Austin is famous for its live music, incredible food, and laid-back vibe. When summer rolls around and temperatures start pushing triple digits, locals know exactly where to go: the best swimming holes near Austin. These spots aren’t just places to cool off. These escapes let you relax beneath cypress trees, drift through spring-fed pools, and enjoy some of Texas’s most stunning landscapes.
Whether you’re looking for hidden gems, family-friendly places, or iconic natural springs in Austin Texas, this guide highlights the best swimming holes in and near Austin Texas that deserve a spot on your summer adventure list. Each one offers something different: waterfalls, cliffs, limestone grottos, rope swings, and some of the clearest water you’ll ever see in the Hill Country.
Let’s dive in literally.
Quick Picks: Best Swimming Holes Near Austin
- Barton Springs Pool (Classic Austin Icon): Famous spring-fed pool in Zilker Park, perfect for cooling off and people-watching all year.
- Deep Eddy Pool (Family-Friendly Escape): Historic spring-fed pool with calm swimming lanes and shallow areas for kids.
- Hamilton Pool Preserve (Scenic Grotto): Stunning limestone grotto with emerald waters and a waterfall—check reservations before visiting.
- Krause Springs (Nature’s Hidden Retreat): A serene spot with dozens of natural springs, a gentle waterfall, and fun rope swings for a refreshing day in the Hill Country.
- Pedernales Falls State Park (Tranquil River Pools): Relax in shallow, safe river pockets below the falls while exploring scenic trails and enjoying a riverside picnic.
- McKinney Falls State Park (Quick Downtown Escape): Just minutes from Austin with scenic waterfalls and natural swimming areas.
- San Marcos River (Float & Swim Adventure): Crystal-clear, spring-fed river perfect for tubing, kayaking, or a refreshing swim.
1. Barton Springs Pool Austin’s Most Beloved Spring-Fed Icon
If you ask locals about the best swimming holes near Austin Texas, Barton Springs Pool will almost always be the first answer. Located inside Zilker Park, this spring-fed gem stays between 68–70°F all year long. On days when the Austin heat feels unbearable, Barton Springs is the quickest relief you’ll find.
The water is glassy, refreshing, and surrounded by grassy hills perfect for sunbathing. It’s equal parts gathering spot, fitness destination, and natural wonder. Whether you’re doing laps or simply floating on your back under the sun, Barton Springs somehow makes every day feel like a summer holiday.
What makes it special:
- Naturally cool spring water
- Huge swimming area
- Close to downtown
- Great people-watching and relaxing atmosphere
2. Deep Eddy Pool — Austin’s Iconic Spring-Fed Swimming Spot
Another favorite for those searching for swimming holes near Austin TX is Deep Eddy Pool. Though it’s structured like a traditional pool, the water is straight from natural springs, giving it that crisp, refreshing feel swimmers love.
Deep Eddy has been around for more than a century, making it the oldest swimming pool in Texas. Families love the shallow end, while lap swimmers appreciate the calm lanes. It’s simple, peaceful, and perfect when you want spring water without the crowds.
Why it’s a must-visit:
- Spring-fed and sparkling clean
- Family-friendly
- Less chaotic than other popular swim holes
3. Hamilton Pool Preserve — One of Texas’ Most Photographed Wonders
If there’s one place that earns a spot on every list of the best swim holes near Austin, it’s Hamilton Pool. Formed by the collapse of an ancient limestone dome, this stunning grotto features emerald water, dramatic rock formations, and a 50-foot waterfall that flows when rain is plentiful.
It feels wild, secluded, and unbelievably scenic. Swimming availability depends on water quality, so always check the status before visiting—but even when you can’t swim, the views alone make the trip worthwhile.
What you’ll love:
- A breathtaking grotto unlike anything else in Texas
- Short, scenic hike to the pool
- Crystal-clear water
Note: Reservations are mandatory.
4. Krause Springs — A Magical Hill Country Escape with 32 Springs
Krause Springs in Spicewood is one of the most enchanting swimming experiences you’ll find anywhere near Austin. With over 30 natural springs, a waterfall, a fern-covered grotto, and a breezy rope swing, it feels like nature built a private water park.
There’s also a large man-made pool fed by the springs, giving you two completely different swimming experiences in one spot. Many visitors consider it one of the best swimming holes near Austin Texas for weekend getaways.
Reasons to go:
- Rope swing fun
- Multiple swimming areas
- On-site camping options
- Clean, consistently cool water
5. Pedernales Falls State Park — Iconic Rock Formations and Serene Water Spots
Pedernales Falls State Park isn’t just famous for its sweeping limestone formations it’s also home to excellent swimming areas downstream from the falls. While swimming near the main falls is prohibited for safety, the lower river offers shallow, gentle pools perfect for wading and relaxing.
It’s a dream spot if you like combining hiking with a refreshing dip.
Best features:
- Beautiful riverside scenery
- Safe, calm swimming pockets
- Great for exploring and picnicking
6. McKinney Falls State Park — Wild Swimming Just Minutes from Downtown
If you want something close to the city without sacrificing the beauty of a true natural swimming hole, McKinney Falls is your answer. With two swimming areas—Upper Falls and Lower Falls—you’ll find smooth limestone, flowing water, and wide-open spaces to spread out.
This is easily one of the most convenient and enjoyable swimming holes near Austin TX, especially if you’re short on time.
Why people love it:
- Just a short drive from downtown
- Large, scenic falls
- Great mix of hiking, swimming, and relaxing
7. San Marcos River — Crystal-Clear Water Just South of Austin
If you’re in the mood for a float trip followed by a refreshing swim, the San Marcos River delivers. This spring-fed river stays cool year-round and features clean, gentle flow—great for tubing, swimming, or kayaking.
Well-known entry spots such as Rio Vista Park provide ample space for families to relax and for solo swimmers to enjoy the water comfortably.
Tips for Planning Your Swimming Hole Adventure
- Reservations: Some of the most popular swimming holes (Hamilton Pool, Jacob’s Well, Blue Hole) require booking ahead of time.
- Check conditions: Rain can affect water clarity or cause temporary closures.
- Arrive early: Popular spots fill up quickly, especially on weekends.
- Bring essentials: Water shoes, sunscreen, towels, and plenty of drinking water.
- Respect nature: These places stay beautiful because people take care of them.
Final Thoughts
From iconic spring pools to hidden Hill Country gems, Austin offers some of the most unforgettable natural swimming experiences in Texas. From tree-lined rivers and striking grottos to expansive spring-fed pools, the top swimming holes near Austin offer a refreshing escape from the heat and an ideal reason to explore more of Central Texas.
Pack your sunscreen, grab your friends, and dive into the cool, refreshing beauty that makes these swimming holes so legendary.
FAQs
Austin and the surrounding Hill Country offer amazing spots like Barton Springs, Deep Eddy Pool, Hamilton Pool, Krause Springs, McKinney Falls, and the San Marcos River for a refreshing swim.
Many springs, like Barton Springs and the San Marcos River, stay cool year-round, but some locations may close temporarily due to weather or water safety checks.
Yes, popular locations such as Hamilton Pool and Krause Springs often require prior reservations, particularly on busy weekends or during summer months.
Family-friendly options include Deep Eddy Pool, Barton Springs Pool, Pedernales Falls downstream areas, and Rio Vista Park, all offering safe and enjoyable swimming conditions.
It’s best to bring water shoes, sunscreen, towels, snacks, plenty of drinking water, and a change of clothes. Beat the rush by coming early to enjoy the best areas.
