A beloved Austin swimming hole where Bull Creek pools up among flat limestone slabs creating natural wading areas that are ideal for young kids. The water is shallow enough in most spots that toddlers can splash safely while older kids explore upstream through the rocky creek bed. Shaded picnic areas line the banks and parking fills up fast on hot weekends so arriving early is essential.
A natural horseshoe-shaped waterfall on the Guadalupe River near the charming Hill Country town of Comfort where kids can play in the shallow rapids above the falls and wade in the calm pool below. The spot is accessible from a roadside pull-off and local families have been coming here for generations. There are no facilities so pack what you need but the natural beauty more than makes up for the lack of amenities. The town of Comfort itself has great food and antique shops for a post-swim stop.
A lesser-known section of Pedernales Falls State Park where families can wade across the river at a historic low-water crossing and explore rocky pools on the other side. The crossing itself is fun for kids who love getting their feet wet and the flat limestone river bottom creates natural wading pools. This area is much less crowded than the main falls overlook and gives families room to spread out and enjoy the river at their own pace.
A LCRA park along a beautiful stretch of the Pedernales River with swimming access, picnic areas, and a nature trail through riparian woodland. The shallow limestone pools along the riverbank are perfect for kids to wade and splash. It is a much less crowded alternative to Pedernales Falls State Park just downstream. Disc golf and volleyball courts round out the options for families who want variety.