Float Down The World's Longest Natural Lazy River At This Thrilling Texas Waterpark

It's hard to imagine a more relaxing activity than tubing: You recline in a (literal) cushion of air and let the current guide you down a stream. No engine, no oars, no wetsuit. The most strenuous movement tubers will make is raising drinks to their lips or maybe paddling the water with a foot to turn the inflatable donut in a more picturesque direction. All a tuber requires on a hot day is a little shade and an occasional refill.

The Lone Star State is known for its tubing runs, such as the San Marcos River in Austin or the crystal clear water of Chalk Bluff River Park near San Antonio. But if you're a little skittish around actual nature — with its slippery mud and aquatic critters — consider a visit to Waco Surf, a vast waterpark just 20 minutes outside of, yes, Waco, Texas. Plenty of parks have lazy rivers, but Waco Surf's takes the world record at 5,280 feet, or precisely 1 mile.

Lined with masonry and partially covered by trees, the lazy river looks like a narrow canal cut through dry grassland. The park provides round blue tubes with backed seating, and riders can either settle in and enjoy the ride or wear the tubes around their trunks like a life preserver. The water is generally shallow enough to stand up in, so you don't have to be a competitive swimmer to feel safe. The lazy river is most popular with adults, as tubers who are 21 or older can consume alcohol on their rides. Better yet, you can bring your own libations — and pack them in your own cooler.

Founded in 2002 as Barefoot Ski Ranch Cable Park, Waco Surf is popular among families looking to cool off and adult weekenders in search of a boozy escape. As long as you drink responsibly and properly hydrate on sultry days, you can continue the easygoing bacchanal at several on-site venues, such as the Dive Bar, the Wedge Grill, and the Saloon. Waco Surf is deep in the heart of Texas — about 250 miles from the Gulf of Mexico, the closest major body of water — so this place is something of an oasis for vacationers. When it comes to Texas, a road trip is the best way to see all the hidden gems it has to offer, and Waco Surf is certainly one of those gems.

But why is it called Waco Surf? Owning the longest artificial lazy river in the world is pretty cool, but Waco Surf is most famous for its epic wave pool, which serious surfers use to practice their skills. The waves are designed for every skill level, allowing rookies to take their first lessons or lifelong surfers to hang ten through bona fide barrels. Water skiers and wakeboarders can also use the "cable park," which enables you to grope a handle and coast through the water with no need for a boat or bay.

Waco Surf also has lots of activities in between these two extremes, including a beach, cabanas, and the famous "wedge waterslides," whose ramps hurl riders far into the air before they plunge safely into a deep pool. Fans can stay the night at one of the park's cabins, RV spots, or in the official Waco Surf Hotel. If you're planning to sleep in Waco itself, consider staying in this luxury hotel from HGTV's Chip and Joanna Gaines.