Where Can You Swim in Austin, Texas?
Austin, the Live Music Capital of the World, is also a haven for water lovers. With its numerous rivers, lakes, and pools, there's always a place to take a dip and cool off. Here's a guide to some of the best swimming spots in Austin:
Barton Springs Pool
Barton Springs Pool is one of the most iconic swimming holes in Austin. It's a natural pool fed by Barton Springs, a cold-water spring that maintains a temperature of around 68-70°F year-round. The pool is surrounded by lush greenery and has a historic bathhouse and diving platform. It's a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and people-watching.
Barton Creek Greenbelt
The Barton Creek Greenbelt is a 7.5-mile trail that follows Barton Creek through Austin. The creek has several swimming holes along its length, including Hamilton Pool, Deep Eddy Pool, and Twin Falls. Hamilton Pool is a natural grotto with a waterfall and a deep pool. Deep Eddy Pool is a historic pool with a diving platform and a wading pool. Twin Falls is a series of waterfalls and swimming holes.
Lake Travis
Lake Travis is a large reservoir on the Colorado River that's about 20 miles west of Austin. The lake has numerous coves and beaches that are perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing. Some of the most popular swimming spots on Lake Travis include Lake Travis Marina, Mansfield Dam Park, and Volente Beach.
Lake Austin
Lake Austin is a smaller lake that's located within Austin city limits. The lake has several parks and marinas with swimming areas. Some of the most popular swimming spots on Lake Austin include Emma Long Park, Red Bud Isle, and The Boat House.
Other Swimming Spots
In addition to the above, there are several other great places to swim in Austin. Some of these include:
- Bull Creek District Park
- Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park
- Roy G. Guerrero Park
- Thinkery (a children's museum with a splash pad)
- The Domain (a shopping center with a pool)
Tips for Swimming in Austin
- Be aware of the water temperature. The water in Austin can be quite cold, especially in the spring and fall.
- Wear sunscreen and a hat. The sun can be strong in Austin, so it's important to protect yourself from sunburn.
- Be careful of the current. Some of the swimming holes in Austin have strong currents, so it's important to swim with caution.
- Respect the wildlife. There are a variety of wildlife in Austin, including snakes and alligators. Be careful not to disturb them.
- Leave no trace. Please help to keep Austin's natural areas clean and beautiful by leaving no trace of your visit.
FAQ
- How to find the best swimming hole for you? The best swimming hole for you will depend on your preferences. If you're looking for a natural setting, you might want to try Barton Creek Greenbelt or Hamilton Pool. If you're looking for a more developed area, you might want to try Barton Springs Pool or Lake Travis.
- How to stay safe while swimming in Austin? To stay safe while swimming in Austin, it's important to be aware of the water temperature, wear sunscreen and a hat, be careful of the current, respect the wildlife, and leave no trace.
- What should I bring with me to a swimming hole in Austin? You should bring a towel, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a change of clothes. You might also want to bring a cooler with food and drinks.
- How much does it cost to swim at Barton Springs Pool? The cost of admission to Barton Springs Pool varies depending on the season and day of the week. However, it is typically around $5-$10 per person.
- Where can I find more information about swimming in Austin? You can find more information about swimming in Austin on the Visit Austin website or by contacting the Austin Parks and Recreation Department.
I hope this guide helps you find the perfect swimming spot in Austin!