Texas summers can be brutally hot, but locals know the best spots to cool off away from crowded public pools. Tucked between limestone cliffs, nestled in state parks, or hidden down unmarked trails, these natural swimming spots offer crystal-clear waters and breathtaking scenery. While some Texans might not be thrilled about sharing their favorite hideaways, these nine secret swimming holes are too spectacular not to experience at least once.
1. Medicine Wall Swimming Hole
Local rock climbers discovered this hidden gem while scaling the limestone cliffs of northern San Antonio. The narrow, spring-fed creek widens into a surprisingly deep pool perfect for cooling off after a hike.
Massive cypress trees provide welcome shade, their gnarled roots creating natural seating areas along the rocky banks. The water maintains a refreshing temperature year-round thanks to the underground springs feeding it.
Access requires a moderate 30-minute hike through undeveloped parkland, which naturally limits visitors. Bring water shoes – the limestone bottom can be slippery with algae during summer months.
2. Chalk Ridge Falls
Just below Stillhouse Hollow Lake dam, this series of limestone cascades creates multiple swimming opportunities along the Lampasas River. The main attraction isn’t actually the waterfall but the rope swing hanging from a sturdy oak tree downstream.
Ancient fossils embedded in the riverbed tell stories of when this entire region was once an ancient seabed. Careful eyes might spot ammonites and other prehistoric treasures between swims.
A rickety suspension bridge adds adventure to the approach, swaying gently as hikers cross to reach the deepest swimming hole. Early mornings often reveal deer and wild turkeys coming to drink from the clear waters.
3. The Narrows on the Blanco River
Limestone walls rise dramatically on both sides as the Blanco River squeezes through this natural channel. During summer, water levels drop to create perfect swimming conditions with gentle currents and multiple deep pools.
Massive boulders scattered throughout provide natural diving platforms and sunbathing spots. The white limestone reflects sunlight, giving the water an otherworldly blue glow on clear days.
Located on private property, access requires permission from local landowners who occasionally allow respectful visitors. This gatekeeping has preserved The Narrows’ pristine condition while other swimming holes suffer from overuse and litter.
4. Hancock Springs Free Flow Pool
Fed by artesian springs pumping 800 gallons per minute, this historic pool in Lampasas maintains a constant 72 degrees year-round. Built in 1911, it’s one of the few remaining spring-fed pools with a natural bottom rather than concrete.
Locals claim the mineral-rich waters have healing properties – a belief dating back to Native American tribes who considered the springs sacred. The pool’s depth gradually increases from a shallow wading area to a surprisingly deep diving section.
Towering pecan trees provide dappled shade along the grassy banks where generations of Texans have picnicked. The modest entrance fee helps maintain this historic site that once attracted health-seekers from across the country.
5. Gorman Falls Swimming Basin
Hidden beneath one of Texas’ most spectacular waterfalls, this travertine-lined basin catches the cool waters cascading down fern-covered cliffs. Few visitors realize swimming is permitted here – most turn back after photographing the falls from designated viewpoints.
The challenging trail and remote location ensure you’ll rarely share this spot with more than a handful of others. Travertine formations continue to grow underwater, creating otherworldly sculptures beneath the surface.
Morning mist often hangs over the basin, creating an almost prehistoric atmosphere as sunlight filters through the surrounding canyon. The water temperature remains refreshingly cool even during August heat waves, making it worth the effort to reach.
6. Hamilton Pool Preserve
A collapsed grotto created thousands of years ago, Hamilton Pool feels like stepping into another world. Emerald waters collect in a natural limestone basin, while a 50-foot waterfall cascades over mossy rocks.
The surrounding box canyon creates perfect acoustics – listen for the gentle echo of water droplets as you float beneath the overhanging dome. Reservation requirements keep crowds manageable, preserving this ecological wonder.
Morning visits offer the best lighting for photographs and a higher chance of having sections of the pool to yourself. The short hike from the parking area builds anticipation for the breathtaking reveal.
7. Tonkawa Springs
Ancient live oaks drape Spanish moss over this spring-fed creek where Tonkawa tribes once camped. The springs bubble up through white sand, creating a natural pool that gradually deepens as it flows downstream.
Privately owned for generations by a ranching family, limited day passes keep this swimming hole pristine. The creek’s sandy bottom feels luxurious underfoot – a stark contrast to the typical rocky limestone found in most Texas swimming spots.
Floating in these crystal waters, you might spot fossil seashells embedded in the banks, remnants from when this high ground was once covered by an ancient sea. The springs maintain a consistent 68 degrees, providing relief even during triple-digit summer days.
8. Cypress Creek Swimming Hole
Massive cypress trees create a natural cathedral over this remote swimming spot where the creek widens and deepens before joining the Pedernales River. Smooth limestone ledges form natural water slides that generations of local children have polished to a slick finish.
Rope swings dangle from sturdy branches, offering thrilling entries into the deepest sections. During drought years, hidden petroglyphs sometimes become visible on submerged rocks – evidence of indigenous peoples who gathered here centuries ago.
Bald cypress knees create fascinating underwater obstacles for swimmers to explore. The creek’s unusual clarity comes from filtering through miles of limestone caverns before emerging at this idyllic spot far from major highways.
9. Las Moras Springs
A hidden oasis in the arid borderlands, Las Moras Springs produces over 7 million gallons of crystal-clear water daily. The springs feed a historic swimming pool built by the military in the 1920s, complete with stone walls and a natural bottom.
Desert wildlife congregates here at dawn and dusk – lucky swimmers might spot javelinas, roadrunners, or even the occasional mountain lion coming to drink. The name “Las Moras” comes from the wild mulberry trees that once flourished along the banks.
Located within Fort Clark Historic District, swimmers float above the remnants of an old cavalry crossing where soldiers once watered their horses. The constant 68-degree water feels bracingly cold when first entering but perfectly refreshing once acclimated.
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