Regardless of where you are in Texas, we’ve compiled the top swimming spots here to offer you one of the most enjoyable methods of spending a hot summer day. These locations provide breathtaking scenery, enjoyable family activities, and numerous chances to connect with nature everywhere.
Barton Springs Pool
With over 8,000 reviews and nearly five stars overall on Google, it’s safe to say Texans love Barton Springs Pool! The swimming area is three acres in size and is fueled by subterranean springs with an optimum year-round swimming temperature of 68 to 70 degrees. Barton Springs Pool has attracted visitors and all kinds of people throughout the years, including politicians who have created state legislation there and free-spirited, bare-chested beachgoers who made a splash years ago! The pool has grassy sitting areas surrounding it and has a depth range of 0 to 18 feet. Tuesday through Sunday from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. are the only days it is open.
Hamilton Pool Preserve
Many people believe Texas’s Hamilton Pool to be the state’s best swimming hole because it is so breathtaking. A modest beach, a swimming hole that is protected and fed by a waterfall, and other picturesque features make the area absolutely captivating. It’s a terrific spot for relaxing, picnicking, and cooling down in the crystal-clear water. Bring a picnic since there are no services there. Hamilton Pool has a daily visitor limitation and frequently fills to capacity, particularly on weekends and holidays. To guarantee a position in the sun at Hamilton Pool, book ahead online ahead of time. The only drawback is that Hamilton Pool does not usually permit swimming. According to the number of germs in the water, there are risks. The water is tested daily to see if it’s safe enough for swimmers. However, even if you are unable to swim on the day of your booking, you should still go because the Hamilton Pool sight is magnificent. It is worth the drive even if you are unable to swim, and you can always go to the nearby Reimer’s Ranch later to cool off at the lovely Pedernales River.
Balmorhea State Park
A haven from the neighboring West Texas desert, the Balmorhea State Park pool’s enticing blue-green waters. But this pool is not like others. The biggest spring-fed swimming pool in the entire world is where you’ll land if you jump off the diving area. This 1.75-acre pool receives a daily water flow of more than 15 million gallons, ensuring that the water is always pristine. One of the best things about this spot is that the water is clear enough for visitors to enjoy snorkeling and scuba diving. It’s 25 feet deep, making it the perfect place to spend a summer’s day in the Lone Star State. The water temperature is maintained year-round at 72 to 76 degrees. There’s camping in the area as well, for those interested in longer trips!
Krause Springs
Visit a blend of 32 natural springs, a swimming hole, and even a cascade if you find it difficult to settle on just one aquatic location. Just south of Austin, Krause Springs is unquestionably one of Texas’ most picturesque swimming places. The Krause Family founded Krause Springs back in 1955. The 115-acre park features stunningly green scenery and crystal-clear lakes. There are many man-made pools on the property, and swimming is permitted in each of the on-site springs. The pools are continuously spring-fed, which keeps the water at a balmy 68 degrees throughout the day and year. Additionally, the springs guarantee that the swim holes never dry up. Visitors have access to a wide range of activities, including swimming, climbing, and exploring the property’s butterfly garden. In Texas, Krause Springs is unquestionably one of the greatest natural swimming spots.
Devil’s Waterhole
Have you been to Inks Lake State Park to cool off in the well-known Devil’s Waterhole? Inks Lake State Park in Burnet, Texas, approximately 50 miles northwest of Austin, is a stunning Hill Country treasure well-known for picnicking, hiking, boating, canoeing, beautiful sunsets, and of course leaping over rocks into the chilly waters of the Devil’s Waterhole. You can visit this lake year-round and go swimming on any day when the weather is warm enough because the water in it originates from the Colorado River and typically doesn’t change. On the northeastern section of the park, Devil’s Waterhole is a well-liked natural swimming hole surrounded by stunning rock formations. The large rocks in the park with ledges towering up to 40 feet above the surface can be found in this swimming area. Despite the fact that swimming and diving are allowed at the waterhole, you must swim at your own risk because there is no lifeguard on duty.
Jacob’s Well
The entrance to Texas’ largest network of underwater caves is located near Jacobs Wells. Even though the hole is just 12 feet across, nature has skillfully designed it to have a splash point that is deep enough, 35 feet, for those who dare to jump off the rocks above. The water is crystal clear, making where you plan to land clearly visible. If you choose not to take part in this adrenaline junkie behavior, the shallows and the nearby trees’ shade will keep you cool. Because this is a smaller area, we suggest making reservations ahead of time to ensure you can enjoy the water! The cave does draw divers who enjoy exploring it past the entrance, but only seasoned swimmers with the proper training and gear should even think about what lies below.
Pedernales Falls State Park
Our current favorite place to dip your toes is Pedernales Falls. This location is stunning. It’s home to the Pedernales River, which is so clear that it’s a fantastic place to beat the heat in Texas during the summer. It’s important to mention that you cannot swim behind the falls. The scenery of the river is equally stunning, featuring turquoise waters and beautiful beaches along the riverbank. Pedernales Falls State Park is an ideal location for camping and is an attraction in and of itself. Furthermore, it’s also near the Hamilton Pool area, so a weekend summertime excursion from Dallas can easily include visits to both places.
Guadalupe River State Park
Although a lot of people go here to swim, the park offers much more than a beautiful swimming hole. Within a short drive of San Antonio and Austin, breathtaking scenery and interesting history are waiting. If you’ve had a long week, bring a tube and relax as you float on the water! The Guadalupe River dominates the park with four miles of water shoreline. To find the regions with more peace and quiet, get away from the river and into the woods. Visitors enjoy swimming, fishing, and canoeing down the river. There are several alternatives for paddling expeditions when the water levels are sufficient. The new 5-mile Guadalupe River State Park Paddling Trail begins in the park and provides a scenic path through the water. After a long day on the water, you can go camping, hiking, horseback riding, picnicking, geocaching, and bird watching. The park also offers fishing equipment to visitors of the park. It’s important to mention that styrofoam and glass are not allowed at Guadalupe River State Park.
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