It took some time, but I compiled 15 of the best swimming holes in Central Texas that you must check out this summer! Have you been to any of these? Comment below and let me know!
Devil’s Waterhole
Located within Inks Lake State Park, this swimming hole is surrounded by cliffs in which you can jump from. There is no lifeguard so swimming is at your own risk.
Gus Fruh
Located within the Barton Creek Greenbelt in Austin, you will find a deep swimming hole which locals have been flocking to for years. Just be forewarned that swimming depends on rainfall. If rain has been plentiful the creeks will be flowing and the swimming hole deep. On the flip side, if rain has been scarce the swimming hole will be dried up!
Campbell’s Hole
Also located within the Barton Creek Greenbelt of Austin about a mile upstream from Gus Fruh is another swimming hole locals have known about for years. Just like Gus Fruh, water level depends on rainfall.
Hancock Springs
Hancock Springs Pool in Lampasas was built in 1911 and is unique in the fact that it is spring fed.
Pace Bend Park
With over 9 miles of coastline, this park in Spicewood offers plenty of options to cool off. There are three coves specifically designated for swimming that prohibit boats.
Hamilton Pool Preserve
Located in Travis County near Dripping Springs, this nature preserve has one of the most unique swimming holes in Central Texas. Hamilton Creek plunges over a cliff creating a 50ft waterfall that drops into the swimming area below. Reservations are required in order to visit.
Jacob’s Well
Located near Wimberley, Jacob’s Well is an artisan spring that releases thousands of gallons of water per day and is the second largest fully submerged cave in Texas.
San Marcos River
There are several swimming holes along the San Marcos river such as Spring Lake Falls and Rio Vista Park. Several hundred springs keep the water at a comfortable 72 degrees year round. Most summer days you will find it filled with swimmers and tubers.
Landa Park
Ok so this is more along the border of Central and South Texas. Located in New Braunfels, this spring-fed natural pool is the perfect place to cool off on a hot summer day! Or enjoy paddleboats or a train ride around the park!
Krause Springs
Located in Spicewood, about 34 miles west of Austin is Krause Springs. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, there are two springs that feed the 70′ by 20′ swimming pool at a rate of 70 gallons a minute at a temperature of about 70 degrees.
Wimberley Blue Hole
Located in Wimberley not far from Jacob’s Well, sits another beautiful natural swimming hole. There are 3 acres to swim in that surrounded by 126 acres of natural forest, native grass fields, and cypress trees.
Twin Falls
Located within the Barton Creek Greenbelt in Austin is another amazing swimming hole within the greenbelt.
Mckinney Falls State Park
Located in Austin, McKinney Falls State Park is just 13 miles from the capitol. The Travel Channel named it among the top 10 swimming holes in the U.S.
Barton Springs Pool
Located in Austin, this pool is 900 feet long and was formed when Barton Creek was dammed up. This natural spring-fed pool averages about 68 degrees all year.
Rio Vista Falls
Located in San Marcos this is a 13-acre oasis complete with artificial rapids, slide, and hiking trails. Whether you want to ride the rapids all day, paddleboard, sunbathe or swim in the deep watering hole you will probably find that you never want to leave.
Bonus: Adults Only
Ok, I just had to throw this in there. Sorry, no kids allowed at this adult only & clothing optional swimming hole. Yes you read that right, we have a clothing optional swimming right here in the Central Texas area right on Lake Travis and it is called Hippie Hollow. Don’t forget your sunscreen!
Oh, these all look to lovely! Refreshing and so much fun! Hamilton Pool Preserve is especially intriguing to me–how cool!
Oh man, I didn’t know about these swimming holes in Texas! I’ve been in TX for a few years now and my husband hasn’t mentioned swimming holes (he’s from here). We’ll have to check them out. Thank you!
I’m planning on travelling the US this summer and am super excited for all the cool places. This is definitely getting saved for suture reference!
These are all so awesome! I had no idea that Texas has this many!
I know and there are a ton more that I didn’t even list!
These look so fun! I had no idea these existed (having never been to Texas) but I might just have to plan a trip so I can go!