We know that Austin is no stranger to steaming hot summers, and Austinites are always looking for a relaxing escape from the heat. That's why we have compiled a list of a few of our favorite swimming holes in Austin! We're sure there is a perfect spot for you to kick back and relax in the water.
Less than 10 miles from Downtown Austin:
1. Deep Eddy Municipal Pool
Distance from downtown: 2.5 miles
Directions: 401 Deep Eddy Ave, Austin, TX 78703
Hours: Open daily, 8 AM-8 PM for lap swim and 10 AM-8 PM for recreational swim. CLOSED the first Tuesday of every month.
If you’re craving the classic public pool experience, Deep Eddy Pool is the perfect place for you! The pool has been named the oldest swimming pool in Texas and has been serving as a cool sanctuary for Austinites since 1915. The beach entry and lap lanes make this pool perfect for both relaxation and exercise. This spot is so perfect that leaving will have you singing the “Deep Eddy Blues.”
Cost & Reservations:
Residents: 1-11 and 62+ $2, 12-17 $3, 18-62 $5
Non-residents: 1-11 $4, 12-17 $5, 18-62 $9, 62+ $5;
Children under 1 and veterans can enter for free.
Deep Eddy does not require reservations, but there is a maximum capacity that fills up fast. Make sure to get there early to get a great spot!
Photo by Austingov.org
2. Barton Springs Municipal Pool
Distance from downtown: 3 miles
Directions: 2201 William Barton Dr, Austin, TX 78746
Swim at your own risk hours: Daily 5 AM-8 AM
Guarded swim: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday 8 AM-10 PM. CLOSED Thursday 9AM-7PM
Barton Springs, as one of the most popular and well-known swimming spots in Central Austin, is a staple to visitors and locals alike. Placed right inside Zilker Park, this area is perfect to take a dip in the cool water or just relax on the grassy lawns that line the springs. Famous for its year-round 68° swim, Barton Springs is known for its crisp water that is sure to keep you cool on a hot summer day. The springs are also home to the endangered Barton Springs Salamander, so after your swim make sure to pop over to the Swim! educational exhibit to learn more about the ecosystem of Barton Springs.
Cost & Reservations:
Residents: 1-11 and 62+ $2, 12-17 $3, 18-61 $5;
Non-residents: 1-11 $4, 12-17 and 62+ $5, 18-61 $9;
Children under 1 and veterans can enter for free.
Barton Springs does not require reservations
Photo by David Duyker
3. Gus Fruh at Barton Creek Greenbelt
Distance from downtown: 5 miles
Directions: 2642 Barton Hills Dr, Austin, TX 78704
Hours: Open daily 5 AM-10 PM
Gus Fruh trail, located at the Barton Creek Greenbelt, is just a ¼ mi walk to a picturesque swimming hole. There are many swimming holes along the Greenbelt, but Gus Fruh stands out because of its calm atmosphere and relaxing trees that provide just enough shade to wash your cares away. This spot is family-friendly and provides fun for children and adults alike. Additionally, if you would like to take a break from swimming, there are always quiet spots to set up your towel or hammock and soak up some sun.
Costs & Reservations:
The Greenbelt requires no reservations or entry fees, but make sure to check here before you go if the water levels at the swimming holes are safe to swim.
10-20 miles from Downtown Austin:
Photo by Michelle on TripAdvisor
4. McKinney Falls State Park
Distance from downtown: 10 miles
Directions: 5808 McKinney Falls Pkwy, Austin, TX 78744
Hours: Open daily 8 AM-10 PM
The flowing waters of Onion Creek provide beautiful limestone falls into the cool pools at McKinney State Park. You can take a dip in either the upper or lower falls, both of which provide a perfect spot to splash around or have a relaxing summer dip. The Lower Falls is a kid-friendly spot, ideal for wading and shallow swimming.
The Upper Falls has deeper waters that are the ultimate place to bring a floatie and just relax. Although slightly warmer than the constant 68° of Barton Springs, this spot is a perfect family-friendly area to lay down your chairs and your worries! There are so many things to do at this state park, and if you feel like your stay is too short, there is always an option to camp in a tent or in one of the newly remodeled cabins.
Costs & Reservations:
Day passes are required to swim and give you access to all the fishing, hiking and other adventures that the park provides. Ages 13+ $6, children under 13 enter for free
Reservations must be made to swim the Upper and Lower Falls. Make them in advance to make sure you secure your spot!
5. Bull Creek District Park
Distance from downtown: 10 miles
Directions: 6701 Lakewood Dr, Austin, TX 78731
Hours: Open daily 5 AM-10 PM
For more of a hidden gem swimming hole, visit Bull Creek. Lined with trails, Bull Creek gives way to four main swimming holes and a stream all along the trail that are ideal for dipping your toes in. The Middle Falls are easy to access because of the parking lot right on the edge of the swimming hole. The most popular swimming spot is the Upper Falls. This well-loved wading area provides the amenities of a close restroom and parking nearby.
If you are willing to hike a little bit farther it is totally worth it! The Side Falls are often less busy and lend themselves to a more peaceful and private summer swim. This area is also right across from the Bull Creek Nature Preserve! Lastly, if you want to take a quick swim before or after your hike, the Lower Bull Creek Falls sits right at the trailhead. Bull Creek can be less crowded than spots close to the city, so the short drive is very rewarding!
Cost & Reservations:
Reservations are not required and entry is free, so swim at your own risk. Bull Creek also allows dogs! Come take your pup for a fresh swim, just make sure to keep them on a leash and clean up after them!
6. St. Edward’s Park
Distance from downtown: 13 mi
Directions: 7301 Spicewood Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78759
Hours: Open daily 5 AM-10 PM
Nestled in the bends of Spicewood Springs Road is St. Edwards Park. If you are an explorer that loves to get lost in nature this spot is perfect for you! In addition to all the hiking trails, you can find swimming areas around every corner that are ready for you to dive into. St. Edwards is also dog friendly, making it a perfect place to cool off with your pup on a hot day.
Cost & Reservations:
Reservations are not required for this park and entry is free!
Remember to Leave No Trace!
Remember! Many of these natural areas deserve to be protected and should be left the way you found them. Make sure to dispose of all trash and pet waste in proper containers and respect all plants and wildlife. It's our shared responsibility to keep these spaces beautiful so they can be enjoyed by generations to come!
