Melrose River Club — Hotel in San Marcos

Review: Melrose River Club, San Marcos , Texas

Nestled in the heart of San Marcos , Texas, the Melrose River Club is a serene haven for those seeking relaxation and outdoor adventures. Situated along the picturesque San Marcos River, this charming retreat offers an idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Upon arrival, guests are greeted by the warm hospitality of the staff, setting the tone for a memorable stay. The accommodations, ranging from cozy cabins to spacious Airstreams are sure to cater to a variety of preferences. Each option is meticulously maintained, ensuring comfort and satisfaction for all guests.

The highlight of the Melrose River Club is undoubtedly its access to the San Marcos River. Whether kayaking, tubing, or simply lounging by the water's edge, there are endless opportunities for outdoor recreation. The crystal-clear waters invite guests to immerse themselves in nature and embrace the tranquility of their surroundings.

For those seeking more land-based activities, the Melrose River Club does not disappoint. Hiking trails wind through the lush foliage, providing breathtaking views of the Texas Hill Country. Additionally, the on-site amenities, including a swimming pool with cabanas, mimosa and bloody mary trailer , and poolside bar offer plenty of opportunities for fun and relaxation.

In terms of dining, the Melrose River Club offers a variety of options to satisfy any palate. From casual barbecue grills to local gourmet restaurants, guests can indulge in delicious cuisine while taking in the scenic views of the river and soaking up some local vibes.

Overall, the Melrose River Club in San Marcos, Texas, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, this charming retreat offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and Southern hospitality. A stay at the Melrose River Club is sure to leave you refreshed, rejuvenated, and eager to return.

And the owners get it. Born and raised nearby, they are truly great entrepreneurs looking to share their...

We booked this spot on Airbnb, drawn in by the Tiny Homes concept, which is becoming more and more popular. These aren’t traditional apartments but converted shipping container homes, a style that’s both modern and efficient.

The location is great, with direct river access, fire pits, and multiple seating areas along the water. Unfortunately, it was too windy for us to enjoy it fully, but in better weather, it’s easy to see how this would be an amazing place to relax. There’s also a pool with a bar, nicely designed, though the artificial grass around the pool felt a bit out of place in such a natural setting.

The staff was incredibly welcoming, greeting us with a complimentary glass of champagne. The entire property is clean, well-maintained, and thoughtfully designed. In addition to the Tiny Homes, there are several vintage Airstreams, one of which functions as a bar (though it was closed during our stay), while others seem to be used during peak seasons.

One important detail—the cabins are extremely close together. If privacy is important to you, take a good look at the layout before booking. The listing photos don’t fully show how tight the spacing is. There’s only a single parking spot between most cabins. If you’re expecting more separation, this could be a surprise.

Another key point—not all cabins are by the river. Ours was near the road, and while it wasn’t a big issue, if you specifically want a riverfront cabin, double-check before booking. These are limited and likely priced higher. The rest are about a 3-4 minute walk from the water.

Overall, it’s a great getaway, but knowing these details in advance will help you set the right...

Searching for an alternative to the chain hotels that seemed to exclusively comprise lodging options in San Marcos, we stumbled across Melrose River Club and turned what could’ve been a mundane weekend away into an escape we won't soon forget.

Melodie and Max have transformed their property into an absolute oasis mere minute from the center of town. The character, convenience and fact that we could bring our pup made the reservation an easy choice, but we were greeted by so much more. We loved feeling a world away from the hustle of San Marcos, staying in a cabin that felt private on a property boasting acres of land dotted with multiple areas to sit and relax (or even enjoy a fire), easy waking trails to the river and private river access. All this to say nothing of the resort-quality pool with full bar, sound, cabanas, TVs--the whole nine yards. In a perfect world, yes, the hot water heater would’ve been larger, but it's funny how quickly you'll forget something like that upon receiving, for example, a text summoning you to enjoy a breakfast taco and mimosa bar in the lobby.

Unquestionably though the standout of our visit was the people. Everyone working at MRC was cheerful and helpful, and Melodie and Max in particular went far, far out of their way to ensure we had a great time—from making sure every possible need was met on-property, to offering recommendations in neighboring towns and just generally being delightful to spend time with. We left feeling not only refreshed but also like we’d made new friends.

We were talking the place up to others back home before we even left and can’t wait to find the next...