Austin, TX is home to some of the most unique and beautiful swimming holes and natural springs in the world. From Barton Springs to Hamilton Pool, there are plenty of places to cool off and explore. This guide will show you the best spots for swimming, hiking, and sightseeing in Austin, TX.
- San Marcos Springs
- Hamilton Pool Preserve
- McKinney Falls State Park
- Barton Springs Pool
- Canyon Lake
- Krause Springs
- Jacob’s Well Natural Area
- Blue Hole Regional Park
1. San Marcos Springs
San Marcos Springs is a must-visit for anyone exploring the best swimming holes and natural springs in Austin, TX. Located in San Marcos, just a short drive away from Austin, the springs are among the largest in the United States and are home to the endangered Texas blind salamander. Visitors can explore the springs and take in the natural beauty of this unique habitat.
The springs are an excellent place to cool off with a swim, as well as a great spot for hiking and sightseeing. Visitors can also check out the nearby San Marcos River, which is a popular area for both fishing and kayaking. The river runs through the Texas State University campus and is a great way to take in the beautiful scenery of the area.
San Marcos Springs is also home to a wide variety of wildlife, including turtles, fish, and a large variety of birds. Visitors can take in the unique sounds of the birds in the area, as well as the unique sights of the fish and turtles in the water. Additionally, the area is home to a wide variety of plants and trees, making it an excellent spot for nature lovers.
The San Marcos Springs are an excellent way to explore the best swimming holes and natural springs in Austin, TX. With its beautiful landscape, unique wildlife, and excellent opportunities for swimming and sightseeing, it’s the perfect spot for a day of exploration. Whether you’re looking for a place to cool off with a swim or take in the natural beauty of the area, San Marcos Springs is the perfect place to visit.
2. Hamilton Pool Preserve
Hamilton Pool Preserve is an otherworldly natural swimming hole located just outside Austin, TX in the Texas Hill Country. This magical spot is fed by a 50-foot waterfall, and is surrounded by lush vegetation and wildlife. With its crystal clear, emerald green waters, Hamilton Pool is a must-see for anyone visiting Austin.
The preserve is open to the public from 8am to 6pm daily, and visitors can explore the area and soak up the stunning views. The pool itself is perfect for swimming, and is said to be the oldest and most naturally preserved swimming hole in Texas. On the banks, visitors can expect to find a variety of wildlife, including deer, squirrels, and even the occasional bobcat.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can explore the surrounding trails and take in the breathtaking sights. The trails are easy to moderate, so they are perfect for all ages and experience levels. Along the way, you might be lucky enough to spot some of the native birds and animals that make Hamilton Pool their home.
For many, Hamilton Pool Preserve is a hidden gem, and a must-see for anyone visiting Austin. With its breathtaking waterfall, lush vegetation, and abundance of wildlife, this natural swimming hole is sure to take your breath away.
3. McKinney Falls State Park
McKinney Falls State Park offers a great outdoor experience, with two swimming holes, Onion Creek and Smith Branch Creek. With a variety of activities to choose from, this park is a great place to spend a day in the sun. The park also has a number of camping, hiking, and biking trails, making it perfect for an adventure.
For swimming, Onion Creek is the larger of the two swimming holes and offers visitors a great spot to cool off. Swimmers can enjoy a leisurely dip or take advantage of its beautiful scenery for a more adventurous swim. Smith Branch Creek is a smaller swimming hole, but it has a more serene atmosphere that’s ideal for a peaceful swim.
The park also offers plenty of hiking and biking trails. The trails are well maintained and range from easy to challenging. Whether you want to get some exercise or take in the beauty of the Texas Hill Country, McKinney Falls State Park has something for everyone.
For those looking for a bit of history, the park is home to the ruins of the McKinney Homestead, which dates back to the 19th century. Visitors can explore the old homestead and learn about the area’s past.
Overall, McKinney Falls State Park is a great place to enjoy a day outdoors. With its two swimming holes, camping, hiking, and biking trails, the park offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day of swimming or an adventure-filled day in nature, McKinney Falls State Park is the perfect spot.
4. Barton Springs Pool
- Barton Springs Pool is a natural 3-acre pool in Zilker Park. Barton Springs Pool is a 3-acre natural pool located in Zilker Park. This refreshing swimming hole is fed from an underground spring, and is a great spot to cool off and relax. The pool is surrounded by lush greenery and has a unique limestone bottom that gives it a unique appearance. Plus, it’s a great spot for wildlife-watching, since it’s home to a variety of different species of birds, fish, and other animals. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful spot to swim, a place to hike, or just want to take in some beautiful views, Barton Springs Pool is a great spot to check out while in Austin, TX.
- The pool has a unique limestone bottom and lush greenery. Barton Springs Pool is a unique natural swimming hole that stands apart from other swimming spots in Austin. It’s surrounded by lush greenery, and its limestone bottom gives it a unique appearance. This natural spring is a great spot for wildlife-watching, since it’s home to a variety of different species of birds, fish, and other animals. Plus, its 3-acre size makes it the perfect spot for swimming, hiking, and sightseeing. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful spot to relax, or just want to take in some beautiful views, Barton Springs Pool is a great spot to check out while in Austin, TX.
- It’s perfect for swimming, hiking, and wildlife-watching. Barton Springs Pool is a great spot to check out while in Austin, TX. It’s the perfect spot for swimming, hiking, and sightseeing, with its 3-acre size and unique limestone bottom. It’s also a great spot for wildlife-watching, since it’s home to a variety of different species of birds, fish, and other animals. The pool is surrounded by lush greenery and is fed from an underground spring, making it a great spot to cool off and relax. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful spot to swim, a place to hike, or just want to take in some beautiful views, Barton Springs Pool is a great spot to explore in Austin, TX.
