Best Swimming Holes Near Dripping Springs and Austin in 2025

by Justin Cofield

Looking to cool off in the Texas Hill Country? Dripping Springs and the greater Austin area are home to some of the best swimming holes in Texas, perfect for families, adventurers, and anyone looking to embrace the natural beauty of our region.

Here’s our curated list of the top swimming holes near Dripping Springs and Austin for 2025.

1. Hamilton Pool Preserve

Location: 24300 Hamilton Pool Rd, Dripping Springs, TX (40 minutes from Austin)
Why Visit: Just a short drive from Dripping Springs, Hamilton Pool is a bucket-list destination. This natural pool, fed by a 50-foot waterfall and surrounded by limestone cliffs, is a geological wonder. It’s perfect for swimming, hiking, and soaking in the Hill Country’s beauty.
Cost: $15 per vehicle (cash only)
Hours: 9 AM–6 PM (no entry after 5:30 PM)
Tips: Reservations are required and book up fast—secure your spot at least two weeks in advance via the Travis County website. Swimming is allowed in 2025, but check for water level or bacteria updates before you go.

2. Barton Springs Pool

Location: 2201 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX (30 minutes from Dripping Springs)
Why Visit: Located in Zilker Park, Barton Springs is Austin’s iconic spring-fed pool, maintaining a refreshing 68°F year-round. With diving boards, grassy areas, and lifeguards, it’s ideal for all ages.
Cost: $2–$5 (residents), $4–$9 (non-residents), cash only
Hours: 5 AM–10 PM (limited hours on Thursdays)
Tips: No reservations needed, but arrive early to avoid crowds. Free entry from 5–8 AM during “swim at your own risk” hours.

3. Krause Springs

Location: 424 County Rd 404, Spicewood, TX (30 miles from Dripping Springs)
Why Visit: This family-owned gem features 32 springs, a man-made pool, a natural pool with a waterfall, and rope swings. Surrounded by cypress trees, it’s a serene spot for swimming and camping.
Cost: $10 (adults), $6 (kids 4–11), cash only
Hours: 9 AM–8 PM
Tips: No reservations, so arrive early on weekends to beat capacity limits. Call (830) 693-4181 for updates.

4. Blue Hole Regional Park (Wimberley)

Location: 100 Blue Hole Ln, Wimberley, TX (25 minutes from Dripping Springs)
Why Visit: This spring-fed swimming hole along Cypress Creek is shaded by cypress trees and features rope swings, shallow areas for kids, and deeper spots for adults. It’s a family-friendly favorite with picnic areas and trails.
Cost: $12 (adults), $8 (kids 4–12, seniors)
Hours: 9 AM–1 PM or 2 PM–6 PM
Tips: Book reservations in advance via the City of Wimberley’s website. No cliff jumping allowed.

5. McKinney Falls State Park

Location: 5808 McKinney Falls Pkwy, Austin, TX (30 minutes from Dripping Springs)
Why Visit: This state park offers two swimming holes at Upper and Lower Falls, fed by Onion and Williamson Creeks. Upper Falls is deeper, while Lower Falls is great for kids. Enjoy hiking, biking, and camping too.
Cost: $6 (adults), free for kids under 12
Hours: 8 AM–10 PM
Tips: Reservations recommended via the Texas Parks and Wildlife website. Check water conditions before swimming.

6. Barton Creek Greenbelt (Twin Falls and Sculpture Falls)

Location: Access at 3755 Capital of Texas Hwy or 2642 Barton Hills Dr, Austin, TX (25 minutes from Dripping Springs)
Why Visit: This 7.9-mile trail features Twin Falls (0.5-mile hike, great for wading) and Sculpture Falls (1.5-mile hike, deeper and dog-friendly). It’s a local favorite for free, natural swimming.
Cost: Free
Hours: Dawn to dusk
Tips: Water levels vary; check conditions online. No lifeguards, so swim at your own risk.

7. Emma Long Metropolitan Park

Location: 6701 Lakewood Dr, Austin, TX (35 minutes from Dripping Springs)
Why Visit: This Lake Austin spot offers a sandy, beach-entry swimming area with roped-off sections, picnic facilities, and hiking trails. It’s family-friendly and great for a full day out.
Cost: $5/vehicle (Monday–Thursday), $10/vehicle (Friday–Sunday)
Hours: 5 AM–10 PM
Tips: Reservations required for weekends and holidays via the City of Austin’s website.

8. Blue Hole Park (Georgetown)

Location: W 2nd St and Rock St, Georgetown, TX (45 minutes from Dripping Springs)
Why Visit: This free lagoon along the San Gabriel River features limestone bluffs and is perfect for wading. It’s dog-friendly with picnic areas and restrooms.
Cost: Free
Hours: 5 AM–10 PM
Tips: Arrive early for parking. No cliff jumping allowed.

9. Blanco State Park

Location: 101 Park Rd 23, Blanco, TX (40 minutes from Dripping Springs)
Why Visit: This smaller park along the Blanco River is great for swimming, paddling, or floating. Shaded by cypress trees, it’s a serene spot for families.
Cost: $6 (adults), free for kids under 12
Hours: 8 AM–10 PM
Tips: Reservations recommended via the Texas Parks and Wildlife website.

Tips for Enjoying Austin-Area Swimming Holes

Plan Ahead: Hamilton Pool and Blue Hole (Wimberley) require reservations, and Krause Springs can hit capacity. Book early!
Check Water Conditions: Natural swimming holes like Hamilton Pool and the Greenbelt may close due to low water levels or bacteria. Visit official websites or follow local updates.
Pack Smart: Bring water shoes for rocky bottoms, sunscreen, and floats. Food and drink are restricted at some spots like Barton Springs.
Note: Jacob’s Well is closed for swimming in 2025 due to low water levels but open for hiking. Check the Hays County website for updates.