Does Texas have any hot springs? Yes! Texas does have some beautiful hot springs that are available to the public. These include Big Bend National Park, downtown Austin, and in the Texas Hill Country. Each of these locations offer visitors a unique and tranquil experience with plenty of opportunities to soak up the warmth of their natural mineral waters.
Big Bend National Park is home to over 125 natural hot springs and is known for it’s spectacular desert scenery. Downtown Austin has numerous hot springs tucked away in the city and many of these are within walking distance to popular local attractions such as Lady Bird Lake, the Capitol building, and more. Finally, the Texas Hill Country has some stunning natural hot springs that offer a different kind of getaway experience due to the rolling hills and lush greenery.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day of soaking in the warmth or an adventure-filled weekend away, Texas has plenty to offer! For a splash of pure enchantment, visit one of these most beautiful natural springs in Texas with hot springs TX price.
Why do natural springs form?
Natural springs are formed when the natural pressure of groundwater forces water up to the earth’s surface. This natural pressure is usually generated by water runoff and rainwater entering the aquifer below the surface.
In Texas, natural springs can be found all over the state in areas with rechargeable natural aquifers beneath them. Natural springs in Texas often form in caves, along rivers and near natural pools of groundwater. These natural springs help to replenish the natural aquifers in Texas, which are essential for providing fresh drinking water.
In addition, natural springs provide a natural habitat for wildlife, as well as recreational activities such as swimming and fishing. Natural springs also serve an important role in flood control and irrigation. By allowing natural water to flow freely, natural springs in Texas help reduce the risk of flooding and can provide a consistent source of natural water for agricultural needs.
How many springs are in Texas?
There are over 3,000 springs in Texas. These springs are distributed throughout the state and can be found in many different natural settings, including rivers, creeks, lakes, and even abandoned mines. Many of these springs support unique ecosystems that feature rare plants and animals that are only found in Texas.
Additionally, some of these springs provide essential water sources for local communities. The presence of these springs has contributed to the rich cultural heritage of the Lone Star State and is an important part of its history and identity.
With so many springs present in Texas, there is an abundance of opportunities for visitors to explore them and appreciate their natural beauty. Visitors can take advantage of a variety of activities, including swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. Many of the springs are home to abundant wildlife, providing a great way to observe nature while still enjoying the beauty of the area.
If you’re looking for the best natural springs in Texas, look no further! Here are 11 of our favourites.
The best natural springs in Texas
Summers in Texas are long, hot, and indolent, starting early and lasting far into the months when other states’ leaves are turning. That means Texans will be able to enjoy summer for longer than the rest of the country. A plunge in one of the state’s natural springs is one of the best ways to cool off in the summer.
Barton Springs
The Edwards Aquifer feeds Barton Springs’ pure waters, which may be mistaken for a pool. As a result, the spring waters are always a pleasant 70 degrees. Enjoy them from the shaded, scenic grassy slopes or the rocky outcroppings near the pool’s southern side, where rare salamanders may be found.
Location: Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704, United States
Phone number: 512-974-6300
Open Hour:
- Sunday: 5:00 am – 8:00 am
- Wednesday: 5:00 am – 9:00 am
- Thursday: 5:00 am – 9:00 am
Price: ~9$( non-resident, adult)
Jacob’s Well
Jacob’s Well, a spring-fed pool with a dark, round hole that leads to Texas’ longest underwater cave system, is perhaps the creepiest swimming location in the state. The well, which is only 12 feet wide yet stretches 23 feet deep (before turning below and expanding to even deeper depths), appears to be a doorway to another world. Daredevils who plunge into the deep seas from the cliffs above utilize it exclusively.
Location: 1699 Mt Sharp Rd, Wimberley, TX 78676, United States
Phone number: 512-214-4593
Open Hour: Open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m
Price: $9
Hancock Springs Pool
Although it is Texas’ oldest spring-fed pool, Hancock Springs Pool hasn’t been as overwhelmed by swimmers as some other best natural springs in Texas. Like Barton Springs and Balmorhea, Hancock is one of the few pools in Texas supplied by an artesian spring that supplies cold 70-degree water. Nothing feels better when it’s still September, and temperatures are approaching 100 degrees.
Location: US-281, Lampasas, TX 76550, United States
Phone number: 512-556-4048
Open Hour:
- Open Thursdays to Saturdays 12:00 to 19:00
- Sundays from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m
- Close Mon, Tues, Wed
Price: ~3.5$ (adult)
Krause Springs
If you want to choose a natural springs in Texas Hill Country, this is the right place. The Krause family has held the 115-acre property where Krause Springs pool is located for more than 50 years. However, the family has permitted Texans to visit its shaded Hill Country hideaway for swimming, camping, and resting in this ideal spring-fed location.
