It’s hard to find a swimming hole in Texas that isn’t packed from May to September, but we may have done just that. Independence Creek Preserve is a pristine oasis hidden away in the desert town of Sheffield, and it’s often only open to the public for one weekend the entire year. The Preserve is owned by The Nature Conservancy, a nationwide nonprofit protecting cherished pieces of natural history in the United States. With freshwater water sources becoming increasingly rare, the conservancy preserves this precious landmark and uses it for educational purposes and other non-invasive practices.

See for yourself:

Hiding in the arid desert landscape of West Texas is a striking aquamarine oasis whose pristine waters can be seen from miles away in any direction. Independence Creek Preserve is located on private property; however, the owner opens it to the public on select weekends throughout the year, making it one of the most sought after spots in the state.
Google/Wendy Trotter
These weekends may be the only time the entire year that visitors will be allowed to step foot in this awe-inspiring place. Fed by the Pecos River, the preserve is entirely freshwater - a refreshing escape from the sweltering July heat. The Nature Conservancy also owns several of the water systems that supply the preserve to ensure its continued existence.
Google/Wendy Trotter
Towering canyons surrounding the creek only add to its remoteness. Rugged vegetation such as ancient oak and juniper trees further elevates that ambiance, leading swimmers to believe they're vacationing in an exotic jungle somewhere far, far away. It's a getaway without the cost of a plane ticket. But, it's harder to visit than anywhere you can take a plane due to the restricted access.
Flickr/paddymurphy

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Don't forget your snorkel gear, as Independence Creek Preserve in Tsxas harbors a vast array of rare plant life that looks like it could only thrive in an island paradise such as Hawaii. Plenty of endangered animals reside here as well, including many different fish species that love getting up-close-and-personal with visitors.
Flickr/paddymurphy
Guests are required to sign in and out upon arrival and departure. Campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, however, reservations can be made for designated areas. As you can imagine, it gets competitive on those lone weekends when the area is open to the public.
Google/Wendy Trotter
How enticing is that eye-popping teal hue? Bring the whole family and jump in for a summer adventure you'll cherish the memories of for years to come.
Google/Wendy Trotter
Address: 3784-3788 Ranch Road 1217, Sheffield, TX 79781. It will be open from 3 p.m. on Friday, July 19 to noon on Sunday, the 21st.
Google Maps

For more information, visit The Nature Conservancy’s website or Facebook page.

Have you ever been to Independence Creek Preserve? If not, are you planning on making the trip this weekend? Let us know all about your past experiences and future plans! Check out our previous article to learn about more swimming holes in Texas – they might be a bit more crowded, but still undeniably worth a trip.

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Swimming Holes in Texas

CC | August 29, 2022

Where else can you go swimming in Texas?

Luckily for those that aren’t able to get access to Independence Creek Preserve, there are lots of other swimming holes around the state.

Visit the Hamilton Pool Preserve in Travis County, Texas for an unforgettable swimming hole experience. You’ll need to make advanced reservations because this is another competitive spot, but it’s open for more than one weekend a year so you have a much better chance of getting in. The beautiful blue-green waters of this pool are tucked under a cliff overhang that gives the area the feel of a Caribbean beach. There’s a small plot of sand and then just cool, rich water to be enjoyed.

Nature lovers can hike around and even under the cliff to work up a sweat before their swim. Take a guided hike to learn more about the geological history of the region from park professionals and learn how to spot local flora and fauna in the region surrounding the pool. Other educational programs are also available and picnic tables can be found on-site for family lunches.

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Independence Creek, Texas 77833, USA