There are only so many summer days you can spend swimming laps in your backyard pool. Yep, it’s officially time to check some swimming holes off of your hot weather bucket list. Here are our favorite natural spots to cool off in (in the state of Texas).
The 5 Best Swimming Holes in Texas
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Published Aug 3, 2017
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Barton Springs Pool (austin)
Pack your bags for a long weekend in Austin. After perusing UT’s campus (and working up a sweat), head to the natural pool fed by underground springs with an average temperature of 68 to 70 degrees—ahhhh. It’s so damn refreshing. And we probably don’t have to tell you, but you’ll probably run into someone you know at this hot spot. So wear your cute bathing suit.
2201 Barton Springs Rd., Austin; 512-867-3080 or austintexas.com
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Hamilton Pool Preserve (dripping Springs)
A 50-foot waterfall spills into this picturesque pool, making it one of the most Insta-famous swimming holes in Texas. It’s gorgeous, relaxing and otherworldly. What’s not to love? Well, maybe the fact that you need to make a reservation to visit. But that means you can enjoy your day without chaotic crowds.
24300 Hamilton Pool Rd., Dripping Springs; 512-264-2740 or parks.traviscountytx.gov
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Jacob’s Well (wimberley)
A quarter-mile hike through Jacob’s Well Natural Area, a hidden 81-acre oasis, will lead you to a pristine spring of 68-degree artesian water. You’ll be more than ready to jump in, so be sure to make a reservation prior to your trip—you’ll want to be able to enjoy the second-largest fully submerged cave in Texas. (Yep, it’s an underwater cave!)
1699 Mount Sharp Rd., Wimberley; 512-214-4593 or co.hays.tx.us
Garner State Park
The Frio At Garner State Park (concan)
While floating on an inner tube is what has people flocking to the Frio River, visitors are extending their stays for the camping, hiking and dancing. Yep, since the 1940s, people have been gathering at the park’s concession building on summer nights for a jukebox dance. It’s the cutest tradition in the world, so get there early—it fills up.
234 RR 1050, Concan; 830-232-6132 or tpwd.texas.gov
The Quince (camp Wood)
Nothing to see here but a 15-foot-deep hole filled with clear, cold water. Signage for the Quince is basically nonexistent, so your best bet is to head a few hundred yards down River Road (off of Texas State Highway 55) and park by the river. If you get lost, ask around for directions.Psst, locals refer to the swimming hole aptly as “the swim hole.”
751 River Rd., Camp Wood; 830-597-4239
