10 Best Airbnb Vacation Rentals Near San Marcos River, Texas - Updated 2024

Alyssandra Raiza
Alyssandra Raiza 
Updated
| 5 min read

The San Marcos River is a thriving nature spot that stretches 75 miles (121 km) and is popular for fishing, kayaking, and swimming. It serves as home to endangered species of wildlife, too, including the fountain darter, Texas salamander, and wild rice. The river also hosts the exciting Texas Water Safari, a yearly canoe race that traverses the San Marcos and Guadalupe Rivers. There are many accommodations to choose from along this beautiful river. If you’re planning your next trip here, you need a great place to call your temporary home. Read on to find out the best Airbnb vacation rentals near San Marcos River, Texas.

We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on April 09, 2024.

1. Well-appointed river cabin with private pool (from USD 237)

Nestled among the trees by the river is this three-bedroom vacation home, which can accommodate up to six guests. The rustic brick exterior is a great contrast to the clean white interiors of the home. Inside, you can watch any movie on the large TV while lounging on the large sofas. If you’re hungry, the kitchen has all the equipment ready for you to prepare meals. Wi-Fi access, a coffee maker, and a garage are some of the other amenities you can enjoy here. Outside, the large wooden patio provides you with a spot to host small parties, and the pool is ideal for cooling down during the summer months.

Stayed at this property?
Martindale, Texas, United States
5.96 km (3.8 mi) from Stokes Park
158 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
ENTIRE HOME 4 Beds 8 Guests 3 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 8

Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
a nice clean home with plenty of room
very homely clean and convenient
clean quiet spacious and convenient
very clean home with a few nice touch extras
the place overall was really clean and cozy
Host:
amber was such a great host
amber was a great host with lots of recommendations and was quick to respond to my messages
host responds quickly and the backyard is nice
amber responded to all of my questions really fast and was super accommodating
host is very responsive and the house was spacious and clean
Location:
the location is ideal
great location for san marcos visits
an amazing place with a perfect location
perfect location for floating the river with texas state tubes
such a good location if you’re looking to float the river
Read more reviews

2. Modern retreat with river views (from USD 614)

This modern home is ideal for a large family, with enough room for 12 guests to sleep comfortably. The house sits right beside the river, with its own stairway to help you get there. Each of the four large bedrooms comes with a large bed and plush cushions. The living area features massive couches, a high ceiling, and a state-of-the-art TV. A large island counter is the centerpiece of the newly renovated kitchen, where you can prepare homecooked meals. Upstairs, there is a wooden deck where you can enjoy your meals while viewing the river. This luxurious abode sits less than 10 minutes away from the town center, making it easy to get to and from the house.

Stayed at this property?
San Marcos, Texas, United States
5.65 km (3.6 mi) from Stokes Park
205 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
ENTIRE HOME 13 Beds 14 Guests 4 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 14

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
this is a beautiful house with all necessary amenities - kitchen tools silverware electronics
it had fully stocked kitchen plenty of sleeping space and very comfortable beds
amazing view beautiful home super comfortable beds easy check in and check out
the back deck is huge beds were comfortable
the beds were comfortable and the linens were nice
Cleanliness:
the house was clean and spacious
house was very clean organized and spacious
everything was new and clean
the space was clean quaint and overall wonderful
the house was extremely clean and the river is breathtaking
Host:
great hosts all around
the hosts were available to help with any of our questions and help make our christmas just perfect
hosts were super responsive and helpful
haleigh was a great host very accommodating and communicative
the host collin was very quick in responses and did everything possible so we can enjoy our stay
Location:
house was beautiful and location was excellent
my family enjoyed the location
the location was great and the river was right in the backyard
couldn’t be in a better location
this house is in a fantastic location for easy access to the river
Read more reviews

3. Safari-inspired tent in Wahwahtaysee Resort (from USD 379)

You won’t mistake this unique home for any other in the neighborhood! The tent-like exterior is reminiscent of a wildlife adventure or ones you might see at a music festival. In fact, these tents are made in South Africa. The outdoor deck and backyard give you plenty of space to stretch and catch some fresh air or have a barbecue. Inside, the plush, king-sized bed dominates the bedroom. The kitchen corner has the basics: microwave oven, fridge, and dishwasher. Lastly, a spa-like shower and tub are there to help you relax after a long day out in the city.

Stayed at this property?
Kingsbury, Texas, United States
19.29 km (12.0 mi) from Stokes Park
34 reviews   Wifi Available
Tent 2 Beds 4 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 4

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the patio surrounding the tent is welcoming and very comfortable
Cleanliness:
the whole property clean and private
everything was very clean clear instructions and the host was very friendly
Location:
beautiful place to spend time with the family
this is a great place to stay
Read more reviews

4. Luxurious abode best for families (from USD 1250)

This home boasts some of the best river views in town. It also is one of the biggest, with 6 bedrooms, 14 beds, and 5 baths providing enough room for up to 16 guests. The living area is spacious as well, with a large TV and fireplace to keep everyone relaxed. A large central island occupies the kitchen, which has plenty of counter space and cooking equipment. A screened indoor porch gives you sunlight and a great view of the San Marcos River. A second porch on the ground level gives you an even closer look at the river, which flows feet away from the house.

