The green valleys of the Texas hill country are known for their flowing rivers and tributaries. As the lakes rise this summer, the springs are full and the water is perfect. It’s heating up outside so take some time to cool off in one of the best swimming holes in Texas.
Barton Springs Pool
One of the largest non-chlorinated spring-fed pools in the country, Barton Springs Pool is the most popular swimming hole in Austin. Even on the hottest days, you can rest assured the water will be cool, clear and clean.
Hamilton Pool
Fed by a 50-foot waterfall, Hamilton Pool is one of the most coveted natural pools in Texas. As a conservation not a park, Hamilton Pool takes preservation very seriously. In that effort, a reservation is now required to book your 3.5 hour swim time. Click here to make your reservation online or call (512) 854-PARK (7275).
The Greenbelt
Discover one of the most popular spots along Barton Creek, just east of the Loop 360 access point. There are plenty of shallow areas to let the kiddos splash around, so grab some hiking shoes and take a stroll out to the Greenbelt.
McKinney Falls State Park
You won’t regret taking the short drive to McKinney State Park. McKinney Falls has two different areas for swimming, the Lower Falls and the Upper Falls, and is open daily from 8 am-10 pm.
Krause Springs
A sanctuary hidden among the trees,
Krause Springs is quite an enchanting place. Waterfalls pour off the rock faces from 32 springs and into two pools for swimming. If that weren’t enough, there’s a butterfly garden and plenty of natural wonders to explore.
Pace Bend Park
Down the winding roads to Spicewood, Texas you will find
Pace Bend Park. Surrounded by Lake Travis, boating is very popular; the best places to swim are Mudd Cover and Gracy Cove, which are swimming-only areas.
Deep Eddy Pool
With water filtered in from the Colorado River,
Deep Eddy Pool stays cool all summer long. A top pick for kids, pack your lunch, relax by the pool and enjoy one of the most popular spots in Austin.
Jacob’s Well
This gem is tucked a few miles away in Wimberley, Texas. Much loved by all, steps have been taken to preserve the area. Reserve your swimming slot on the Hays County website as only 300 people are allowed to swim in
Jacob’s Well per day.
Georgetown Blue Hole
Steep cliffs overlook the deep water of
Georgetown’s Blue Hole at this bend in the San Gabriel River. Jump from the cliffs, or lounge in a tube in the warm water. Make a day of it and get there early to grab one of the few covered patios in the shade of the trees.
And most importantly, don’t forget your sunscreen!
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