Swimming Holes in Dripping Springs, TX

Some of the best places to cool off from the hot summer temperatures are located in the Dripping Springs, TX area. Brutal Texas summers are undeniable, but if you can pull yourself away from the AC, there are a multitude of swimming holes in Dripping Springs and Driftwood - including spring-fed rivers and creeks - that combine refreshingly cool water with an abundance of scenic beauty.

If you’re looking for a breathtaking place to cool off and appreciate nature, then jump into one of Dripping Springs' best swimming holes! Check out our ultimate guide to the best places to swim in the Texas Hill Country and Central Texas.

The PEDERNALES RIVER

All along the Pedernales River are prime spots to take a dip in the delightfully cool water, or just post up in a lawn chair with a local brew in hand. For public access, swim at either the State Park, Pedernales Falls, or at Reimers Ranch, a Travis County Park.

Pedernales Falls State Park:

Visitors must make an online reservation online to visit Pedernales Falls State Park.
The easy going Pedernales river is cool, clear and a great destination for an afternoon swim with the family. One of the most popular places to swim at the State Park is within the swimming area. The swimming area at PFSP features a sandy beach area, with some rapids, depending on rain levels, as well as calm, wide-open portions. Large limestone rocks dot the landscape and the large cypress trees offer shade for those hot summer days.

Reimers Ranch:

No reservations are required to enter Reimers Ranch, but make sure to check their website for capacity limits.

Swimming at Reimers Ranch is a breeze! To get to the river, there's about a 300-yard hike from the parking lot to the river. The stretch of Pedernales River to swim in is about three to four miles in length. Some areas of the river are shallow enough for little ones while some areas of water are up to 10 feet deep. Make sure to Reimers Ranch website before you go for river conditions and capacity limits. Make sure to pack your sun hats, and wear sunscreen, because shade is very limited along the river!

CAMP BEN MCCULLOCH

Located off 1826 across the street from the world-famous Salt Lick BBQ is Camp Ben McCulloch and flowing through Camp Ben is Onion Creek. This spring fed, crisp and clean little creek flows particularly well after a spring rain and is a popular destination for local folks. Hop in a tube or sit back and watch kids fly off the rope swing and enjoy the delicious smells wafting from across the road at the best little BBQ joint in Texas. After your swim, pick up some delicious BBQ ribs, sausage, and sides or a bottle of wine from nearby wineries like Salt Lick Cellars or Fall Creek Vineyards.

FOUNDERS MEMORIAL PARK & POOL

Head to Founders Memorial Park for summer fun in Dripping Springs. Located on the park grounds is a walking trail, the Dr. Pound Historical Farmstead (check website online for openings), a massive playscape and the Founders Memorial Pool. Founders Memorial Pool will open May 22nd for the swim season! Reservations are required!

Learn More about Founders Memorial Pool.

CAMP LUCY RESORT POOL PASS - BACK WITH A SPLASH!

The Camp Lucy pool day passes are back beginning Monday, March 8th! Relax by the pool and enjoy your favorite Tillie's cocktails every Sunday-Thursday beginning at 12pm. Availability is limited, and reservations are required. Please call Tillie's at 512-894-2633 to make your reservation.

Please note: Day passes are available for guests 18+. No children will be allowed. $50/person entry fee to be applied in its entirety as a Tillie's Camp Lucy food and beverage credit. Outside food, alcohol coolers, and/or personal floats are not allowed at the pool area.

Pool Pass

Hamilton Pool Preserve

*currently no swimming allowed at Hamilton Pool. Hamilton Pool, one of the most beautiful watering holes in Central Texas, will not allow swimmers this summer or for the foreseeable future due to falling rocks. Travis County Parks has also closed the section of the trail that runs underneath the overhanging cliff.*

Hamilton Pool has been a popular swimming destination for years, but due to the pandemic, swimming at the natural swimming pool is currently not allowed. Check their website for the most up-to-date information regarding swimming at Hamilton Pool.

Hamilton Pool Preserve is a historic swimming hole that was designated a preserve by the Travis County Commissioner's Court in 1990. Located 3/4 mile upstream from its confluence with the Pedernales River, Hamilton Creek spills out over limestone outcroppings to create a 50 foot waterfall as it plunges into the head of a steep box canyon. The waterfall never completely dries up, but in dry times it does slow to a trickle. However, the pool's water level stays pretty constant, even during periods of drought.

For hiking reservations and more information, visit the Preserve's website: Hamilton Pool Preserve

FOr other Fun summer activities, check out our 2021 dripping springs, tx summer bucket list:

Summer Bucket List