Beat the Texas Heat at These Top Swimming Spots

May 10, 2024, 4:23 AM – Published by Rebecca Salinas, Digital Journalist

With temperatures soaring above 84 degrees, Texans are looking for a place to cool off this summer. Thankfully, Texas is blessed with numerous rivers, lakes, and swimming holes, providing ample spots for swimming, tubing, and paddling. Materials on Things To Do, Outdoors, San Antonio, Spring Branch, and Canyon Lake suggest some top-notch and less-known swim places around San Antonio to beat the heat.

Exceptional Spots for a Refreshing Dip

This list, although not all-encompassing, offers an ample selection of backdrops for a refreshing escape from the Texas heat. Here are some top spots:

Barton Springs

Located within Zilker Park’s 358 acres in Austin, Barton Springs is a must-visit. The three-acre pool is fed by underground springs, with temperatures hovering between 68-70 degrees throughout the year. Entry fees apply between spring break and Halloween, leaving the rest of the year free. Tickets can be purchased online for non-Austin residents between $4 and $9.

Blanco State Park

Just 50 miles north of downtown San Antonio, this state park offers picturesque swimming spots along the river, and a wading pool for children near the Blanco River dam. Entry fees are $5 for adults, with children aged 12 and under granted free access.

Blue Hole in Wimberley

Blue Hole Regional Park, a beloved Hill Country gem offers daily passes range between $8 – $12 per person for non-Wimberley residents. Here, the beauty of nature meets the joy of the community for endless summer fun and memories.

Canyon Lake

Located about an hour north of downtown San Antonio, Canyon Lake boasts three designated swim beaches: Comal and Canyon Parks for public use and Potters Creek Park for camping guests. As of May 6, 2024, the lake is 58.6% full, and sadly, all public boat ramps are closed.

Guadalupe River State Park

Just 30 miles north of San Antonio in Spring Branch, this state park offers a quick getaway for swimming and hiking. Styrofoam is prohibited in the river, and the park often reaches capacity during its busy season from March through November.

Krause Springs

In Spicewood, Krause Springs is a famous family-owned swimming and camping site offering 32 springs, a manmade pool, a natural pool, online reservations, and overnight camping. Daily fees apply for adults and kids 4-11, and children under 4 get in for free.

These swimming spots and many more across the state offer residents and visitors a chance to cool off, engage in summer activities, and make lasting memories. As the summer heat persists, these swimming holes serve as great escapes into the heart of nature, away from concrete and bustling city life. Explore Texas like never before, just remember to prepare adequately for your swim day!

Rebecca Salinas is an award-winning digital journalist who joined in 2019. She reports on a variety of topics for all Texans.