New Braunfels is beautiful and rich in culture. Founded in 1845 by German settlers, the city retains its Little Germany charm while offering two of the most beloved rivers in Texas: the spring-fed Comal River and the Guadalupe River. Add in the world-famous Schlitterbahn Waterpark, historic Gruene, and a thriving food and music scene, and you have a recipe for an unforgettable vacation.
This guide covers the top 20 resorts and lodging destinations in New Braunfels, Texas, from the iconic Resort at Schlitterbahn to boutique cottages, riverside retreats, and well-located hotels.
Top 20 Resorts in New Braunfels Texas
1. The Resort at Schlitterbahn
The Resort at Schlitterbahn is the flagship lodging destination in New Braunfels, offering unmatched access to the world’s best waterpark. The resort is situated on the banks of the Comal River and provides six distinct accommodation styles, ranging from basic hotel rooms to multi-room vacation homes.
Guests can choose from the classic Resort at the Bahn, the upscale SchlitterStein Lofts near downtown, the unique Treehaus Luxury Suites with hand-carved furniture, the Riverbend Cabins directly connected to the Blastenhoff section, the Condos at Boogie Bay in the heart of the action, or spacious vacation homes with full kitchens and multiple bedrooms.
2. WorldMark New Braunfels
WorldMark New Braunfels is a highly-rated resort located in the Texas Hill Country, just an eight-minute drive from Schlitterbahn Waterpark. This property offers spacious apartments with full kitchens, laundry facilities, and modern amenities including cable TV and DVD players.
Guests can enjoy the outdoor pool, hot tub, fitness center, game room, and BBQ facilities. The resort has received excellent user ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience, making it a strong choice for families and couples alike.
3. Sun Retreats Texas Hill Country
Sun Retreats Texas Hill Country offers fully furnished cottages on 32 acres of lush, rolling grounds just ten minutes from Schlitterbahn Water Park. The property features two indoor pools, an outdoor pool with a hot tub, and a fitness center.
Each cottage includes a fully equipped kitchen, private patio with BBQ facilities, and a flat-screen cable TV. Families love the game room, children’s playground, and two large recreation halls. The resort also offers foam parties and splash pad fun that guests consistently praise. For RV travelers, the resort offers full hook-up sites alongside the cottage rentals.
4. Camp Fimfo Texas Hill Country
Camp Fimfo is a Texas-sized retreat located on the Guadalupe River, offering a unique blend of outdoor adventure and comfortable accommodations. This family-friendly resort features a water park, multiple pools, and a range of accommodation options from RV sites to cabins.
The property is known for its fun atmosphere and activities for all ages, making it a popular choice for families seeking an active, outdoor-focused vacation.
5. Rio Guadalupe Resort
Rio Guadalupe Resort is a riverfront RV park and cabin resort featuring a quarter-mile of private Guadalupe River frontage. This property offers a more rustic, nature-focused experience while still providing comfortable accommodations.
It is an excellent choice for travelers who want direct river access for tubing, fishing, and swimming, combined with the convenience of a resort setting.
6. River Ranch RV Resort
River Ranch RV Resort is a highly-rated five-star RV park nestled in the scenic Hill Country between San Antonio and Austin. The resort offers spacious sites and modern amenities in a peaceful, natural setting.
It is a top choice for RV travelers seeking a premium camping experience near New Braunfels’ attractions.
7. KL Ranch Camp On The River
KL Ranch Camp is a family-owned and operated campground with over seventy years of experience, situated on seven acres of stunning riverfront property.
The camp offers a classic Texas river experience with direct access to the Guadalupe River. It is ideal for families who want a traditional camping adventure with all the fun of river tubing and swimming.
8. Camp Huaco Springs
Camp Huaco Springs is one of the largest and most beautiful campground facilities on the Guadalupe River, located at the First Crossing on River Road.
The campground offers a range of sites and amenities for tents and RVs, with direct river access for tubing and swimming. It is a popular destination for groups and families seeking a fun, social camping experience.
9. Hacienda del Rio
Hacienda del Rio is a riverfront property that has been celebrated for its picturesque location and ongoing renovation into a modern, inviting destination. The hotel offers direct river access, a refreshing pool, a volleyball court, and inviting fire pits for evening relaxation. Guests consistently highlight the cleanliness of the rooms, the comfortable accommodations, and the exceptionally friendly staff.
The on-site bar is popular for its margaritas, and the property is just a short drive from the historic Gruene district. With its retro decor and rain showers, Hacienda del Rio offers a unique blend of nostalgia and modern comfort.
10. Courtyard by Marriott New Braunfels River Village
The Courtyard by Marriott New Braunfels River Village is a riverside hotel offering an outdoor swimming pool, a private beach area, and a terrace overlooking the water. Guests praise the beautiful rooms with balcony views of the river.
