Best Swimming Holes Near Austin
From spring-fed pools to hidden Hill Country swimming holes, Austin has some of the best natural water in Texas. Here's every spot you need to know — with hours, fees, and the local tips that make the difference.
Barton Springs Pool
In Austin (Zilker Park) 68–70°F year-round $5 adults / $3 juniors / Free early morning No reservation needed
- Iconic 3-acre, spring-fed pool in the heart of Zilker Park
- Crystal-clear water maintains 68°F year-round — even in summer
- Historic bathhouse with lounging areas and diving board
- The unofficial soul of Austin — locals have been swimming here since the 1800s
Insider tip: Go before 8am for free entry and the pool almost to yourself. South bank (the grassy side) is the locals' spot. The cold plunge effect is addictive — you'll be back.
Hamilton Pool Preserve
45 min west of Austin 50–75°F (seasonal) $15/vehicle + reservation required Mandatory — book 30 days ahead on Travis County Parks website
- Dramatic collapsed grotto with 50-foot waterfall cascading into a jade pool
- One of the most photographed natural sites in Texas
- Short 0.25-mile trail descends into the canyon
- Swimming availability depends on bacteria testing — check before going
Insider tip: Set a calendar reminder for exactly 30 days before your visit — reservations sell out in minutes. Morning slots get the best light for photos. Bring water shoes for the rocky bottom.
Jacob's Well
50 min southwest (Wimberley) 68°F year-round $9/person + reservation required Mandatory — book online through Hays County
- Crystal-clear artesian spring emerging from a 140-foot vertical cave
- Second longest underwater cave in Texas — 4,500+ feet mapped
- The water is so clear you can see 30+ feet down into the cave opening
- Surrounded by lush cypress trees in the Texas Hill Country
Insider tip: The water is COLD — 68°F hits different when you're swimming over a 140-foot abyss. There's a 30-minute session limit per group. Weekday mornings have the fewest people. Do NOT attempt to dive into the cave — multiple deaths on record.
Krause Springs
45 min west (Spicewood) 68°F year-round $9/person (cash only) No reservation — first come, first served
- Private spring-fed natural pool with rope swings and waterfalls
- Multiple pools at different levels surrounded by ancient cypress trees
- Camping available overnight with shaded tent sites
- One of the few remaining old-school swimming holes — no reservations needed
Insider tip: Cash only — there's no ATM. Arrive by 10am on summer weekends or you'll wait. The lower pool is more scenic; the upper pool is warmer. Bring your own food — there are no concessions.
Blue Hole (Wimberley)
50 min southwest (Wimberley) 72°F (summer) $9/person + reservation required Mandatory — book via City of Wimberley
- Spring-fed section of Cypress Creek with ancient cypress trees
- Wide, calm swimming area with grassy banks and picnic areas
- Small-town charm in the heart of Wimberley
- One of the most beautiful natural swimming spots in the Hill Country
Insider tip: The rope swing is an Austin-area rite of passage. Go on a weekday to avoid the crowd. The creek flows best in spring — by late summer it can be low.
Sculpture Falls (Barton Creek Greenbelt)
In Austin (Greenbelt) 65–80°F (seasonal) Free No reservation needed
- Natural limestone waterfall and swimming hole on Barton Creek
- Wide, flat rock formations perfect for lounging
- Reached via a 1.5-mile hike from the Gus Fruh trailhead
- Austin's best free swimming hole — the Greenbelt's crown jewel
Insider tip: Check flow levels before going — if Barton Creek is below 30 CFS at Lost Creek gauge, the falls won't be flowing. After heavy rain, the water is muddy but the flow is spectacular. Don't bring glass containers.
Deep Eddy Pool
In Austin (West Austin) 68–70°F year-round $4 adults / $2 juniors No reservation needed
- Oldest swimming pool in Texas — operating since 1915
- Fed by an artesian well with consistent 68°F water
- Large main pool + separate wading pool for kids
- Lap swimming, lounging, and a beloved local tradition
Insider tip: Deep Eddy is less crowded than Barton Springs and has better shade. Free splash movie nights on summer Thursdays. The pool closes for cleaning on specific days — check the schedule before going.
Swimming Safety
Check water levels first
Austin swimming holes are fed by creeks and springs. After drought, many can be stagnant or dry. Use LCRA flow data.
Never swim after heavy rain
Flash floods happen fast in Central Texas. High water = high bacteria counts. Wait 48 hours after major rain.
Know the depth before diving
Submerged rocks and shifting creek beds cause serious injuries every year. Never dive headfirst into an unknown area.
Sunscreen + hydration are essential
You'll burn faster near water from reflection. Bring SPF 50+ and more water than you think you'll need.