Best Swimming Holes in Texas

As the fourth hottest state in the US, Texas can boast sweltering temperatures throughout a decent portion of the year. Find reprieve from the heat at these 5 best places to swim in Texas.

As one of the quintessential swimming holes in Texas, Barton Springs Pool in Austin maintains year-round 68-degree temperatures and crystal clear waters. This family-friendly pool has both a deep diving area and a shallow end perfect for young children. Pack a picnic to enjoy on the pool’s grassy banks and make sure to arrive early in the day if you want to get a good parking spot.   

Located in Balmorhea State Park in far West Texas, the San Solomon spring features vibrantly clear waters that draw scuba-fanatics from across the country. A built-in 1.75-acre swimming hole is fed by the spring’s 15-million-gallons of water a day and maintains temperatures of 72 to 76-degrees year-round. Ideal for deep-water divers and beginner swimmers alike, San Solomon is a must if you’re in the West Texas area.

Just 60 miles west of Fort Stockton lies the favored Balmorhea State Park which showcases the world’s largest spring-fed pool. This massive pool in the middle of the desert offers 72-degree water that swimmers share with fish, turtle, and various other aqua creatures. Consider spending a night or two at the nearby motor-court style cabins for a few extra days of heat escape.

This refreshing 68-degree pool flows continuously from its source, no matter how dry or hot the Texas heat may be. The private park lies just 40-minutes outside of Spicewood, making it significantly less crowded than some of the other popular swimming holes. Along with some spectacular swimming, this natural oasis also features overnight camping, boating, and other fun activities perfect for getting your mind off of the sweltering heat.

As one of the most popular natural swimming holes in Texas, this nine-acre swimming hole is located deep within the Angelina National Forest and was created by Sterling Boykin in the 1800’s after he dammed the nearby creek. With the Boykin Lake spillway making the perfect splashing pool for children, the recreation area also features a two-and-a-half-mile trail that winds around the creek to an old sawmill as well as a campground at the Boykin homestead. This favorite, local secret is found just 20 miles west of Jasper.

As one of Austin’s most sought-after places for Texas tubing, the Comal River is a must for a reprieve from the hot summer temps. Whether you rent tubes or bring your own, there are several shuttle options so you can start tubing on one end of the river and get picked up on the other end. If you’re tubing with small children, consider getting started earlier in the day to avoid swarms of rowdy college kids. If you’re not scared off the by the idea of cooling off in the known party-place, note that recent rule changes request that you avoid bringing along glass bottles.

Before you set out on adventures to Texas’ top swimming holes, make sure you, your family members, and friends have the proper swimming skills needed to stay safe. Sign up for swimming lessons in Texas at Swim Jim today and prepare yourself for a summer of fun in the hot Texas sun.

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