Texas is a lot of things, but it’s definitely HOT!
Luckily the state offers plenty of good swimming holes to cool you off on those hot summer days.
In this guide, we’ll show you the 15 best swimming holes in Texas that offer an escape from the heat and plenty of fun to be had.
And most of them don’t just offer a great place to take a dip, but also some of the best scenery you’ll ever see at a swimming hole.
Chalk Bluff Park
Nestled along Uvalde County’s picturesque stretch of the Nueces River, Chalk Bluff Park offers a serene escape with its striking limestone cliffs and verdant landscape.
The clear, cool waters here are perfect for a refreshing swim on a hot Texas day, with the added allure of scenic hiking trails meandering through the area.
And the towering rock walls behind the main swimming hole area take swimming with a view to a whole new level.
Many times you’ll find folks setting up tents and beach chairs right in the shallows of the swimming hole.
Chalk Bluff Park attracts families and nature lovers, also offering opportunities to kayak, bird watch or have a picnic by the river side.
Krause Springs
Krause Springs, located in Spicewood, is a hidden gem boasting 32 natural springs amidst a backdrop of lush Hill Country foliage.
This privately-owned oasis is renowned for its beautifully maintained gardens and a butterfly habitat, enhancing the serene swimming experience.
Visitors can plunge into the cool, spring-fed pools or unwind in the soothing man-made pool.
RV camping and picnic areas make it a perfect weekend getaway destination.
Blue Hole at Riding River Ranch
Tucked away in the serene landscape of the Texas Hill Country, Blue Hole at Riding River Ranch is a secluded paradise for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty.
This hidden gem offers crystal-clear, spring-fed waters that are ideal for swimming and cooling off under the Texas sun.
Surrounded by rugged hills and lush vegetation, visitors can also enjoy hiking, wildlife watching, and the simple pleasure of disconnecting from the hustle and bustle.
Devil’s Waterhole
Within Inks Lake State Park, Devil’s Waterhole is a small extension of Inks Lake, famed for its rocky outcrops and adventurous cliff-jumping opportunities.
The surrounding park offers extensive recreational activities, including camping, kayaking, and fishing.
The waterhole’s unique geological features make it a fascinating spot for swimming and exploring, with the added thrill of diving into its refreshing waters from the surrounding cliffs.
Garner State Park
Garner State Park, set along the Frio River in the Texas Hill Country, is a beloved summer retreat.
Its crystal-clear river is perfect for floating, swimming, and canoeing, backed by stunning scenery and miles of hiking trails.
At night, the park comes alive with its traditional jukebox dances, creating a festive atmosphere.
The combination of natural beauty and family-friendly activities makes it an iconic Texas destination.
Santa Elena Canyon
In the remote reaches of Big Bend National Park, Santa Elena Canyon stands as a majestic natural landmark, with the Rio Grande flowing through it.
The river’s currents can be a little tough sometimes, but on calmer days this area makes for an excellent swimming hole.
There are also various other good swimming spots in the Rio Grande right near here, and the breathtaking views of the towering canyon walls are unmatched.
Kayaking and canoeing offer unique perspectives of this geological marvel.
Barton Creek Greenbelt
Barton Creek Greenbelt in Austin is a local favorite for its accessible swimming spots and natural beauty.
Stretching through the city, the creek offers numerous areas for cooling off, surrounded by green belts that are perfect for hiking, biking, and outdoor adventures.
Its clear waters attract swimmers, kayakers, and paddle boarders alike, offering a refreshing break from the urban environment while preserving a sense of wilderness within the city.
Barton Springs Pool
An iconic Austin landmark, Barton Springs Pool is a three-acre spring-fed pool with an average temperature of 68-70 degrees year-round.
Located within Zilker Park, this popular swimming spot is beloved by locals and visitors for its inviting waters and vibrant social scene.
The pool’s grassy slopes are ideal for sunbathing and people-watching, making it a bustling hub of activity in the heart of the city.
Jacob’s Well
In the heart of Wimberley lies Jacob’s Well, an artesian spring known for its stunning clarity and depth, leading to an extensive underwater cave system.
Adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts flock here to witness the mesmerizing play of light in the crystal-clear waters.
Swimming is a popular activity, especially during the hot summer months, but reservations are recommended to preserve its natural beauty and ensure a serene experience for all visitors.
Hamilton Pool Preserve
Just a short drive from Austin, Hamilton Pool Preserve is a breathtaking natural wonder formed thousands of years ago by the collapse of an underground river dome.
With its jade-green waters, cascading waterfall, and dramatic rock formations, it’s a photographer’s dream.
Swimming in the pool is a refreshing experience, though subject to weather conditions.
Hiking trails offer glimpses of local wildlife and the preserve’s diverse ecosystem.
Tonkawa Falls
In the small town of Crawford, Tonkawa Falls presents a picturesque limestone cascade flowing into a serene pool, making it an great spot for swimming and picnicking.
The falls and surrounding park are popular among locals for a quick escape into nature.
Tonkawa’s clear, cool waters and shaded areas provide a peaceful retreat during the hot summer months, with the added charm of a small-town atmosphere.
Balmorhea State Park
Balmorhea State Park in West Texas is home to one of the world’s largest spring-fed swimming pools, offering crystal-clear waters teeming with aquatic life.
The pool, spanning over an acre, invites snorkelers and swimmers to explore its depths and observe native fish species.
The park’s desert setting contrasts beautifully with the oasis-like pool, making it a unique spot for swimming and wildlife watching in the vast Texas landscape.
Blue Hole Regional Park
Nestled in the heart of Wimberley, Blue Hole Regional Park boasts a stunning natural swimming hole, ringed by majestic cypress trees that provide a canopy of shade.
Beyond swimming, the park offers miles of hiking trails, picnic areas, and a community pavilion, making it a versatile destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Its clear, spring-fed waters are a refreshing haven for swimmers, offering a serene and picturesque spot to cool off.
Guadalupe River State Park
Flowing through the Texas Hill Country, the Guadalupe River is renowned for its scenic beauty and recreational offerings, including tubing, kayaking, and fishing.
Its clear, cool waters make it a favorite for swimming and floating, with numerous access points and parks along its banks.
The river’s gentle currents and shaded routes offer a leisurely way to experience Texas’ natural landscapes, making it a popular choice for family outings and summer adventures.
Rio Vista Springs
Rio Vista Springs in San Marcos is celebrated for its vibrant outdoor atmosphere and the Rio Vista Falls, a series of three small dams on the San Marcos River.
The park’s clear, spring-fed waters are perfect for swimming, tubing, and kayaking, attracting both students and families.
With picnic areas, playgrounds, and ample green space, it’s a lively spot for social gatherings and water activities, embodying the spirit of Texas outdoor fun.