Stayed at this property?
Martindale, Texas, United States
10.34 km (6.5 mi) from Stokes Park
43 reviews   Wifi Available
ENTIRE HOME 14 Beds 16 Guests 6 Bedrooms 5 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 16

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
beds were comfortable
our favorite place was the huge screened room in the back of the house overlooking the river
Host:
jay was a wonderful host and everything was perfect
our hosts were easy to contact and very helpful
jay was always friendly and quick to respond with any questions
all the neighbors were friendly and we enjoyed seeing the cows peacocks and gathering their beautiful feathers
Location:
this is an ideal place for multiple families
the location was wonderful with a fantastic view
we loved everything about staying at jay's place
Read more reviews

5. Historic home with nature views

This authentic 1923 country home sits right by the river, 20 minutes away from the city of San Marcos. The stone patio is where you can view the nature surrounding the river. Inside the historic home, an old-world theme makes the living room more relaxing. The furniture is Victorian-themed, with the beds, chairs, and tables all having elaborate designs. All the modern amenities are present, including a fridge, microwave, smart TV, and Wi-Fi access. The 4 bedrooms can sleep up to 12 guests, and 2 large baths with bathtubs are also available to help guests keep clean and fresh.

Stayed at this property?
Martindale, Texas, United States
8.56 km (5.4 mi) from Stokes Park
118 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
ENTIRE HOME 5 Beds 12 Guests 4 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 12

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
wifi worked great too
the kitchen was great and there are several thoughtful details like bath amenities games and movie collections
the bedrooms a/c kitchen bathrooms all were great and easy to use
comfortable relaxing and stylish country home with great views and access to the river
the beds were insanely comfortable and the bedding was heavenly
Cleanliness:
it was very clean and well kept
the house was very clean and welcoming
the house was immaculate and clean
the home was super clean and very charming
the place was great clean and very charming we had everything we needed for our stay and more
Host:
patricia and quintin were wonderful hosts
patricia and quintin were fantastic hosts they went above and beyond to make our stay comfortable
also check in was easy and patrica ans quintin were wonderful host who avalible if needed
patricia and quintin were gracious hosts and very good communicators
she was very helpful with advice on where to tube and how long the float would take
Location:
amazing location right on the river
the location was perfect
great location right on the river
such an amazing house and location
it was an amazing location on the river
Read more reviews

6. Private guest home with a river deck (from USD 300)

Surrounded by lush green trees, this home is the escape from the city that you and your family deserve. The bedrooms can accommodate up to six guests, along with two baths to keep everyone fresh. Inside, the living area has large windows and couches to help keep everyone relaxed. Large granite counters allow you to prepare even the biggest of meals in the kitchen. Outside, a grill area with a minibar waits for your next barbecue. Wooden decks and benches in the yard give you an unobstructed view of the river. If you want to get out and explore the river, you can even get one of the kayaks and go boating.

Stayed at this property?
San Marcos, Texas, United States
1.4 km (0.9 mi) from Stokes Park
118 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
ENTIRE HOME 3 Beds 6 Guests 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 6

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
we played board games at the large dining room table and had a blast playing foosball
Cleanliness:
it was tidy and very kid friendly which was nice for this momma not to worry
Host:
host was very thoughtful and quick to respond
wonderful place with an awesome host
audrey is an awesome host
audrey was a great host the thoughtfulness that was put into preparing everything was evident
Location:
such and amazing house with a perfect location
the location is perfect and the house blew away our expectations
the house was perfect and very close to the square
the location is perfect and the house is stocked with kayaks and tubes
thanks audrey we had a great time in your comfy house the location was beautiful and peaceful
Read more reviews

7. Riverfront home with forest views

Perched among the trees, right on the banks of the river, this rustic retreat is a treat for you and your family. With its three bedrooms, the house can sleep up to eight guests comfortably. The open floor plan in the living area helps the solid wooden floors stand out, and emphasizes the plush couches in the middle. The kitchen and dining area both have complete utensils and appliances, too, so cooking should be a breeze. The massive backyard has a pavilion, where you can enjoy a fun barbecue while taking in the view of the surrounding forest.

Stayed at this property?

