Hamilton Pool
Hamilton Pool is one of the best swimming holes in Texas – and a great place to picnic, swim, and spend some time on a hot Texas summer day.
Make sure you also check Texas Outside’s list of The Best Swimming Holes in Texas.
Hamilton Pool Location
Hamilton Pool Preserve is located about 30 miles west of Austin on FM 3238. From SH 71/U.S. 290 junction southwest of Austin, take SH 71 about 81/2miles to FM 3238 (Hamilton Pool Road), turn left and travel about 13 miles to the preserve. The entrance to the 232-acre preserve is on the right. Image by Shaun Goffe
Access to Hamilton Pool is now by reservation only! For information regarding reservations please call (512) 854-PARK (7275) or visit the Hamilton Pool website reservation page.
The preserve is managed as a natural area (preserve) with emphasis on habitat protection and restoration, environmental education for public and private groups, and ongoing research; it offers limited, day-use only, with recreational opportunities such as picnicking, hiking, swimming and nature study.
Here are some numbers to call for more information:
- County Parks information – (512) 854-7275
- Hamilton Pool information – (512) 264-2740
About Hamilton Preserve
The preserve’s pool and grotto were formed when the dome of an underground river collapsed due to massive erosion thousands of years ago.
There is a 45 foot water fall creating a great swimming hole. You need to also hike some of the nature trails along the creek. Swimming is allowed only when the water quality meets safe standards. Water quality is monitored regularly. Updated information is posted at the entrance booth and provided on the park’s telephone recorder message (512 264-2740). The parking lot is sized for 75 cars, and when all spaces are taken, cars are held up at the gate until a space opens. Drinking water or concessions are not available in the preserve; chemical toilets are provided.
Hours of operation
- 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily.
- There is an entrance fee.
- Travis County honors the Federal Golden Age Passport and the Senior Citizen State Pass.
Pets are not allowed, even on leashes. Neither are visitors allowed to leave pets in cars while they hike and visit the water fall. Visitors to Hamilton Pool, please leave your pets at home for this excursion.
Extreme care is crucial for the delicate and beautiful ecosystem which forms the Hamilton Pool Preserve. Visitors are asked to please understand the necessary rules for preserving the park’s unique beauty for generations to come.
Helpful Hints…
The well-marked hiking trail leads from the parking lot to Hamilton Creek. At the creek, the trail to the right goes to the pool and the trail to the left follows the creek downstream to the Pedernales River. Bald cypress trees, lush, diverse plant communities, and a variety of wildlife species occupy the grotto and downstream areas. The hike from the parking lot to the pool is about 1/2-mile round-trip; the hike along the creek from the pool to the river is about 3/4 mile, or l 1/2 miles round-trip from the parking lot.
If you’re looking for swimming holes, then you need to check out The Best Swimming Holes in Texas Page – make it a goal to try all of them.
Before you leave, make sure you check out some of the other sections of Texas Outside
| Austin & Central Texas — click here to find outdoor activities and fun things to do in Austin or Central Texas |
| Texas State Parks — find a State park or private campground, read a review, and make a reservation |
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Texas Outside’s Golfing Texas — locate one of over 500 Texas Golf Courses, browse the golf course ratings and reviews, find a special price, and book a tee time
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Lakes & Boating — check out the Texas lakes section with lake reviews, houseboating, lake camping, watercraft rentals, marinas and more
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| Hiking, Biking, & More Activities — find information about lots of sporting activities in Texas |
| Texas Hunting — hunting resources, guides, discounts on hunts, and more |
| Fishing — find a fishing guide and other fishing information |
| Texas Destinations — fun things to do in Texas Cities plus lodging, restaurants, and entertainment |
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Texas Music — if you like Texas music, this is where you’ll find some events, resources, and reviews of recent outdoor concerts
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Texas Outdoor Weddings — here you will find outdoor venues, wedding vendors, and much more to help you plan a wonderful outdoor wedding
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Author: Mike Sharp
I have a passion for travel and outdoor activities, and now I'm enjoying retired life. I will continue my traveling, golfing, boating, and enjoying life all across the great state of Texas.