Location: 424 Co Rd 404, Spicewood, TX 78669, United States
Phone number: 401-236-7554
Open Hour: Open Saturdays 9 a.m. to 8 p.m
Price: ~8$ (adult)
Hamilton Pool Preserve
Travel to the Hamilton Pool Preserve, one of Texas’ most picturesque swimming holes, to see some of the region’s most magnificent water. The Pedernales River feeds the pool, which forms a 50-foot waterfall that cascades over a limestone cliff to create this lovely Texas natural springs place. On a visit to Hamilton Pool, visitors may see beautiful foliage as well as a variety of fauna, including the Golden-Cheeked Warbler.
Check the Hamilton Pool webpage before you travel to be sure swimming is permitted during your stay. Often, it is, although the pool may be closed for visitor safety due to falling boulders or severe weather.
Location: 24300 Hamilton Pool Rd, Dripping Springs, TX 78620, United States
Phone number: 512-264-2740
Open Hour: Open Saturdays 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m
Price: $35
See: How Often Does It Snow In Texas?
Guadalupe River State Park
Guadalupe River State Park in Spring Branch offers a variety of activities. Many visitors come to the region for the fantastic swimming, but the majestic Guadalupe River offers so much more while boasting some of Texas’ purest water!
Guests visiting the Guadalupe River may also fish, tub, and canoe from numerous locations along the river. Bring your own boat or canoe and enjoy the Paddling Trail at Guadalupe River State Park. On a tour of your choosing encompassing 4, 15, or 19 miles of waterways, see a variety of ponds, streams, and lakes. Fishing equipment may be leased within the park if you’re in the area to fish, but all other equipment must be carried with you.
Visitors may enjoy approximately 13 miles of hiking and bike paths for land-based excursions. There are treks to suit all ages and experience levels, with a range of paths to select from. Along the paths, geocaching is also a popular pastime! Equestrians who wish to bring their own horses for a ride in the park may do so on a few paths, but horses are not permitted to sleep in the park overnight.
With so much to see and do, you may want to prolong your trip, thus camping is a popular alternative for many visitors. The park has 85 campsites with water and electricity, as well as 9 basic walk-in sites. If you intend to camp in the region, you should make a reservation.
Location: 3350 Park Rd 31, Texas 78070, United States
Phone number: 830-438-2656
Open Hour: Open Saturdays 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m
Big Bend National Park Hot Springs
Big Bend National Park is the place to go if you want to see the greatest hot natural springs in Texas. This area was occupied by indigenous peoples of the region thousands of years ago, and tourists may see their rock art that has been preserved over time. The Hot Springs Post Office, which was erected in the early 1900s, is also nearby, allowing tourists to take a trip back in time!
The hot spring is geothermally heated and maintains a constant temperature of 105 degrees. The natural salts that pour into the waters from the rocks are supposed to provide therapeutic properties for those who bathe there. A journey here is wonderfully calming and revitalizing for many people. Swimming is prohibited in this location, so if you make the trip, be prepared for a relaxing bath and a less active water day.
Guests may go to the hot springs for a half-mile hike if they want to get some exercise while visiting Big Bend.
If you want a longer journey, you can skip the hot springs and continue on the route that runs along a cliff overlooking the Rio Grande. Camping is not permitted in the area around the hot springs, however there are campgrounds throughout Big Bend if you want to stay the night!
Location: Big Bend National Park, TX, United States
Phone number: 432-477-2251
Open Hour: Open all day
Related: Malaquite Campground Reviews updated 2023
Balmorhea State Park
Look no farther than the pool in Balmorhea State Park if you’re looking for the world’s largest spring-fed swimming pool. With some of Texas’ cleanest water, you won’t want to miss out on the chance to plunge in and swim in these waters.
Swimming is the most popular activity here, but it’s also one of the few places on our list that allows snorkeling and scuba diving. You must carry your own equipment and have the relevant licenses if you want to participate in these activities. The pool is up to 25 feet deep and maintains a constant temperature of 76 degrees, making it ideal for year-round swimming. The park admission fee must be paid, but no reservations are necessary.
Geocaching, bird watching, and visiting the restored desert wetlands in the vicinity are some of the other activities available. Camping is a fantastic option to maximize your time in Balmorhea. All of the campsites offer electricity and must be booked ahead of time. Make sure to check the website for pricing and availability.
Location: 9207 TX-17, Toyahvale, TX 79786, United States
Phone number: 432-375-2370
Open Hour: Open Saturdays 8 a.m. to 7:30 p.m
Price: $7 per person, age 13 and older
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Comal Springs
The Comal Springs are Texas’ biggest springs. Landa Park is home to seven big springs as well as many minor springs. This natural springs in Texas were formerly a popular gathering spot for local indigenous people, resulting in an abundance of antiques and archeological riches — you never know what you’ll uncover here!
Visitors to Comal Springs and Landa Park may expect to swim in a vast spring-fed swimming hole, which is ideal for cooling down on hot days. While swimming is a major attraction, the region also provides a variety of other activities and experiences not found elsewhere on our list.
