Cool off in some of the most beautiful and refreshing places in Austin. From clear and inviting creeks to natural waterfalls, Austin has many swimming holes that are the perfect escape during hot days.

We’re bringing you this list of the best swimming holes around Austin so you know exactly where to go for some much-needed relaxation and cooling down time. So pack your bags, grab your friends or family, get comfortable with an inner tube or raft, and enjoy these wonderfully rejuvenating spots!

Deep Eddy Pool

Deep Eddy Pool, situated in Austin, Texas, is a popular man-made swimming pool with a rich history. It is a favorite among families with both adults and children, thanks to its two main pools: a lap swimming pool and a large wading pool. In addition to swimming, visitors can enjoy movie nights and sporting events during the summer.

The swimming hole's average temperature ranges from 66°F to 75°F, making it a refreshing retreat from the scorching Texas heat. Deep Eddy has close proximity to the neighborhoods of Tarrytown, and Clarksville. These neighborhoods are known for their unique architecture, charming homes, and scenic views.

Barton Springs

Barton Springs Municipal Pool is located within the scenic Zilker Park, one of Austin's most popular swimming destinations. The outdoor recreational swimming pool is filled with water from the Main Barton Spring, which is the fourth largest spring in Texas.

With an average temperature of 68°F to 74°F, visitors can enjoy a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters while taking in the natural beauty of the surroundings. Barton Springs is situated near the neighborhoods of Zilker and Barton Hills. The area offers a variety of outdoor activities, making it a perfect destination for families looking to spend quality time together.

Hamilton Pool

Located in the city of Dripping Springs, just a 45-minute drive from Downtown Austin, lies a breathtaking swimming hole with a stunning 50-foot waterfall from Hamilton Creek. Hamilton Pool was formed when the river's dome collapsed due to erosion many years ago. Limestone slabs surround the crystal-clear water, creating a serene and picturesque scene.

Visitors can enjoy swimming, hiking, and picnicking in the area, making it a perfect destination for a day trip or a weekend getaway. The neighborhoods of Lakeway, Bee Cave, and Driftwood, are located about 20-25 miles from the pool. Be sure to make reservations in advance and check the pool's schedule on their website before planning your visit.

Blue Hole

The Blue Hole Swimming Area in Wimberley, Texas, is a perfect spot to take a refreshing dip. The spring-fed water provides a cool oasis for visitors to enjoy while taking in the beautiful surroundings. The park also features trails, pavilions, courts, and picnic areas for visitors to explore and relax in.

While the entire park is open to visitors, swimming is only allowed in designated areas during each season. Visitors can also bring their pets to hike and explore the area. The nearby neighborhoods of Buda, Kyle, and San Marcos offer a variety of charming homes and scenic views, providing an amazing complement to your visit to the Blue Hole Swimming Area.

Lake Pflugerville

Nestled in the heart of Pflugerville, Texas, Lake Pflugerville is a stunning 180-acre reservoir that offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The area's beach is a popular spot for swimming, and visitors can also rent kayaks and enjoy the picturesque surroundings. 

The lake boasts pavilions and picnic areas, making it an ideal destination for a fun-filled day with family and friends. Round Rock, Manor, and Hutto are nearby suburbs from Lake Pflugerville offering residents living near the area convenient access to the tranquil lake.

Krause Springs

Krause Springs is a popular camping and swimming destination located in Spicewood, Texas, approximately 30 miles west of Austin. The Krause family has owned this private area for over 50 years, and it has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places. With 32 springs on the property, guests can enjoy several manmade and natural pools that flow to Lake Travis.

Visitors can stroll and relax in the pool, camping sites, RV areas, and the Butterfly Garden, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers. Some of the closest neighborhoods are Horseshoe Bay and Granite Shoals, as well as Marble Falls, which offer additional opportunities for outdoor recreation and relaxation for residents living nearby.

Campbell’s Hole

Located just a mile from Barton Springs, one of Austin's popular swimming holes is a must-visit. This family-friendly swimming spot offers a small cliff for diving and beach sandbars. While the pool is a good size when there is enough water in the creek, it may dry up during the dry months.

The area is pet-friendly and can get quite crowded on weekends, making it best to visit on weekday mornings. Since the swimming hole is located within the Greenbelt, the nearby South Austin neighborhoods are Barton Hills, Zilker, and Bouldin Creek.

Bartholomew Pool

Bartholomew Pool has recently undergone renovations and now boasts two pools for children and a four-lane, 25-yard lap pool that reaches a depth of 12 feet. Diving enthusiasts will be pleased to know that a diving board is also available. 

Austin residents can enjoy admission rates ranging from $1 to $3, depending on their age. Take note that lines can be long during the weekends. The pool is conveniently located near several central Austin neighborhoods, including Cherrywood, Mueller, Hyde Park, and North Loop.

Sculpture Falls

Explore the scenic Barton Creek Greenbelt Trail on a hike to reach the popular swimming spot known as Sculpture Falls. While hiking, take in the lush surroundings and immerse yourself in nature before cooling off with a refreshing swim.

Keep in mind that the swimming hole may dry up during the summer months, so be sure to check the City of Austin Parks & Recreation Department website or give them a call for the latest information on swimming and water safety in the area. Residents living in neighborhoods of Lost Creek, Rollingwood, and West Lake Hills have convenient access to the Austin swimming hole.

Hippie Hollow Park

Hippie Hollow Park is the only clothing-optional public park in Texas. Located in the basin area of Lake Travis, in the Hill Country of central Texas, the park is approximately a 30-minute drive from downtown Austin. The park is a popular destination for sunbathing and swimming and has access to Lake Travis through a steep, rocky shoreline

The park is situated 6-10 miles from the neighborhoods of Volente, Steiner Ranch, and Apache Shores, which offer easy access to the park's natural beauty. The park is open every day from 9 am to 7:30 pm and typically reaches capacity on holiday weekends. Please note that pets are not allowed in the park, even if they are on a leash or kept in a vehicle.

McKinney Falls State Park

Located in southeast Austin, McKinney Falls offers convenient access to the park. Within a 30-minute drive from Central Austin, visitors can explore the 641-acre park and 80 campsites, complete with beautiful swimming spots where they can plunge into the cool water. 

There are several activities for visitors to enjoy, including camping, hiking, and biking. The park is also dog-friendly, so visitors can bring their best friend Fido along for the fun. Don't forget to check out the park's 500+ year old cypress tree, a stunning natural wonder that is sure to leave visitors in awe.

Jacob’s Well

Located in Wimberley, 10 miles from the neighborhood of Driftwood, this creek is a popular swimming destination with its artesian spring and underwater caves. Pets are welcome, and visitors can enjoy a picnic on one of the many available tables. It's essential to note that the creek can be dry during the summertime.

Jacob's Well Natural Area entrance is free for visitors, but there is a $5 to $9 admission fee to swim in the natural spring well. With convenient access to the park, this swimming hole is a perfect spot for a fun day out with family and friends.

Swimming Holes in Austin, Texas

The city of Austin offers a plethora of swimming hole options that are sure to please all visitors and locals alike. Whether you're drawn to the social aspect offered by Barton Springs Pool, or want to enjoy the natural beauty found at Hamilton Pool Preserve and Krause Springs, there's something to cater to each and every summer swimmer in Austin.

What are you waiting for? Prepare your swimming or hiking gear and head on over to any or all of these amazing swimming holes around Austin!

If you're looking for homes near the stunning outdoor recreation and green spaces in Austin, why not consider the neighborhoods around these amazing swimming holes? Click here to speak to a real estate consultant to learn more!


Posted by Ryan Rodenbeck on
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