In a place whose temperatures can reach as high as they do in a Texas summer, you need good strategies to keep cool. Luckily, Texas is home to some breathtaking (and relief-bringing) natural places to swim. Take a look below to discover some of the most incredible swimming holes in Texas. Â
Stunning Swimming Holes in Texas
The Texas Hill Country stands out for its spectacular natural beauty, and these central Texas swimming holes are no different.
Barton Springs Pool
You’ll discover a gorgeous three-acre, spring-fed pool perfect for cooling down in when you pay a visit here. This is one of the top attractions in Austin, and over the years has drawn all manner of visitors, including a young Robert Redford, who learned to swim here!
The natural limestone pool ranges in depth from shallow to 18’, making it a great spot for both those who want to swim or who just want to wade in and cool down. Surrounding the pool, there are plenty of grassy areas for you to lounge and rest. Since Barton Springs Pool enjoys a steady supply of water from the Edwards Aquifer, it remains a constant 68 degrees.
Blanco State Park
Blanco State Park comprises just over 100 acres along a one-mile stretch of the beautiful spring-fed Blanco River. You can swim anywhere along the river, and if you’d like to float on the surface, tube rentals are available from the park store.
In addition to swimming in the river, you can take a boat out onto the water or go fishing. On the land, you can hike through the lovely Texas Hill Country landscape, keeping an eye out for wildlife and even geocaches as you go.
Blue Hole Regional Park
Cypress trees stretch over the clear, aquamarine waters of the swimming hole at Blue Hole Regional Park in Wimberley. The refreshing waters of the swimming hole are a fantastic place to cool off during the hotter days.
The forested swim spot is an extremely popular attraction, so much so that it is advised you make a reservation to swim. Others parts of the park that don’t require a reservation include volleyball and basketball courts, a picnic area, fire pit, and almost 4 miles of walking trails.
The park is open year-round from 8 a.m. to dusk, but the swimming hole is open seasonally, so be sure to check the Blue Hole Regional Park website before you plan your trip. Â
Hamilton Pool Preserve
When you first discover Hamilton’s Pool Preserve, you’ll feel like you’ve stumbled upon a tropical oasis. Hamilton Creek tumbles over limestone outcroppings and plunges 50 feet into a box canyon, creating a gorgeous waterfall and a wonderful swimming hole.
The natural pool was first created when the roof of an underground river caved in. Consequently, today’s jade green pool is surrounded by a grotto, creating a secluded feel.
The pool is not chemically treated, so the waters are monitored for cleanliness and sometimes closed to swimming. Swimming conditions are also dependent upon recent rainfall, so be sure to check the Hamilton Pool website before you head over. Â
Hamilton Pool is part of the Balcones Canyonlands Preserve, so in addition to a surreal swimming experience, you’ll also be treated to lovely sights of nature, filled with rare flora and fauna.
Jacob’s Well Natural Area
Jacob’s Well is a beautiful artesian spring in Wimberley and serves as the headwaters to Cypress Creek. The waters are crystal clear and enjoy a constant temperature of 68 degrees Fahrenheit—a somewhat chilly plunge, so be sure to brace yourself!
There is an opening in the creek bed that leads to underwater caves, but due to the danger of exploring them, they are now only open to research professionals. Â
As with the other swimming holes in the Texas Hill Country, you’ll need to reserve a spot to swim, and it’s open seasonally (from May through September).
Krause Springs
Come visit this gorgeous site listed on the National Register of Historic Places just 30 miles west of Austin. Once you arrive at Krause Springs, you’ll be mesmerized by the breathtaking natural beauty. This glittering oasis will make you think you’ve been transported to a South American jungle complete with trickling waterfalls, sparkling clear water, and lush vegetation.
As with other swimming holes on this list, Krause Springs enjoys unique benefits from its constant source of spring water. Not only does the temperature remain a steady 68 degrees, but since the spring water flows nonstop, the water never becomes stagnant and is swimmable year-round.
Other Ways to Cool Down
In addition to these gorgeous swimming holes, Texas is also home to several beautiful rivers where you can float lazily along. The Comal River, San Marcos River, Guadalupe River, and Frio River are all places that you can go for an afternoon of tubing. You’ll also find a Schlitterbahn waterpark in New Braunfels filled with slides, water coasters, and more. Â Â
Stay Close By
The Blair House Inn is less than a five-minute drive from Blue Hole Regional Park, about ten minutes from Jacob’s Well, and just under an hour’s drive from Hamilton Pool Preserve.
In addition to being close to these fantastic swimming holes, we’re also near all kinds of other recreation, including other outdoor activities, shopping, and excellent restaurants and breweries.
Wimberley is between Austin and San Antonio, about an hour’s distance away from both. So, whether you’re looking to explore Wimberley or venture further, the Blair House Inn is in the perfect location.
Stay at our inn for a luxurious, relaxing experience you won’t soon forget. Enroll in our cooking school to learn culinary skills (and have fun!). Pamper yourself at our Wimberley Day Spa. Relax by our beautiful pool as you gaze out over the Texas Hill Country. Unwind with a glass of wine in your private sunroom or porch.
Discover the perfect escape with the Blair House Inn. Take a look at all of our exquisite accommodations and book your stay in the beautiful Texas Hill Country today!