Bring your golf clubs to play the links on the Landa Park golf course or paddle boat around the park to get a dry tour of the waterways. The access to a small train trip will delight the kids, and any activity may be topped off with a nice picnic.
Guests may trek around the park on many nature routes, observing the local plants and fauna, including the endangered fountain darters, which can be seen from a paddleboat. The Comal River and nearby springs are significant in the area’s history. For history aficionados, visit the Comal Springs website to read about the area’s varied uses and compare and contrast past and present photographs.
Location: 1320 N. Interstate HWY 35, New Braunfels, TX 78130, United States
Phone number: (830) 625-8075
Open Hour: 7am-7pm 7 days a week
Price: $15-22 per person
Boykin Springs Recreation Area
In Zavalla, Boykin Springs is a flourishing rocky spring. There are many reasons to visit and appreciate this spectacular water landmark, in addition to experiencing one of the most stunning natural springs in Texas.
The most popular activity in Boykin Springs Recreation Area is camping, which is provided in both campsites and cabins. Every camper is guaranteed to find a space that meets their needs, with a variety of campsites ranging from rustic sites to RV access. Although drinking water is provided throughout the park, there is no water access at any of the campsites.
Fishing directly from the springs, ample hiking on the Sawmill Hiking Trail, and swimming in the region are all options. There are several swimming locations, including one with a sandy beach, ideal for spending a day on the sea with family.
The rocky dam, which has many waterfalls, has become a popular photo location and is located beside a family-friendly swimming hole.
Location: Zavalla, TX 75980, United States
Phone number: 936-897-1068
Open Hour: Temporarily closed
Price: $25
Blue Hole Regional Park
Wimberley, Texas, saved these renowned springs from development in 2005, preserving them for future generations. The land has been transformed into a 126-acre park that welcomes visitors of all ages.
Swimming is available every day during the summer and on weekends in May and September. To swim at Blue Hole, you must make a reservation, so make sure to do so ahead of time. The park’s swimming part is closed from October to April, but there are plenty more reasons to visit and enjoy the surrounding region.
More places to visit: The Absolute Best Places to See Bluebonnets in Texas
Whether you want to relax in the hot springs of Big Bend or scuba dive in the crystal blue waters of Balmorhea State Park, Texas has a spring eager to welcome you for a day on the water. With springs in all of Texas’ major cities, these are lovely day getaways for anyone looking to get away from the noise and bustle of the state’s most populous places. Bring your swimwear and come see the natural wonders that await you at Texas’ most beautiful springs!
Location: 333 Blue Hole Ln, Wimberley, TX 78676, United States
Phone number: 512-660-9111
Open Hour: 8 am – 8:30 pm
Price: $25
Map of natural springs in Texas
Check out our map of natural spring in Texas, so you can find the perfect one near you.
FAQs
Are there alligators in natural springs?
There is always a chance that alligators may be present in natural springs, so it is important to exercise caution. The presence of alligators is usually more common near freshwater bodies like rivers, lakes, and wetlands. In these cases, natural springs may be closed for swimming due to alligator activity. It doesn’t happen often, but it does happen at times. To stay safe, be sure to read any posted signage and follow local regulations.
Are natural springs open year-round?
Most natural springs in Texas are open year round, but some may be closed seasonally due to natural hazards or local wildlife. Be sure to check with the local authorities for any closures before planning your visit.
Can you bathe in natural hot springs?
Due to the naturally high temperatures of natural hot springs, bathing is not recommended as it can be harmful to your health. However, there are many natural hot springs in Texas that are open for soaking and provide a safe temperature to do so. These natural hot springs contain minerals that can be beneficial to your health, but make sure to follow any posted instructions and the advice of a doctor before submerging yourself in natural hot springs.
Why do people put towels on their head in hot springs?
Putting a wet towel on one’s head while bathing in natural hot springs is a common practice. This is done to help prevent dizziness caused by hot blood rushing into one’s head. Additionally, wrapping a wet towel around the body can help keep one cool and comfortable while soaking in natural hot springs.
When should I visit natural springs in Texas?
The best time to visit natural springs in Texas is typically in the spring and early summer. During this time of year, the temperatures are milder, making it perfect for natural swimming. However, you should also come early in the morning as the beach will be full by 10 a.m., especially in the summer. Additionally, some natural springs have limited access during certain times of the year, so be sure to check local regulations before planning your visit.
Are natural springs in Texas safe for swimming?
Yes, natural springs in Texas are generally safe for swimming if you take the necessary precautions. Most natural springs are tested regularly for water quality and many have lifeguards on duty to ensure safety. It is important to remember that natural springs often contain natural hazards such as rocks and strong currents, so caution should always be taken when swimming.
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Conclusion
However, you will find detailed information about the top 11 most beautiful natural springs in Texas, which will assist you in planning the perfect vacation in Palm Springs. Have you ever visited any of these places? In a comment, please describe what happened. I hope you and your family have a wonderful holiday season. I appreciate your time in reading this, and I hope to see you again soon.
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