5. Canyon Lake
Canyon Lake is a must-see for nature lovers looking to explore Austin’s finest natural springs. Located just east of Austin, the lake offers a plethora of activities for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Whether you’re a fan of swimming, fishing, boating, or just soaking up the sun, Canyon Lake has something for everyone.
The lake is also a great spot for campers and hikers, as the surrounding canyon walls offer a unique backdrop for exploration. The lake is dotted with picnic areas and is a great place to relax and take in the views. Visitors can also enjoy the nearby trails, which provide easy access to the lake, along with some of the most picturesque views in Texas.
For an unforgettable experience, consider a boat tour of the lake. You’ll get to explore the lake up close, and take in the lush natural beauty of the surrounding canyon walls. A boat tour is also a great way to spot local wildlife, such as fish, deer, and even the occasional alligator.
Canyon Lake offers something for everyone. With its stunning views, abundant wildlife, and range of activities, it’s no surprise that it’s one of the most popular swimming holes and natural springs in Austin. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day trip, or an adventure of a lifetime, Canyon Lake is the perfect spot to explore Austin’s most beautiful natural wonders.
6. Krause Springs
Krause Springs is one of Austin’s most beloved swimming holes, located just outside of the city in the Hill Country. This unique location is a natural paradise, with a large pool surrounded by beautiful waterfalls and lush vegetation. The sight of this stunning oasis is enough to take your breath away, and visitors can take a dip in the crystal clear waters of the pool or explore the many trails that wind through the area.
Krause Springs is more than just a swimming hole, however. The area also features a large camping ground, with plenty of space for tents, RVs, and campers. Visitors can also enjoy a range of activities, from fishing and kayaking to hiking and birdwatching. Visitors can even bring their own canoes, kayaks, and tubes to make the most of their time in the area.
The pristine environment of Krause Springs makes it a perfect place for a day trip or weekend getaway. It’s easy to see why this beautiful swimming hole and natural spring are so popular with locals and visitors alike. From the stunning landscape to the abundance of wildlife, Krause Springs is the perfect spot to go for a dip, explore, and relax.
7. Jacob’s Well Natural Area
Jacob’s Well Natural Area is a special spot for swimming, hiking, and sightseeing in Austin, TX. It’s home to a unique spring-fed swimming hole that offers a refreshing respite from the hot Texas sun. The area is surrounded by lush vegetation, and is the perfect place to explore and escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
The swimming hole at Jacob’s Well Natural Area is perfect for all kinds of activities. Visitors can take a dip in the cool and clear waters, or explore the area along the trails that surround the spring. The area is also a great spot for birdwatching and wildlife viewing, with many species of birds and animals living in and around the area.
Swimmers should be aware that Jacob’s Well Natural Area can be dangerous due to the depth, swift currents, and occasional submerged objects. For that reason, visitors should always use caution when swimming and follow safety guidelines. Lifeguards are not present, so swimmers should swim at their own risk and should never swim alone.
Jacob’s Well Natural Area is a great spot to explore and relax in Austin, TX. Whether you’re looking for a spot to take a dip in the cool waters, or just want to take in the natural beauty of the area, Jacob’s Well Natural Area is a must-see spot for swimming and sightseeing in Austin.
8. Blue Hole Regional Park
- A deep, spring-fed swimming hole with trails and playground Blue Hole Regional Park is a great spot for a summer getaway. Located in Wimberley, TX, the park is home to a deep, spring-fed swimming hole, surrounded by trails and a playground, making it perfect for an outdoor adventure. Visitors can spend the day swimming in the cool, crystal-clear waters, or exploring the surrounding trails and picnic areas. The park also features its own campground, making it ideal for a weekend getaway. So, if you’re looking for a unique and beautiful swimming spot in the Austin area, Blue Hole Regional Park is the perfect place to visit.
- Hiking and sightseeing in a tranquil natural setting The trails at Blue Hole Regional Park are perfect for exploring and sightseeing. The park boasts a variety of trails ranging from easy to difficult, so there’s something for everyone. The trails are surrounded by lush vegetation, so visitors can enjoy the peace and tranquility of a natural setting. Along the trails, visitors can also spot wildlife, including birds, deer, and other animals. So, if you’re looking for a peaceful and beautiful hike, Blue Hole Regional Park is the perfect spot for you.
- Experience the beauty of the park overnight If you’re looking for a unique camping experience, Blue Hole Regional Park has you covered. The park features its own campground, so visitors can stay overnight and experience the beauty of the park. The campground features a variety of amenities, including a picnic area, fire pits, and restrooms. So, if you’re looking for a beautiful, natural setting to camp in, Blue Hole Regional Park is the perfect spot for you.
- Cool off in the crystal-clear waters The highlight of Blue Hole Regional Park is its deep, spring-fed swimming hole. The waters are cool and crystal-clear, making them ideal for swimming and cooling off on hot summer days. Visitors can also enjoy the beauty of the surrounding vegetation and wildlife. So, if you’re looking for a unique and beautiful swimming spot, Blue Hole Regional Park is the perfect place to visit.
- Enjoy the beauty of the park with a picnic Blue Hole Regional Park is the perfect spot for a picnic. The park features a variety of picnic areas, so visitors can enjoy the beauty of the park while dining with friends and family. The picnic areas are surrounded by lush vegetation, so visitors can enjoy the peace and tranquility of the park. So, if you’re looking for a unique and beautiful spot for a picnic, Blue Hole Regional Park is the perfect place to visit.
