Like every Texan the past couple weeks, we are just blown away by the 100 degree temps that unfortunately make our beloved summer activities of patio bars, rooftop brunches and picnics at the park sweaty and brutal. If there isn’t water involved, you can simply count us out. Luckily, Texas has some gorgeous and refreshing watering holes throughout the state that are the perfect day or weekend destination! (and reasonably priced!)

If you are up for a little drive, these are all worth the trip! As always - plan ahead, read the rules, stay hydrated and be safe!

Updated June 2023


 

HAMILTON POOL

HAMILTON POOL

 

Considered the most amazing swimming hole in Texas with lush green vegetation, a small beach, and an enclosed swimming hole for all to enjoy! Things book up quickly so be sure to make a res!

Dripping Springs 

Photo courtesy of Hamilton Pool


 

PEDERNALES FALLS STATE PARK

PEDERNALES FALLS STATE PARK

 

Hike .25 miles to a crystal-clear river perfect for swimming, tubing, canoeing or kayaking! Entrance guaranteed with reservation. You can also hike, bike, horseback ride, camp and more!

Johnson City

Photo courtesy of Pedernales Falls 


 

KRAUSE SPRINGS

krause springs

 

A private swimming hole, open to the public, nestled in the Texas Hill Country! And the good news…they are never closed due to droughts! So it’s time to grab your crew and get swimming! 

Spicewood

Photo courtesy of Krause Springs- Tribeza


 

BLUE HOLE REGIONAL PARK

BLUE HOLE REGIONAL PARK

 

A natural, spring-fed swimming hole lined with the iconic Cypress Trees located deep in the heart of the Texas Hill Country. Swimming requires reservations, but all other recreational amenities are free to the public! 

Wimberley

Photo courtesy of Blue Hole 


 

BARTON SPRINGS POOL

BARTON SPRINGS

 

Hidden within Zilker Park, find this 3 acre natural swimming pool that stays at a refreshing ~70 degrees year round but somehow feels colder than that!

Austin


 

MCKINNEY FALLS

Mckinney Falls State Park

 

Beautiful falls, great hiking, and fun swimming. Just 10 minutes from downtown Austin with $6 entry! Swim in the upper or lower falls, hike one of the 9 trails, camp at one of the 80 sites, plus other fun activities.

Austin 

Photo courtesy of Mckinney Falls


 

HIPPIE HOLLOW

HIPPIE HOLLOW

 

Beautiful, secluded cove on the shores of Lake Travis, and a popular swimming hole in Texas. Also, it’s the only clothing optional public park in Texas..hence the name!

Austin 

Photo courtesy of Hippie Hollow


 

DEVIL’S WATERHOLE

DEVILS WATERINGHOLE

 

Located in Inks Lake State Park an hour NW of Austin, hike the small canyon, swim, fish, canoe, or jump the cliffs. Reservations required

Burnet

Photo courtesy of Devil's Watering Hole


 

BLANCO STATE PARK

blanco state park

 

North of San Antonio, this state park stretches along a dam with a beautiful lagoon and cascading waterfall. You can also float in the river or swim in the man-made pool.

Blanco

Photo courtesy of Blanco State Park


 

DEVIL'S RIVER STATE NATURAL AREA

Devils River

 

One of the most pristine & remote rivers in TX hidden in the deep southwest by Del Rio. Hike one mile from parking to the spring-fed water and enjoy swimming, fishing and paddling along the scenic canyons!

Photo courtesy of Devil's River


 

GARNER STATE PARK

GARNER STATE PARK

 

Tube or swim in the crystalline waters of the Frio River that wind through Garner State Park. Plus hike along 16 miles of trails, camp, picnic, canoe, fish, play miniature golf, geocache or ride bikes!

Concan

Photo courtesy of Garner State Park


 

JACOB'S WELL

jacob well

 

*Note as of June 26, 2023 Jacob's Well is closed for swimming until further notice* A beautiful artisan spring with limestone cliffs & vegetation. There's also plenty to do if you're not jumping in for a swim, hiking is open daily (recommended between 8am - 10am to beat the heat and crowds).

Wimberley

Photo courtesy of Jacob's Well


 

SWIMMING HOLE AT NEAL’S LODGE

swimming hole at Neal's lodge

 

This spot at the Frio River is a popular spot for guests to float and relax in the spring-fed water that is ALWAYS clear blue, no matter the depth! Plus, there’s a massive river slide, however note that many of the activities are available for peak season only. After your day on the water, head over to Joe Jimmy's for live music 3-4 nights a week, plus karaoke (p.s. it is kid friendly)!

Concan

Photo courtesy of Neal’s Lodge​


 

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