Swimming Holes in the Texas Hill Country
When it comes to summer fun in Central Texas there is no shortage of lakes and rivers to cool off in. This means an abundance of swimming holes for you to enjoy. Here is a roundup of 10 refreshing swimming holes in the Texas Hill Country.
- St. Edwards
Located about 20 minutes northwest of Downtown Austin along the Bull Creek Greenbelt Trail lies St. Edwards Park. Known for its shady hiking trails, but particularly its small swimming hole, St. Ed’s features a waterfall and rope swing.
- Jacob’s Well
One of the best swimming holes in Texas is undoubtedly Jacob’s Well. Located just outside Wimberly, the mouth of the springs serves as a popular swimming hole. With underwater caverns ranging in depth from 30 – 137 feet, Jacob’s Well attracts cave and open water divers.
- Barton Creek Pool
Austinites have enjoyed swimming in Barton Creek Pool since the 1800s. Nestled in the heart of Zilker Park, it is the ultimate swimming hole within city limits. The park attracts residents from all walks of life, measures 3-acres in size, and the water stays between 68-70 degrees year-round, offering the perfect reprieve from the dog days of Texas summer.
- Deep Eddy Pool
The oldest swimming pool in Texas, this historic site began as a simple swimming hole located along the Colorado River. In 1915 a developer bought the surrounding land and turned it into a concrete pool, making it the centerpiece of a resort, which featured cabins, camping, and concessions. Today, this pool is popular with adults for its lap lanes as well as families for its large wading area.
- Blue Hole at Wimberly
One of the most beloved swimming holes in Texas, Blue Hole at Wimberly is surrounded by 126 beautiful acres of lush park showcasing Texas Hill Country’s natural beauty. Located just 45 minutes southwest of Austin, Blue Hole was originally part of a family-owned piece of land and was opened to the public in the 1920s. Visitors have been enjoying it ever since.
- Hamilton Pool Preserve
Hamilton Pool Preserve in Dripping Springs is part of the Balcones Canyonlands Preserve and is a protected environment. The beautiful jade water and 50-foot waterfall have made it a popular retreat for Austinites and visitors since the 1960s.
- Krause Springs
Krause Springs is a legendary camping and swimming spot in the Texas Hill Country. Located in Spicewood Springs this 115-acre property has been privately owned for the past 50 years and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places in the U.S. Krause Springs not only boasts of 32+ natural springs, but also offers pools, a waterfall, and a butterfly house.
- Blue Hole in Georgetown
In Downtown Georgetown, along the San Gabriel River is the Blue Hole, a scenic lagoon lined by beautiful limestone bluffs. The park features picnic tables, restrooms, and a shallow wading area. Bonus: parking and entry are free!
- Twin Falls
Twin Falls is located at the south end of the Barton Creek Greenbelt. Along the entire trail, there are many spots to stop and hop in the water, and because the trail to the falls is over 3 miles, it’s easy to find your private haven along the water.
- Sculpture Falls
A couple of miles past Twin Falls along the same trail is Sculpture Falls. A larger swimming hole than Twin Falls, it is farther down the trail and a more strenuous hike to get there, but visitors will be rewarded with beautiful cliffs, a variety of wildlife, a less populated swimming hole, and even a rope swing.
Life at Lakeside at Tessera
When you live at Lakeside at Tessera you benefit from all the luxuries the Texas Hill Country offers. Contact us today to schedule your tour.