The hotel provides a comfortable, contemporary stay with easy access to both downtown New Braunfels and the Guadalupe River. It is a solid choice for travelers who want a well-known brand with a scenic setting.
11. Gruene River Hotel and Retreat
The Gruene River Hotel and Retreat is a charming property located in the historic Gruene district, offering scenic river access and a relaxing atmosphere. Guests love the scenery, the pool table, and the peaceful setting. The hotel provides a comfortable base for exploring Gruene’s shops, restaurants, and the famous Gruene Hall.
12. Lamb’s Rest Inn
Lamb’s Rest Inn is a bed-and-breakfast style property that guests describe as a wonderful place to stay for a restful vacation. Located in a peaceful setting, the inn offers comfortable accommodations and personalized service. It is an excellent choice for couples seeking a romantic getaway or travelers who prefer a quieter, more intimate lodging experience.
13. Gruene Cottages
Gruene Cottages offers cozy, individual cottages in a serene setting close to everything New Braunfels has to offer. Guests describe the property as very serene and close to everything. The cottages provide a home-like atmosphere with modern conveniences, making them ideal for couples and small families.
14. Comal Inn
Comal Inn is consistently ranked as the number one hotel in New Braunfels based on guest reviews. Located near the Comal River, this property offers comfortable accommodations and excellent service. Guests describe their stays as great and consistently praise the location. It is a top choice for travelers who want quality accommodations in a convenient location.
15. Gruene Daze Chalet
Gruene Daze Chalet is a stylish A-frame cabin that offers a unique, luxury escape. Guests describe the property as complete luxury and appreciate the distinctive design. This vacation rental is ideal for couples or small families seeking a one-of-a-kind stay in the Hill Country.
16. The Village at Gruene
The Village at Gruene offers vacation rentals with a seasonal outdoor pool and garden, located less than a mile from Gruene. These properties provide spacious, well-appointed accommodations for families and groups. The location is convenient to both the historic Gruene district and the Guadalupe River.
17. Gruene Lake Haus
Gruene Lake Haus is a modern A-frame vacation rental with a fire pit, offering a peaceful retreat with lake views. Guests praise the spacious accommodations and great amenities. It is an excellent choice for families or groups seeking a private, scenic getaway.
18. Guadalupe Getaway
Guadalupe Getaway is a well-appointed vacation rental offering beautiful views of the river and open land beyond. Guests love the bird watching and wildlife viewing opportunities. The property features comfortable living spaces, a full kitchen for cooking, and easy access to everything in New Braunfels and Gruene.
19. Texas Hill Country Resort
Texas Hill Country Resort offers a unique alternative to traditional hotels, combining the privacy of a cabin with resort-style amenities. Located just a short drive from Historic Gruene, the resort features an infinity pool, hot tub, scenic hiking trails, fire pits, and a recreation hall.
Accommodation options include pet-friendly cabins, glamping bunkhouses, a spacious Ranch House for groups, and RV and tent sites. It is an excellent choice for travelers who want the charm of Hill Country living with easy access to Gruene’s attractions.
20. D and R Rivercity RV Resort
D and R Rivercity RV Resort offers a well-equipped RV resort experience with an outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, and game room featuring billiards and table tennis. Located in New Braunfels, the resort provides a comfortable base for RV travelers exploring the Hill Country. It is a good option for those who want resort amenities while traveling by RV.
COMPARISON TABLE: Top Places to Stay in New Braunfels & Gruene, Texas
| Property | Type | Best For | Key Feature | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Resort at Schlitterbahn | Resort | Families, waterpark lovers | Multiple accommodation styles with waterpark access | Medium-High |
| WorldMark New Braunfels | Resort | Families, couples | Spacious apartment-style units with full kitchens | Medium |
| Sun Retreats Texas Hill Country | RV Resort & Cottages | Families, RV travelers | Two indoor pools, splash pad, cottages | Medium |
| Camp Fimfo Texas Hill Country | Resort & Campground | Families, outdoor enthusiasts | Guadalupe River access and on-site water attractions | Medium |
| Rio Guadalupe Resort | RV Park & Cabins | River lovers | Private Guadalupe River frontage | Low-Medium |
| River Ranch RV Resort | RV Resort | RV travelers | Premium RV facilities in the Hill Country | Medium |
| KL Ranch Camp On The River | Campground | Campers and families | Family-owned riverfront campground | Low |
| Camp Huaco Springs | Campground | Groups and tubing enthusiasts | Direct river access and tubing activities | Low |
| Hacienda del Rio | Hotel | Families, couples | Riverfront setting with retro charm | Medium |
| Courtyard River Village | Hotel | Business and leisure travelers | River views and private beach area | Medium |
| Gruene River Hotel & Retreat | Hotel | Couples, Gruene visitors | River access and proximity to Gruene attractions | Medium |
| Lamb’s Rest Inn | Bed & Breakfast | Couples, romantic escapes | Quiet atmosphere and personalized service | Medium |
| Gruene Cottages | Cottages | Couples and small families | Peaceful setting near Gruene Historic District | Medium |
| Comal Inn | Hotel | All travelers | Highly rated location near Comal River | Medium |
| Gruene Daze Chalet | Vacation Rental | Couples | Stylish A-frame architecture and luxury finishes | Medium-High |
| The Village at Gruene | Vacation Rentals | Families and groups | Pool and walkable Gruene location | Medium |
| Gruene Lake Haus | Vacation Rental | Families and groups | Lake views and outdoor gathering space | Medium-High |
| Guadalupe Getaway | Vacation Rental | Nature lovers | River views and wildlife watching | Medium |
| Texas Hill Country Resort | Resort & Campground | Groups and reunions | Infinity pool, cabins, and bunkhouses | Medium |
| D & R Rivercity RV Resort | RV Resort | RV travelers | Pool, fitness center, and game room | Low-Medium |
Tips For Understanding
1. The Resort at Schlitterbahn Is the Only True Destination Resort
If you are specifically seeking a resort experience with a waterpark, multiple dining options, and extensive on-site activities, The Resort at Schlitterbahn is your primary choice in New Braunfels. Other properties on this list are excellent hotels and resorts, but they operate more as upscale lodging than as comprehensive destination resorts.
