures
Thousands of people love to go tubing down the Comal River. This is especially popular during spring and summer. Tubing on the Comal is a relaxed way to enjoy the water. It's often calmer than tubing on the nearby Guadalupe River, which can have more rapids and big rocks.
Scuba Diving
The river's clear water and mild currents make it a great place for scuba diving. Divers can explore the riverbed and sometimes find items left behind by tubers. The Comal River stays about 72°F (22°C) all year. This means divers can enjoy the water in both summer and winter.
Schlitterbahn Water Park
The famous Schlitterbahn water park is built right along a 16-acre (6.5-hectare) stretch of the Comal River. The park uses the river's natural flow and cool water to create exciting rides and attractions.
