Summer may have just started, but it’s already sweltering outside across much of the Lone Star State. There’s no better way to combat the heat than finding the nearest swimming hole and jumping right in – so without further ado, here are 13 of the most refreshing natural pools to take a dip in this season.
1. Hamilton Pool (Dripping Springs)
By far our favorite swimming hole to take a dip in when summer comes around here in Texas, Hamilton Pool has a multitude of things to love. With the ancient limestone overhang, gorgeous jade green water, and the stunning waterfall pouring down onto a giant rock, this gorgeous pool just can't be beat.
2. Jacob's Well (Wimberley)
Some of the clearest water I've ever seen exists here at Jacob's Well. Even if you aren't a thrill seeker, the drive out here is still completely worth it. Chilling in the spring and staring at the 200+ foot-deep abyss in front of you is just as exciting (and much safer) as jumping into the well from the rocks above.
3. Krause Springs (Spicewood)
Krause Springs is privately owned, but guests are allowed for a small fee - and you can even camp on the grounds. The water is spring-fed, so it's especially cool and perfect for beating the Texas summer heat. And between the gorgeous waterfall and lush greenery, you'll feel like you've stepped right into a scene from Tarzan.
4. Barton Springs Pool (Austin)
This list wouldn't be complete without mentioning one of Austinites' favorite places to escape the heat in the summer. Be prepared though; the water is absolutely freezing, but you won't be complaining when it's pushing 100 degrees outside. There's even a diving board!
5. Blue Hole (Wimberley)
Cypress trees line this hidden Texas gem, and the water is nice and clear. A rope swing hangs on the side for those who love making a big splash, and there's plenty of space to lay your towels and coolers on the grass.
6. Frio River at Garner State Park (Concan)
Garner State Park is one of the most popular overnight camping spots in the state, and for good reason. Swimming, tubing, or kayaking in the river with surrounding limestone cliffs and mesas is an absolutely surreal experience.
7. Barton Creek Greenbelt (Austin)
If you hike a little ways down the trail located off the Capital of TX Highway, you'll come across Sculpture Falls, an awesome little swimming hole fed by Barton Creek. There are even mini waterfalls that pour over the rocks, and the water is usually a nice blue-green. Although the most popular, this isn't the only place to swim in the Greenbelt!
Here's a list of all the areas where you can take a dip.
8. Devil's Waterhole (Burnet)
Kids and teenagers love Devil's Waterhole because they can jump off the craggy rocks into the water below. If you aren't quite that adventurous, you can simply swim and enjoy the refreshing water. If the hole gets too overcrowded, you can also swim in Inks Lake.
9. Cypress Falls (Wimberley)
With the more popular Jacob's Well and Blue Hole in Wimberley, Cypress Falls gets overlooked - but that's a crying shame because it's absolutely gorgeous! This is a hidden gem that definitely belongs on your summer bucket list.
10. Rio Vista Park (San Marcos)
This is a widely popular place for tubing, swimming, and kayaking. Just be sure to not get stuck in the whirlpools (good luck getting out if you do!)
11. Burger's Lake (Fort Worth)
This one acre spring-fed swimming pool is a popular hangout for Fort Worth residents - probably because of the fountains, diving boards, water slides, sandy beaches, and shade. Great place to take the family for sure!
12. Lake Tejas (Colmesneil)
East Texas gets ridiculously hot and humid in the summer, which is why people have flocked to this swimming hole for decades. There's a diving board, slide, and plenty of places to cool off here! The pine trees surrounding the lake make it a peaceful, relaxing place to spend the day at.
13. Blue Hole (Georgetown)
There are quite a few Blue Holes in Texas, and this is another great spot to swim in the summer. It's lined by limestone bluffs along the San Gabriel River, and it's completely free to enter.
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