Summary
Although Texas is home to numerous water parks, both locals and tourists often seek out natural swimming holes to escape the summer heat. For those who prefer lakes, waterfalls, and hidden grottos over concrete pools and water slides, Texas offers a wealth of options, featuring everything from a three-acre spring in the heart of Austin to a scuba-diving lake situated south of Dallas.
1. Garner State Park
Located on the Frio River in Concan, approximately 100 miles west of San Antonio, Garner State Park is renowned as one of Texas’ most popular summer getaways. Enthusiasts can engage in various activities such as swimming, fishing, paddling, and tubing. Additionally, there are 11 miles of scenic hiking trails for those who prefer to warm up before plunging into the water.
2. Barton Springs
Barton Springs perfectly embodies the “Everything’s Bigger in Texas” motto. This expansive three-acre swimming hole, one of the state’s most well-known, is located in the heart of Austin’s expansive Zilker Park and remains open year-round, thanks to its consistent 70-degree water temperature. When you’re ready to dry off, a nice shady spot under an oak or pecan tree awaits you.
3. Krause Springs
Krause Springs, located just 45 minutes northwest of Austin, is an enchanting inlet off the Colorado River. It includes two expansive swimming holes adorned with scenic waterfalls and rope swings for children. Moreover, it serves as an excellent camping destination over weekends.
4. Hamilton Pool Preserve
The Hamilton Pool Preserve, situated 30 miles west of Austin, presents a stunning emerald-green grotto that resembles a tropical paradise. With a spectacular 50-foot waterfall and stalactites hanging from the cave, it is part of the expansive 32,000-acre Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge.
5. Blanco State Park
Situated in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, Blanco State Park may be among the smaller state parks, yet it compensates with its charm and family-friendly features. Nestled along one mile of the Blanco River, it boasts a wading pool with cascading weir dams and a fishing area recognized for capturing largemouth bass and rainbow trout. Conveniently, it is located just one hour north of San Antonio and one hour west of Austin.
6. Lake Whitney
Situated about 80 miles south of Dallas, Lake Whitney is a deep reservoir on the Brazos River. Within Lake Whitney State Park, visitors can indulge in a buoyed swimming area and numerous spots for snorkeling and scuba diving in the lake’s crystal-clear waters.
7. Pedernales Falls
This Central Texas destination offers a distinctive swimming experience compared to Texas’ other aquatic escapes. Featuring shallow rapids, limestone gorges, and gentle waterfalls, this section of the Pedernales River lies an hour west of Austin, where outdoor enthusiasts can also indulge in kayaking, horseback riding, and mountain biking throughout the park.
8. Mustang Island State Park
Located adjacent to Corpus Christi, Mustang Island State Park showcases five miles of pristine beachfront along the Gulf of Mexico. Visitors can partake in various outdoor activities, including fishing, camping, beach-combing, swimming, surfing, and birdwatching.
9. Guadalupe River State Park
Set in the picturesque Texas Hill Country, Guadalupe River State Park features a stunning nine-mile stretch of the Guadalupe River, providing ample opportunities for swimming, tubing, and canoeing.
10. Colorado Bend State Park
Situated on the Colorado River above Lake Buchanan, Colorado Bend State Park is a prime location for river swimming in Texas. With options for camping, fly-fishing, and kayaking, adventurers can also explore 35 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails, along with impressive ranger-led cave tours. Consequently, it’s advisable to plan a weekend visit due to its two-hour distance from Austin.
