Jacob's Well Natural Area
Crystal-clear artesian spring near Wimberley TX with three miles of free trails. Swimming is cancelled; the well overlook stays open.
A crystal-clear artesian spring that wells up from a deep underwater cave system, long one of the most photographed swimming holes in Texas. Swimming has been closed since 2022 - a multi-year drought and heavy pumping from the Middle Trinity Aquifer have dropped the flow too low to be safe, and Hays County has suspended the swim season until further notice with no date to reopen. What is open is the rest of the natural area: about three miles of trail across 81 acres, a quarter-mile walk down to the well itself, and an overlook where you can still see straight into the mouth of the cave. Free, no reservation, and far quieter than it used to be.
Pricing
Free. Hiking and the well overlook need no reservation and no day-use fee. The old $9 swim reservation no longer exists - swimming is cancelled until further notice.
Common Questions
- How much does Jacob's Well Natural Area cost?
- Jacob's Well Natural Area is free to visit. Free. Hiking and the well overlook need no reservation and no day-use fee. The old $9 swim reservation no longer exists - swimming is cancelled until further notice.
- What ages is Jacob's Well Natural Area good for?
- Jacob's Well Natural Area is best for kids ages 6 to 18+.
- Is Jacob's Well Natural Area stroller friendly?
- No, Jacob's Well Natural Area is not considered stroller friendly.
- Can I bring my dog to Jacob's Well Natural Area?
- No, dogs are not allowed at Jacob's Well Natural Area.
- How hard is Jacob's Well Natural Area?
- The difficulty level is moderate. Plan for about 2 hours.
- Is Jacob's Well Natural Area free?
- Yes, Jacob's Well Natural Area is free!
- What should I bring to Jacob's Well Natural Area?
- Sturdy shoes for the rocky trail down to the well, drinking water, sunscreen and a hat. No swimsuit needed - swimming is closed. No pets, glass or coolers.
- How long does Jacob's Well Natural Area take?
- Most families spend about 2 hours at Jacob's Well Natural Area.
- When is the best time to visit Jacob's Well Natural Area?
- Open daily 8am to 6pm, last entry 5:30pm. Year-round - with swimming closed the summer crowds are gone, and cooler months are the most pleasant for the trails. Check the Hays County parks page before driving out; the swim closure is reviewed as flow changes.
- Is there parking at Jacob's Well Natural Area?
- Free parking lot at the natural area entrance off Jacob's Well Road; arrive 15 minutes before your reservation window - it is a short walk down to the swimming area.