Best Swimming Holes in Texas :- Texas is known for spectacular natural landscapes, cowboy culture, and blazing hot summers. While the first two draw many tourists, the third can be challenging to tackle.
Thankfully, the Lone Star State is home to plenty of rivers, lakes, and spring-fed pools that can help you beat the heat through a refreshing dip in their cool waters.
From scenic water holes nestled amid beautiful natural surroundings to hidden gems in verdant forests, there is a variety of swimming holes to suit every taste.
Wondering where to begin?
Choose from our list of the 11 best swimming holes in Texas: –
Barton Springs in Austin #1
Plunge into the refreshing waters of this popular spring-fed pool that draws locals and tourists alike. Located in Zilker Park, it is spread across 3 acres with waters at a temperature of around 72 degrees.
It’s well-maintained and there are lifeguards around. You can show off your diving skills, enjoy swimming, or lay on the grassy banks to unwind, there are plenty of activities to indulge in.
Keep your eyes peeled for fish that often hide in the aquatic grasses. A fascinating fact about the pool is Robert Redford first learned to swim here. The popular pool draws hundreds of thousands of visitors every year.
What’s more?
If you visit at full moon, join the people for a collective howl as the moon becomes visible. Take note that the pool is closed from 9 AM to 7 PM on Thursdays.
Hamilton Pool Preserve #2
Looking for a cool oasis amid stunning natural surroundings?
Head to Hamilton Pool Preserve in Dripping Springs.
The pool was created due to the caving of an underground river. So, you can enjoy swimming under an overhanging cliff.
What’s more?
You’ll find a waterfall that flows over the cliff, making the scenery seem straight out of a postcard. There are limestone slabs around, perfect for sunbathing. No wonder it’s one of the most picturesque swimming holes in Texas.
You can park in the parking lot and hike for a quarter mile to the pool. There’s a small admission fee and you’ll require prior reservation.
Make sure to check on its website if swimming is allowed at the time of your visit as it will depend on bacteria levels and rainfall.
Balmorhea State Park #3
How about visiting a swimming hole in a desert area?
Head to Balmorhea State Park.
Fed by San Solomon Springs, the pool is spread across 1.3 acres and is 24 feet deep. It’s the largest spring-fed swimming pool in the world.
It was constructed in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps and features clear waters at temperatures around 72 to 76 degrees Fahrenheit.
You can enjoy swimming, unwind on its banks, or go snorkelling, there is something here for every taste. The lake is also home to two endangered species of fish, the Comanche Springs pupfish and the Pecos Gambusia.
Got some more time on your hands?
Hike to explore the park. There’s a small entry fee but it’s worth the experience.
Jacob’s Well Natural Area #4
This swimming hole in Hill Country stems from the Trinity Aquifer, an artesian spring. It offers entry into the longest underwater cave system in Texas.
The system goes down 140 feet but only research professionals are permitted to dive into its depths.
However, you can swim and enjoy the water at 68 degrees Fahrenheit, soak up the sun on its shores, or hike in the lush park, there is plenty to keep you engaged here. Keep in mind to make a reservation.
Devil’s Waterhole #5
If you’re an adventure junkie, this is a must-have swimming hole on your itinerary. Located in Inks Lake State Park, it’s an inlet on Inks Lake.
Since it’s surrounded by giant rock formations, thrill seekers love to dive from above. But before you decide to leap, keep in mind that there are no lifeguards.
Doesn’t seem too appealing?
You can enjoy swimming in the hole or sunbathing on the boulders.
According to popular belief, this fascinating swimming hole takes its name from a former landowner whose wagon got stuck while crossing and he cussed loudly. Today, it draws nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.
Blue Hole in Wimberley #6
Located in Wimberley, Blue Hole Regional Park is home to one of the best swimming holes in Texas. The clear waters of Cypress Creek surrounded by lush cypress trees make for a picturesque sight.
You can get hold of a rope swing and get into the sapphire-hued waters of the three-acre swimming hole, enjoy swimming, or unwind on the shady lawn, there are many fun recreational activities to indulge in here.
Swimming is permitted here from weekends in May and then daily from Memorial Day to Labor Day, to weekends in September.
Krause Springs #7
From swimming and birding to camping, Krause Springs offers plenty of outdoor activities for a memorable outing.
Thirty miles from Austin, this privately-owned property offers a serene escape into nature. Sprawled across 115 acres, it features 32 springs, a natural pool, and an artificial pool.
With waters at 68 degrees Fahrenheit, it’s perfect to beat the scorching summer heat. You can also explore the butterfly garden here.
Wish to spend the night?
Tent and RV camping are available. It was established in 1955 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Sites. There’s a small admission fee.
Frio River at Garner State Park #8
Flowing through the Garner State Park, Frio River draws hundreds of thousands of visitors. Frio means “cold” and the river lives up to its name with the water temperature being around 68 degrees.
The cypress trees on the banks add to its allure. The park has 2.9 miles of riverfront, perfect for enjoying plenty of recreational activities. From canoeing, and floating in an inner tube, to swimming and sunbathing, there is something here for everyone.
Love to dance?
Dance on the old stone dance floor located close to the water.
Camp Tonkawa Springs #9
Take a dip in the refreshingly cool waters of the pond at Camp Tonkawa Springs in Garrison. With waters at 68 degrees, it’s perfect to escape the summer heat.
Formerly a Boy Scout Camp, it opened in 2001 as a privately-run park and has been drawing locals and tourists alike.
You can swim, enjoy nature walks, play volleyball, or picnic, there are many fun outdoor activities to enjoy here.
The park also offers tent sites and RV camping facilities. There are tall pine trees around which make it even more scenic.
What’s more?
There’s also a slanted tree with notches, making it easy to reach an impressive rope swing.
Burger’s Lake #10
Located in Fort Worth, this spring-fed lake in a 30-acre park draws families and solo-ers alike.
You can go down the 20-foot slide, have fun on the 25-foot trapeze, and dive from any of the six diving boards, there are plenty of activities to indulge in here.
With a water purification system in place, the pool is well-maintained so you can enjoy your time without worry. After some water activity fun, head to one of the sandy beaches to soak up the sun.
You can also make use of the numerous tables and grills for a fun picnic with friends or family. There’s an admission fee here.
City Tube Shute, Comal River #11
How about floating down a river in a tube?
People throng to the City Tube Shute in New Braunfels to have this fun experience. You can hire a tube, and make your way towards the chute. It’s a slide created into the dam.
From enjoying a serene floating experience to feeling the adrenaline when you tackle the rapids, there is a variety of experiences to enjoy here.
If you’re a weak swimmer, make sure to wear your life jacket. Children are also recommended to wear it.
Since the place is so popular, it’s better to visit early morning or midweek to avoid weekend crowds.
So, start with the one that attracts you the most and get ready for an unforgettable outing in the Lone Star State.
Follow us for more such insights!
FAQs:-
Q. Is there anywhere to swim in Texas?
From swimming in the ocean, vast lakes, and meandering rivers to numerous swimming holes, Texas offers a variety of places to swim.
Q. What is the best place to swim in Texas?
Blue Hole Regional Park, Barton Springs, and Hamilton Pool Preserve are some of the best places to swim in Texas.
Q. What is the deepest swimming hole in Texas?
The deepest swimming hole in Texas is Jacob’s Well, an artesian spring in Wimberley with a cave-like system that goes down 140 feet. It has two caverns that stretch for around 5,000 feet.