9.75 km (6.1 mi) from Stokes Park
40 reviews   Wifi Available
ENTIRE HOME 6 Beds 10 Guests 4 Bedrooms 3 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 10

Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
it was very clean and spacious
nice quiet and clean place
beautiful clean house a little off the beaten path
it was clean comfortable great location and beautiful
Location:
great location on the river
the house was very comfortable with 8 guests and an amazing location on the river
excellent place to gather for a family trip or a couple getaway
spacious homey and super comfortable the place is perfect for enjoying a relaxing week/weekend trip at the river
place was perfect for a family getaway for the weekend
Read more reviews

8. Charming farmland cottage for four

Located in the heart of a farm east of San Marcos, this little home packs a lot of amenities and charming decor. The single bedroom and sofa bed both have fluffy cushions and sheets. You can also lounge around on the sofa, with a TV and dining area right beside it. You can prepare any meal in the kitchen, which has a large stove, microwave oven, and even a dishwasher. On top of these, the home also includes a laundry room, air-conditioning and Wi-Fi access. You can play some football, and meet the farm chickens in the large yard. The river is 10 minutes away on foot, so you can enjoy boating and fishing, too.

Stayed at this property?

18.15 km (11.3 mi) from Stokes Park
159 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Entire cottage 2 Beds 4 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 4

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the air conditioning worked great and both the queen bed and the sofa bed were very comfortable
there was a lovely welcome basket of snacks breakfast cereals and other treats
Cleanliness:
very clean and comfortable space
everything was spotless worked perfectly and quiet
very stylish and super clean
the place was sparkling clean and up to date with everything we wanted
the place was immaculately clean well thought out and was plenty spacious for our family of four
Host:
host is friendly and helpful
the accommodations were great and the hosts thought of everything
overall beautiful property and great hosts
becky and keith were wonderful hosts
keith and becky are wonderful hosts
Location:
the location is so peaceful and quiet
we enjoyed our stay cute and quiet place
short peaceful walk or drive to the san marcos river
this place is super cute and roomier than i expected
the river access was awesome and the location was perfect for us
Read more reviews

9. A hip cabin with outdoor deck

This stylish cabin sits steps away from the San Marcos River and is the ideal spot for younger families. With two bedrooms, the house can accommodate six guests. The cabin boasts all wooden interiors and brand-new appliances. The living area has a large smart TV and a plush sofa. A new fridge and oven setup are the highlights of the kitchen. Tucked at the back of the house is the large main bedroom, which has its own TV and cabinets. You have access to other amenities, too, like laundry equipment, Wi-Fi access, and a back deck with a barbecue grill.

Stayed at this property?
Martindale, Texas, United States
13.03 km (8.1 mi) from Stokes Park
55 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Tiny home 3 Beds 2 Guests 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
my kids enjoyed the wifi and tv
very comfortable and nice quiet area
Cleanliness:
nice clean accommodations
clean neat and lots of extra towels
it was very clean and well stocked with bedding and towels
great place and so clean
the place was very clean and well thought out
Host:
jeremy is an awesome host
jeremy was a great host and responded quickly to any questions
jeremey is truly an outstanding host and it shows in all of the little details sprinkled throughout his home
the house was fantastic :) jeremey was extremely accommodating for our weekend getaway
Location:
it’s in a relaxing quiet location very close to the san marcos river
great location if you’re floating the river for the weekend :)
we had an amazing stay at this cozy place definitely the perfect location for a relaxing weekend getaway
i would only recommend this place if you are traveling thru and need a quick affordable place to stay
great place to stay i loved it
Read more reviews

10. Quiet cabin for two by the river

If a quiet home for two is what you want for your next holiday, then this beautiful wooden cabin is for you. Right as you enter, the living room with a large TV and sofa set welcomes you. You can also make use of the kitchen, which comes with an island counter and basic cooking essentials. Home comforts like a washer, dryer, and work desk occupy the rest of the kitchen space. At the other end of the home, you can find the bedroom and bathroom. Besides the soft double bed, the bedroom features a large TV for entertainment and air-conditioning to help you sleep a lot more soundly at night.

Stayed at this property?
Martindale, Texas, United States
13.28 km (8.3 mi) from Stokes Park
29 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Entire cabin 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
i slept better than i had slept in a while (bed was super comfy)
Cleanliness:
we appreciated the cleanliness and modern touches
great place for a getaway highly recommend - super cozy cabin fine touches and very clean
a cute brand new very clean and comfortable tiny home in the country
Host:
thank you for being a great host
Read more reviews

Enjoy an adventure in nature by San Marcos River

Sitting right between the major cities of San Antonio and Austin, the San Marcos River is a natural wonder that residents of nearby towns can be proud of. With endemic wildlife, cool waters, and lush forest cover, it’s no surprise the river is frequented by adventurers and tourists alike. If you’re planning your own adventure in San Marcos, Texas, be sure to check out these great options to help you feel right at home.

Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Aly is an ever-curious wanderer who enjoys constantly learning and exploring the world. With more than five years of experience as a travel writer based in Manila, she enjoys writing about her...Read more

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