Swimming Holes

Photo: Wimberley Parks & Recreation (official website)

Spring-fed swimming holes are Texas summer at its best. Many now need reservations, and swimming can close because of bacteria, drought or flooding. Always check the same morning. Kids should wear life jackets in natural water. Timing: Mainly May through September (some year-round).

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   Photo: Downtown Austin / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)

   Barton Springs Pool

   Zilker / Barton SpringsYear-roundFee spring break–Oct

   68–70°F all year, right in town.

   Website SourceSee in the guide
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   Photo: Mkettler / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)

   Deep Eddy Pool

   CentralYear-roundFee in season

   The oldest pool in Texas, with a zero-depth shallow end.

   Website SourceSee in the guide
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   Photo: Eric in SF / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)

   Hamilton Pool Preserve

   Dripping SpringsYear-round by reservation$12 reservation per vehicle + cash entry; kids 12 & under free

   Reservations are required. Swimming depends on bacteria levels and rain and is NOT guaranteed. Water can drop below 50°F in winter.

   Website SourceSee in the guide
4. 

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   Photo: Wimberley Parks & Recreation (official website)

   Blue Hole Regional Park

   May 1 – Labor Day daily, plus Sept weekends (resumes May 1, 2027)From $15 half-day

   Cypress-shaded spring-fed swimming. Reservations required for half-day sessions (9am–1pm or 2–6pm).

   Website Source
5. 

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   Larry D. Moore / CC BY 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons

   Krause Springs

   Check the official site for hours and seasonAdmission (check site)

   A private swimming hole with natural and man-made pools. We couldn't load the pricing page.

   Website Source
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   Photo: Larry D. Moore / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 4.0)

   McKinney Falls State Park

   SoutheastYear-round, conditions permittingState park entry fee; see listing

   Swim near the falls in town. Check TPWD for water conditions.

   Website SourceSee in the guide
7. Photo coming soon

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   Jacob's Well Natural Area

   Hiking onlySee county

   Closed to swimming until further notice (per search results; the Hays County page blocked our check). Still a great short hike.

   Website Source

Dates and prices change — please confirm with each place before you go.

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Seasonal guide

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Seasonal guide

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Seasonal guide

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