Your Hill Country Cool-Down Guide
When the Texas heat kicks in, there's nothing like cooling off in a natural swimming hole surrounded by the beauty of Hill Country. Whether you're planning a day trip or a full weekend getaway, these top 10 swimming holes near Austin offer the perfect combination of relaxation, adventure, and unforgettable scenery.
Barton Springs Pool Bliss
1. Barton Springs Pool
📍 2201 William Barton Dr, Austin, TX 78746
Nestled in the heart of Zilker Park, Barton Springs is an Austin icon. Stretching over 1,000 feet long with consistently cool 68°F water, it’s ideal for lap swimmers and lazy floaters alike. This spring-fed pool is open year-round and buzzing with summer vibes.
Tranquility at Hamilton Pool Preserve
2. Hamilton Pool Preserve
📍 24300 Hamilton Pool Road, Dripping Springs, TX 78620
A 50-foot waterfall cascading into a turquoise pool surrounded by a collapsed grotto? Yes, please! Hamilton Pool is so popular, you’ll need a reservation to access it from March to October (and on weekends). Don’t miss the hiking trails and guided tours.
Blanco State Park views
3. Blanco State Park
📍 101 Park Road 23, Blanco, TX 78606
A family-friendly spot that blends natural beauty with park amenities. Float the gentle Blanco River, swim beneath the dam-created waterfall, or relax in the shallow man-made pool.
Crystal clear at Jacob’s Well
4. Jacob’s Well
📍 1699 Mt. Sharp Road, Wimberley, TX 78676
This awe-inspiring artesian spring is the mouth of a vast underwater cave system. While cave diving is limited to researchers, swimming is open to the public from May through September. Limestone cliffs and native plants make it a true Texas treasure.
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Classic Austin at Deep Eddy Pool
5. Deep Eddy Swimming Pool
📍 401 Deep Eddy Avenue, Austin, TX 78703
As Texas’ oldest man-made swimming pool, Deep Eddy is a true Austin classic. Fed by cool natural spring water, it offers a relaxing, lap-friendly spot with a retro vibe. The shallow end is great for families, and the historic bathhouse adds a charming touch. Bonus: it's right next to hike-and-bike trails for a full day outdoors.
Blue Hole magic in the shade
6. Blue Hole
📍 333 Blue Hole Lane, Wimberley, TX 78676
A shaded, serene escape right off Wimberley's town square. Blue Hole is fed by natural springs and surrounded by cypress trees. It's a must-do during summer—but reservations are required!
Riverside relaxation at 7A Ranch
7. 7A Ranch & Resort – Blanco River Access
📍 333 Wayside Drive, Wimberley, TX 78676
This low-key gem offers river swimming with a cultural twist. Wade across the Blanco River or cool off in deeper pockets. Pair your day pass with a stay in their rustic cabins and explore their quirky Pioneer Town!
Cliffside views at Pace Bend Park
8. Pace Bend Park
📍 2805 Pace Bend Road N, Spicewood, TX 78669
Over 1,300 acres of adventure await on Lake Travis. Swim, boat, cliff-camp, or hike miles of scenic trails. Perfect for weekend warriors looking for both water and wilderness.
Nature’s oasis at Krause Springs
9. Krause Springs
📍 424 County Road 404, Spicewood, TX 78669
A lush, fairytale-like setting with 32 natural springs, a dreamy swimming hole, and a flowing waterfall. Some springs feed into a man-made pool. Campers welcome!
Thrills and chills at Devil’s Waterhole
10. Devil’s Waterhole at Inks Lake State Park
📍 3630 Park Road 4 W, Burnet, TX 78611
This rocky oasis is perfect for cliff jumping and exploring the surrounding canyon. When Valley Spring Creek is flowing, the upstream waterfalls are breathtaking. Camping and cabins available.
Final Splash
Texas summers are made for cold water, shady banks, and skipping rocks. These swimming holes near Austin are just a short drive away from your next refreshing escape—whether you're craving a solo dip or planning a family outing.
📌 Pack your sunscreen, make those reservations, and let the hill country cool you off the Texas way.