Swimming Holes in the Texas Hill Country (Hamilton Pool Guide)

1. What Makes Hamilton Pool So Special?

Hamilton Pool is a natural pool that was formed thousands of years ago when the dome of an underground river collapsed due to massive erosion. This created a stunning canyon and grotto. The pool is fed by Hamilton Creek, which spills out over the limestone cliffs to create the iconic 50-foot (15-meter) waterfall.

It’s part of the Balcones Canyonlands Preserve, a protected habitat for native plants and wildlife. This isn’t just a swimming hole; it’s a fragile ecological area, which is why access is so strictly controlled.

2. The Reservation System: You MUST Read This

This is the most critical piece of information for any traveler: You cannot, under any circumstances, just show up and get in. Hamilton Pool operates on a strict online reservation system to protect the environment and prevent overcrowding.

• Reservations are Mandatory: You must book a time slot in advance through the official Travis County Parks website. Slots are released in batches and can sell out months in advance, especially for summer weekends.
• It’s a Two-Part Fee:
  1. You will pay a Reservation Fee (per vehicle) online with a credit card when you book your slot.
  2. You will also pay an Entrance Fee (per person) when you arrive at the preserve.
• CASH ONLY AT THE GATE: The entrance fee paid upon arrival is cash only. They do not accept credit cards at the preserve. Do not make the long drive out there without cash.

Plan ahead! If Hamilton Pool is a “must-do” on your Texas trip, make this the very first thing you book.

3. What to Expect When You Arrive

Once you have your reservation and your cash, you’re ready to go. Here’s what the experience is like:

• The Hike Down: From the parking lot, it’s a rugged 0.25-mile (0.4 km) trail down to the pool. This is not a paved path. It is steep and uneven in places, with stone steps. You must wear sturdy shoes; flip-flops are a bad idea for the hike.
• The Grotto & Beach: The trail opens up to the stunning grotto. There is a small, sandy beach area to set your things down. You can walk all the way around and behind the waterfall, which is a key part of the experience.
• The Waterfall: The flow of the waterfall depends entirely on recent rainfall. After a dry spell, it may be just a trickle. After a heavy rain, it will be a powerful torrent.
• Facilities: Facilities are very limited. There are composting toilets in the parking lot and near the pool. There is no running water (bring your own) and no lifeguards, shops, or food.

4. A Note on Swimming & Water Quality

Here is another crucial fact: Swimming is not guaranteed.

The water quality is monitored regularly. After heavy rains, runoff can cause bacteria levels (E. coli) to rise to unsafe levels, and swimming will be prohibited. The county’s website will typically post the current swimming status, but it can change without notice. Even if swimming is closed, the preserve is still open for hiking and enjoying the view—which is worth the trip on its own.

5. Key Rules and What to Bring

To keep the preserve beautiful, the rules are strictly enforced.

Key Rules

• No Pets: Dogs are not allowed, not even in your car.
• No Drones: Drones are strictly prohibited.
• No Glass Bottles: Bring your water in reusable containers.
• No Lifeguard: You swim at your own risk.
• Stay on Trails: Do not climb on the delicate rock formations or cliffs.

Your Packing List

• Reservation Printout (or on your phone).
• CASH for the per-person entrance fee.
• Plenty of Drinking Water: There is no potable water on-site.
• Good Hiking Shoes or sturdy sandals for the trail.
• Swimsuit and Towel.
• Sunscreen and a Hat.
• A small bag for your trash (Pack it in, pack it out!).

6. Can’t Get a Reservation? Try These Hill Country Gems

If you couldn’t get a reservation for Hamilton Pool, don’t despair! The Hill Country is full of amazing swimming spots. As your Texas guides, we highly recommend these alternatives:

• Krause Springs (Spicewood): A privately-owned camping and swimming site with 32 springs (several of which feed a man-made and a natural pool) and a beautiful butterfly garden.
• Barton Springs Pool (Austin): Located right in Austin, this massive three-acre spring-fed pool stays a cool 68-70°F (20-21°C) year-round. It’s an essential Austin experience.
• Blue Hole Regional Park (Wimberley): A stunning, tree-lined swimming hole with iconic rope swings. It also requires reservations in the summer, but it’s another fantastic option.

Hamilton Pool is truly one of the most beautiful places in Texas, but it requires more planning than any other stop on your trip. Follow these steps, and you’ll be rewarded with an experience you will never forget.