What to Pack for Your Frio River Trip
So you've decided to make the trip to the Frio River — great choice! Whether it's your first time or your tenth, packing smart makes all the difference between a good trip and a great one. As locals right here in Leakey, we've seen it all, and we're sharing our tried-and-true packing list so you can hit the water worry-free.
Stop by Rustic Frio at 143 US Highway 83 before you head to the river — we carry many of the essentials on this list!
Footwear: The Most Important Decision You'll Make
The Frio River bottom is rocky and uneven, so the right shoes matter more than you'd think. We're big fans of Hey Dude shoes for river trips — they're lightweight, comfortable, and dry quickly. They're perfect for walking from your campsite to the water, navigating rocky river crossings, and exploring Leakey's local shops afterward. For around your camp and cabin we recommend Archies they are the perfect flip-flop with great support.
Bags & Storage
You'll want to keep your valuables dry, especially if you're tubing. A waterproof bag is non-negotiable. We love these Float Pouches for their watertight durability — they're great for keeping your phone, money, and credit cards from floating downstream. Bring a larger tote we love the Swig bags for hauling towels, sunscreen, and gear from the car to the river.
Sun Protection
The Texas Hill Country sun is no joke, especially when you're on the water all day. Pack:
- Sunscreen — SPF 50 or higher, and reapply every two hours
- Sunglasses — polarized lenses are ideal for cutting glare off the water and our Goodr sunglasses are economical, polarized, no slip and perfect for floating the river
- A wide-brim hat — your face and neck will thank you
- A lightweight long-sleeve shirt — great for extra sun coverage while tubing we love these Burlebo performance shirts!
Hygiene & Sanitizing
When you're camping or spending the day at the river, access to soap and water isn't always convenient. Touchland hand sanitizer is a game-changer — it's compact, effective, and smells amazing. Toss one in your bag for before meals, after restroom stops, and anytime you need a quick refresh. It's one of our favorite products at Rustic Frio for exactly this reason.
Clothing Essentials
Pack light, breathable clothing that dries quickly. A few key pieces:
- Swimsuit (bring two so one can dry while you wear the other)
- Comfortable shorts and casual tops for exploring town
- A light jacket or hoodie for cool evenings — Hill Country nights can surprise you!
- Comfortable walking shoes for hiking trails around Garner State Park
River Day Essentials
Don't forget these practical must-haves:
- Plenty of water — stay hydrated, especially in summer heat
- Snacks — granola bars, trail mix, and fruit travel well
- A tube or floatie — many outfitters in Concan & Leakey rent these
- Waterproof phone case — for capturing those gorgeous river memories
- Cash — some local spots and outfitters are cash-only
- First aid kit — for minor scrapes on rocky river banks
For Overnight Stays & Camping
If you're camping at Garner State Park or staying at one of the many river camps in the area, add these to your list:
- Insect repellent (mosquitoes love the river at dusk)
- Headlamp or flashlight
- Reusable water bottle
- Camp chair and blanket for stargazing
Forgot Something? We've Got You Covered!
Even the best packers forget something. If you arrive in Leakey and realize you're missing a key item, swing by Rustic Frio on US Highway 83. We carry a curated selection of river-ready essentials, comfortable clothing, accessories, and unique gifts. We're locally owned and love helping visitors make the most of their Frio River experience.
Now go enjoy that beautiful, cold water — you've earned it!