Hamilton Pool Preserve
A collapsed grotto with a 50-foot waterfall into a jade pool. Reservation required, and swimming is often closed after rain.
A collapsed grotto with a 50-foot waterfall spilling into a jade-green natural pool surrounded by massive limestone overhangs draped in ferns and moss. It is one of the most stunning natural swimming holes in Texas and kids are awestruck the moment they see it. Two things decide whether the trip works. Reservations are mandatory every day of the week and sell out well ahead. And swimming is a separate question from entry: after heavy rain the bacteria count rises and the county closes the water, sometimes at short notice and sometimes for weeks, so a reservation buys you entry and never guarantees a swim. The preserve stays open for hiking either way, and the grotto is worth seeing dry. Call the daily status line before committing to the drive. The quarter-mile trail from the parking area descends steeply, so it is not suitable for very young children or strollers.
Pricing
$12/vehicle plus $5/person to swim; reservation required every day of the week and sells out (verify)
Common Questions
- How much does Hamilton Pool Preserve cost?
- Hamilton Pool Preserve charges admission. $12/vehicle plus $5/person to swim; reservation required every day of the week and sells out (verify)
- What ages is Hamilton Pool Preserve good for?
- Hamilton Pool Preserve is best for kids ages 5 to 18+.
- Is Hamilton Pool Preserve stroller friendly?
- No, Hamilton Pool Preserve is not considered stroller friendly.
- Can I bring my dog to Hamilton Pool Preserve?
- No, dogs are not allowed at Hamilton Pool Preserve.
- How hard is Hamilton Pool Preserve?
- The difficulty level is moderate. Plan for about 2 hours.
- Is Hamilton Pool Preserve free?
- No, there is a cost to visit Hamilton Pool Preserve. $12/vehicle plus $5/person to swim; reservation required every day of the week and sells out (verify)
- What should I bring to Hamilton Pool Preserve?
- Swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, water shoes, change of clothes
- How long does Hamilton Pool Preserve take?
- Most families spend about 2 hours at Hamilton Pool Preserve.
- When is the best time to visit Hamilton Pool Preserve?
- Ring the daily status line on 512-854-2581 before you drive out - swimming closes after rain and a reservation does not guarantee it.