These natural and man-made wonders are fun to discover and perfect for the whole family to enjoy. They're the best way to escape the summer temps - just add a swimsuit and towel.
LessThis 1,000-foot-long swimming hole is found in Austin's Zilker Park. The water is spring-fed, and temperatures stay a cool 68 degrees year-round. It's very popular in the summer, and its length is perfect for swimming laps, too.
You'll find this swimming hole below a 50-foot waterfall just outside Austin in Travis County. Due to its popularity, there's a reservation system in place from March through October, as well as on Saturdays, Sundays and official Travis County holidays from November through February. You can also hike in the area, and there are guided tours offered on Saturdays.
This swimming hole and 32 natural springs are located at a campground about 30 miles outside of Austin. The swimming hole has a crashing waterfall above it, and some of the springs feed into an on-site man-made pool.
Hike the small canyon or swim at Devil's Waterhole in Inks Lake State Park. When Valley Spring Creek is running, you can explore scenic waterfalls upstream of the lake. The park is open year-round, and there are plenty of campsites and cabins for overnight stays.
The main swimming area is along a dam, which creates a wide lagoon and waterfall perfect for swimming and relaxing. Here you can float in the river or enjoy the more tame man-made pool.
This artesian spring is the entrance to an underwater cave system; however, only research professionals are allowed to cave dive here. The swimming hole itself is still a natural wonder with limestone cliffs and vegetation surrounding the spring. It's found in Wimberley and open for swimming May through September.
This section of the Frio River, located in the town of Concan about 75 miles from San Antonio, is popular for floating and relaxing in spring-fed water. You can stay overnight at a campsite or in cabins at Neal's Lodges. And don't leave without going on the massive river slide!
The shock of cold water feels best in the middle of the warm, sunny climate of Big Bend. At Balmorhea State Park, you can take a refreshing dive in the world’s largest spring-fed swimming pool or use scuba gear to explore its depths.