There’s nothing more refreshing than dipping your toes in crystal clear waters while you admire 100-foot trees above you. Living in Texas’s most populated cities comes with many perks; there are countless options for restaurants, entertainment, fitness, and more. However, you might not know how much your body and mind need an outdoor getaway until you find yourself in nature.
We’re sure you’ve heard of some of the gems Texas Hill Country holds, but did you know it has a large selection of natural swimming holes for you to explore? While an afternoon in your pool is a wonderful way to wind down, nothing can compare to a dip in the natural swimming holes of Hill Country. If you have never been to Hill Country or want to find a new swimming hole in the area, we’ve compiled a list of our favorite options.
These natural wonders all provide a unique swimming experience with gorgeous scenery and unique features. Still, no matter which location you choose for your next adventure, you are guaranteed a cool refuge from the Texas sun in clear, refreshing water.
Krause Springs sits on a 115-acre property that has been kept within the same family for over 50 years. Even though this is a popular spot for swimming, you won’t have trouble finding your own corner to enjoy. There are 32 springs on the grounds, some of which feed into the man-made swimming pool and the natural swimming hole area.
Be sure to sit under the waterfall that flows from the man-made, naturally-fed pool. The waterfall falls through many feet of lush greenery, making it a picturesque spot to capture special moments.
Lastly, the swimming hole is surrounded by granite rock, which is perfect for sunbathing or jumping into the water for a taste of adventure. For a picturesque end to the afternoon, enjoy launching from one of their rope swings into the refreshing Texas waters.
Named after a German immigrant who settled on the Guadalupe River in 1880, Schumacher Crossing was formed by the many dams that work together to slow or reroute the flow of the river at various points.
Because of the natural setup of the swimming hole, you will be able to enjoy the sights of many small waterfalls and feel the flow of the water while swimming. The swimming hole is surrounded by grand cypress trees that are deeply green on warmer days and shine with oranges, reds, and yellows in the late fall, perfect for a waterside picnic with your loved ones.
Like Schumacher Crossing, the Blanco State Park swimming hole is another refreshing body of water that was created by a river dam. Upon entering Blanco State Park and walking to the river shore, you will notice a larger swimming area being fed by the water flowing out of the dam.
This beloved local spot is populated by swimmers frolicking in the water or laying back in tubes. You can expect water temperatures close to 75 degrees, meaning there won’t be any chills as you take a relaxing dip.
Near the Comal River, you’ll find Landa Park, boasting some of the most popular swimming holes in the state. There are three naturally-fed pools to choose from in the park, and they all stay around 70 degrees year-round.
One of the pools features a two-story slide named “Wet Willie,” with a smaller slide nearby for younger children. Wade in the zero-depth pool to refresh your feet after a hike or boost your endorphins as you enjoy laps in the Olympic pool.
You also can rent a paddleboat to take out on the water to view the scenery from a new perspective and rediscover the nooks and crannies of this expansive natural wonder.
Colorado Bend State Park is home to a large collection of activities to explore, but none as refreshing as its swimming holes. There is no shortage of waterfront space in this park, as you have access to six miles of Colorado River frontage to enjoy fishing, swimming, or kayaking.
However, the highlight of this state park’s water-based offerings is Spicewood Springs. After hiking across a short, flat trail, you will see multiple spring-fed swimming holes. These swimming holes have a little bit of everything; crystal-clear water, waterfalls, and a scenic overlook of Hill Country.
Devil’s Waterhole is located within Inks Lake State Park, which stretches over 1200 acres. Although there is so much to explore, you can spend an entire day swimming and relaxing at Devil’s Waterhole, which is located on the east end of the park. From the parking lot to the water, you’ll walk just half a mile at most before discovering a refreshing swimming hole where you can take a refreshing break.
Devil’s Waterhole is 4.2 miles long and 3,000 feet wide, so it’s one of the more expansive options on this list. If you are looking for a little adventure, you will love the craggy rocks surrounding the swimming hole. Take a deep breath and summon the courage to jump upwards of 15 feet into the cool water below.
If your priorities in a swimming hole are the beauty of the backdrop and the clarity of the water, Garner State Park will provide an opportunity to immerse yourself in the serenity of nature. Sitting on the Frio River, the water is known for being perfectly blue, and the surrounding scenery is nothing short of gorgeous.
The 10 acres of cypress trees that line the river will look even more impressive as you submerge yourself in the water of the swimming hole. If you want a more unique experience, try renting a tube or kayak, and float along the river to a dropoff point two or five miles upstream.
Wimberley sits in the heart of Texas Hill Country and has the charm, beauty, and peacefulness that make the area so popular. Located in Wimberley is Blue Hole Regional Park, home to a central spring-fed swimming hole that sits in the center of a mass of cypress trees.
The swimming hole varies in depth, giving you space to swim or wade in the water. Additionally, many rope swings hang on the sturdy branches of the cypress trees, giving you another chance to summon your courage and feel a rush of adrenaline.
The waterside lawns are extremely well maintained by the park staff, providing you with a space for sunbathing or a post-swimming meal.
After swimming amongst the magic of Texas Hill Country, it might be hard to pull yourself away from nature and return to your home in the city. Thankfully, Collective Retreats offers luxury accommodations that combine the outdoor charm of the Texas countryside and the high-end amenities of modern living.
Our most popular option for lodging in Hill Country is the Summit Tent. After embracing the outdoor experience throughout your weekend getaway, you will be able to comfortably fall back on a king bed at the end of the day to unwind in our 1,500-count plush sheets.
When you wake up, step out onto your personal deck and relax in the lounge chairs as you watch the light from the sunrise illuminate the Hill Country foliage.
Your Summit tent also features a private en suite bathroom with rain-style showers, spa-quality toilettes, and luxurious bathrobes.
For guests with children, the Summit Tent — Family Suite option includes all of the amenities of the classic Summit Tent alongside a smaller, additional tent with two single beds for your little ones located just a few steps away.
Finally, for the newlyweds among us, our Summit Tent — Honeymoon Suite offers even more private outdoor space to relax with your partner.
As the heat in Texas hits your city, you might be dreaming of a refreshing and relaxing oasis. While you might jump to the thought of flying somewhere for escape, have you ever considered the best option might be just a short drive away?
The swimming holes in Texas Hill Country are guaranteed to give you a wonderful experience, with views and waters that might make you feel like you are in the tropics.
Spend your day exploring the outdoors and return to the Collective Retreats ranch to rest and refuel with top-of-the-line accommodations.
Sources:
Blanco State Park | Texas Parks & Wildlife Department
Landa Park | New Braunfels, TX
Colorado Bend State Park — Texas Parks & Wildlife Department
Inks Lake State Park — Texas Parks & Wildlife Department
The Conservatory Collective
