Cool off this summer with a dip in one of these beautiful Central Texas watering holes. From the chilly waters of Barton Springs Pool to the reservation-only destination of Hamilton Pool Preserve, there are plenty of Austin watering holes to explore to beat the heat.
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Barton Springs - 2201 Barton Springs Rd | Daily 5a-10p | Website
Located in the heart of Austin, Barton Springs is the city’s most renowned natural springs. Pay to enter the pool area (note: no food allowed), or head north just past the pool for access to the free area of the springs.
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Hamilton Pool Preserve - 24300 Hamilton Pool Rd | Daily 9a-6p, Reservation required | Website
Enjoy the peace of this lagoon, fed by a small waterfall. Come early, as a limited number of people will be let into the preserve daily.
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Jacob’s Well - 1699 Mt. Sharp Rd | Daily 8a-6p | Website
One of Austin’s most picture-perfect natural watering holes! Plan ahead if visiting Jacob’s Well – You must reserve a two hour swimming slot via the Hays County Website. Visitors are limited to 300/day.
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The Greenbelt - 3755 Capital of Texas Hwy | Daily 5a-10p | Website
Hike, bike, and swim from dawn to dusk at the Greenbelt. With two small waterfalls on the west side of this lush trail as well as shallow spaces for kids to splash and play, The Greenbelt offers something for everyone.
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Deep Eddy Pool - 401 Deep Eddy | Daily 10a-8p, Closed Tuesdays | Website
In close proximity to Zilker, Deep Eddy is a family favorite and offers space on a hill for picnic lunch and play time (note: no food allowed in pool area).
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Georgetown’s Blue Hole - 100 Blue Hole Park - Georgetown | Daily 5a-10p | Website
A bend in the San Gabriel River gives way to this watering hole with a steep cliff overlooking the water and long, rocky banks.
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Krause Springs - 404 Krause Spring Rd | Daily 9a-9p | Website
This Hill Country wonderland offers 32 springs and two pools as well as a butterfly garden for visitors to enjoy.
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McKinney Falls State Park - 5808 McKinney Falls Pkwy | Daily 8a-10p | Website
Spend the day at McKinney Falls hiking and swimming or stay overnight for some Texas tent camping. Multiple watering holes offer plenty of space to explore.
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Pace Bend Park - 2201 N Pace Bend Rd | Daily Dawn-Dusk | Website
Boating is popular in Pace Bend Park, but the East side of the park as well as Mudd Cover and Gracy Cove are swimming-only areas.
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Secret Beach - 400 Grove Blvd | Daily 5a-10p | Website
A small stretch of soft sand along the Colorado River can be found in recently-renovated Roy G. Guerrero Park. Shallow, clear water makes this a great place to take kids!
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Wimberley’s Blue Hole - 100 Blue Hole Ln - Wimberley | Daily 10a-6p
A shady oasis with deep water is great for swimming or jumping from rope swings. A large lawn is great for kids to play!
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Rio Vista Park - 555 Cheatham St - San Marcos | Daily 6a-11p | Website
14-acre park with a hiking/biking trail, picnic area, and deep water hole. Bring your own tube or rent one from Lions Club to experience the rapids of the San Marcos River.
