The clouds are clearing, the flowers are blooming, and our city is getting hotter by the day! It’s nearly swimming season and we here at UNATION are ready to slap on our sunscreen and float the day away!
For those looking for something outside your closest swimming pool, we’ve got a guide for you. Prepare to splash and relax at these day trip spots where a perfect spring day is only a few hours or so away!
Grab your bag and swimsuit San Antonio! Here is UNATION’s guide to 6 natural springs & watering holes you need to visit!
?: Wimberley Parks & Recreation
The Blue Hole Swim Area is 3 acres of gorgeous scenery with crip and cool spring-fed waters. Located in Wimberley, this spot isn’t too far a drive for a great time in the outdoors. Explore the recreational amenities in the park on your swim day with hiking trails, bike paths, picnic areas, playgrounds, and more! This spot is a must-visit in the warmer months!
Want to enjoy the crystal clear water of the Blue Hole? Make sure to make your reservation for swimming in advance! Reservations for the swimming season open March 1st for Wimberley residents and April 1st for non-residents. Season passes are also available for swimming during the entirety of swim open hours. Swimming season at the Blue Hole opens on May 1st and continues through September 4th!
9 am – 1 pm & 2 pm – 6 pm
Day Passes range from $6 – $12 per person
(you must reserve both time slots if you wish to swim all day)
Season Passes range from $60 – $110 per person
?: Krause Springs
Visit this gorgeous swimming site located in the Texas Hill Country for chilly spring swimming and relaxing vibes! This Spicewood spot is located west of Austin and is a pretty quick drive for us San Antonians. There are 32 springs on the property with plenty feeding into the manmade and natural pool you can swim in! While you’re not swimming, explore the butterfly gardens or prep your camping gear!
Dreaming of swimming at Krause Springs? They’re officially open for the swim season! Get to planning because this spot is one you’re going to want to explore this Spring and Summer!
9 am – 8 pm daily
Day passes range from $6 – $10 per person
Overnight Camping ranges from $10 – $15 per person
?: Texas Parks & Wildlife
Looking for a hidden hill country gem? Check out the Devil’s Waterhole at Inks Lake State Park in Burnet! This is a perfect spot for a day trip where you can enjoy a fun and relaxing swim or an adrenaline rush while cliff jumping! Explore the park’s trails and activity spots before getting in the water.
If you’re looking to do more than swim, bring your kayaks or paddleboards or rent them at the park store! You can also scuba dive and fish if you’re up to it. This sparking spot is open year-round and definitely worth a visit!
The park often reaches capacity so we recommend reserving your spot for the day!
Day Passes are $7 for anyone 13+
?: Travis Country Parks
Wanting a trip to paradise? Hamilton Pool Preserve is a beautiful beach leading into a pool with an overhanging cliff in a spot that looks straight from a fairy tale. Although the trail under the hanging cliff is currently closed due to safety concerns, the pool is still accessible from the beach and absolutely worth it!
Visitors are currently able to reserve a spot through May of 2023 but keep in mind swimming is not guaranteed depending on the state of the pool! Keep up to date on their website. Also if you plan to swim this Winter and Spring, plan for the water temperature to possibly be under 50 degrees Fahrenheit! Talk about chilly!
Morning Reservation: 9 am – 12:30 pm
Afternoon Reservation: 2 pm – 5:30 pm
Reservation is $12 per vehicle
Entrance Fee ranges from $3 – $8 per person
?: City of New Braunfels
A quick trip to New Braunfels is all you need to do to reach a gorgeous spring-fed pool! This historic spot is one of the oldest bathing pools in Texas and stays a constant 72 degrees all year! Explore the park and enjoy swimming it after swinging in on a rope swing or riding a slide on the way in!
The aquatic complex is closed until the Summer season so keep an eye out for the opening day! This Summer is going to be a fun one and this spot is a must-visit for a good swim!
Mon – Fri daily admission ranges from $2 – $6
Sat, Sun, and holiday admission ranges from $4 – $8
Seasons passes range from $36 – $164
?: Texas Parks & Wildlife
Pebble Beach at Guadalupe River State Park is a perfect watering hole spot for swimming that is close by with beautiful scenery! This spot is popular for tubing, lounging, and having some fun in the sun! The swimming area is pretty shallow but still a great spot for a dip.
This spot is open daily but we recommend reserving a pass online since this post often reaches capacity! Also, keep in mind that holidays and weekends are often crowded on the beach so if you’re looking for a peaceful time, come on a weekday!
8 am – 10 pm
Entrance fees are $7 daily for anyone 13+
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