2. River Access Is a Defining Feature
Many of New Braunfels’ best properties are located on or near the Comal River or Guadalupe River. From The Resort at Schlitterbahn and Hacienda del Rio to Rio Guadalupe Resort and Camp Huaco Springs, river access provides tubing, swimming, and fishing opportunities that enhance any stay.
3. Location Matters for Different Activities
If your visit centers on Schlitterbahn Waterpark, The Resort at Schlitterbahn and Sun Retreats Texas Hill Country are the most convenient choices. For exploring Historic Gruene, consider Gruene River Hotel and Retreat, Gruene Cottages, or Texas Hill Country Resort. For downtown New Braunfels, Comal Inn and the Courtyard River Village offer excellent access.
4. Book Early for Peak Seasons
New Braunfels is a popular summer destination, especially during tubing season and Schlitterbahn’s peak operating months. RV parks and campgrounds fill up quickly, as do the cottages and cabins at Sun Retreats and Texas Hill Country Resort. Book your accommodations well in advance to secure the best options and rates.
5. RV Travelers Have Excellent Options
New Braunfels is a top destination for RV travelers, with numerous well-equipped RV resorts. Sun Retreats Texas Hill Country offers full hook-up sites alongside its cottages. Camp Fimfo, Rio Guadalupe Resort, River Ranch RV Resort, and D and R Rivercity RV Resort all provide excellent amenities for RVers.
6. Consider Cottages and Cabins for a Home-Like Experience
Several properties on this list offer cottage or cabin accommodations that provide more space and privacy than traditional hotel rooms. Sun Retreats, Gruene Cottages, and Texas Hill Country Resort all offer individual units with kitchens and living areas, ideal for families and longer stays.
7. The Comal and Guadalupe Rivers Are the Heart of the Experience
Whether you stay at a riverfront resort or a hotel a few minutes away, the rivers are the centerpiece of a New Braunfels vacation. Tubing, swimming, and floating are quintessential Texas summer activities. Many resorts offer direct river access, and numerous outfitters provide tube rentals and shuttle services.
Closing
New Braunfels offers a remarkable range of lodging options for every type of traveler, from the iconic Resort at Schlitterbahn with its waterpark access and six accommodation styles to peaceful RV resorts, cozy cottages, and riverside retreats. Whether you are seeking a family waterpark vacation, a romantic Hill Country getaway, or a fun-filled tubing adventure with friends, this Texas gem has a resort to match your needs.
The beauty of New Braunfels lies in its unique blend of German heritage, natural beauty, and world-class entertainment. You can spend your days floating the Comal River, exploring the historic Gruene district, or conquering the slides at Schlitterbahn. In the evenings, you can relax at a riverside cabin, enjoy dinner at a local German restaurant, or take in live music at Gruene Hall.
For families, The Resort at Schlitterbahn and Sun Retreats Texas Hill Country provide the space, amenities, and convenience that make traveling with children easier. For couples, properties like Gruene Daze Chalet, Lamb’s Rest Inn, and Hacienda del Rio offer romantic, character-filled getaways. And for RV travelers and outdoor enthusiasts, the numerous RV resorts and campgrounds provide well-equipped bases for exploring the region.
Whether you are planning a weekend escape, a summer vacation, or a tubing trip with friends, New Braunfels promises fun, relaxation, and memories that will last a lifetime. Book early, pack your sunscreen and river shoes, and get ready to experience the best of the Texas Hill Country.
