I am one of a thousand reviews for Barton Springs. I don't think I'll have a new perspective, but I can share mine. It's a hot summer weekday in Austin, and my friends and I hit up the Springs to cool off. We came a little after lunchtime, and while it was busy at the pool, it wasn't TOO bad as it probably is on a weekend. We set up base at a spot near a tree to collect a little shade and lathered up in sunscreen. The pool has strict rules of no food and drinks other than water, but it keeps the place clean and risk free, which is actually appreciated by me. The pool stays between 68°-70°, which is a temperature not too cold on impact, but still super relaxing to hang in. The pool is massive with plenty of people hanging around in all corners. It's a great spot in summer but definitely not a hidden gem. It's an extremely well-known gem. I'm curious how populous it is during peak times, but that random Wednesday afternoon was perfect. RIYL: The biggest pools read more

This was my favorite experience on my trip to Austin. You have to pay to get in. It's a little cheaper if you're an Austin resident but overall not expensive for the experience it provides. Everything about the area is gorgeous and unique. I found the whole place very clean and well staffed with multiple life guards on duty and people of all ages. Note that there is absolutely no food or drink allowed inside. I think that policy, along with the requirement to pay, is what keeps the area so clean. The water is absolutely freezing and can't be regulated as it's not a pool, but man does it feel nice on a hot Austin day. Must do in Austin. read more

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Barton Springs Pool I heard from movies, hippie vibes and just general word of mouth content over the years in regards to what is in the Austin area. So I wanted to make sure we made a stop here while we were in Austin as it seemed essential for having a good city experience here. Barton Springs is open every day but Thursdays so plan accordingly for that. I am told it's a day where they clean the pool. It took a little bit of navigating to get to the pool as we had to plan to come here on a hot day as opposed to a rainy day which we were encountering here on our trip but it worked out fine. We landed on a warm day and got pool time. And Barton Springs is perfect to come to on a hot day. The temperature is between 68-70 degrees which makes it great swimming all year round here. The bottom of the pool has plant life and it's not all concrete and polished at the bottom so be aware of that... it's definitely has a natural look. There are also signs not to touch the rocks at the bottom as it is the home to some rare amphibians I believe. But aside from that as long as you follow the signs you're good. The water is extremely refreshing and invigorating and even after leaving the pool and you are on your way you still feel for a while thise sensations which added more to the impressive experience we had here. Parking fees and entrance fees to the pool are reasonable. It's $5 if you are a resident and $9 if you aren't. I highly, highly recommend making a stop at Barton Springs if you are in Austin... it definitely helps complete the city experience here. read more

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As a tourist this was not what I was expecting. It was actually 10x better. This was a nice local spot I'm happy we were able to learn about and had time to visit. It's a pretty big park, offering several different landscapes and activities. Great for families and outings with friends. The city views were beautiful. The forest and springs had that cooling effect that made the hot sun bearable. The springs were cold but very refreshing once fully submerged. A little too cold for my water loving 2 yr old. He also didn't like the green algae but still enjoyed the experience. Warning: VERY SLIPPERY in the springs and uneven rocky trails in some areas. Have water shoes if you don't like to be barefoot. The bottom of the springs swimming section feels smooth; slippery with some uneven dips. We stayed on the approved 4ft or less side for my kid's life vest. Bring a float or rent a canoe to enjoy the deeper waters. Pro:There are several ADA ramps we could have used for the stroller. As 1st time visitors we took some risky chances trekking down rocky slopes and too many stairs that wasn't necessary. Find the ramps. Con: Multiple entrances and parking. We were almost defeated by the parking situation on a Saturday early afternoon (1pm). We drove around over an hour looking for a spot in the many parking lots closer to the swimming pool section. With so many entries and people barely leaving it was a constant flow of new cars swooping in forcing us into lot loops. So close to turning back, we kept following the water trail and figure there had to be another way to the water! Bingo we parked on the other side of swimming section and took the 12 min walk directly through the fields to the pool area. If you're like us you'll drive around the parking lots so much you'll learn the landscapes. Must pay for parking. We got a ticket after following the advice that there are no parking fees on the weekend. Don't listen just pay the hourly rate parking fees. Swimming Pool Fee: There is a minimum fee associated with entering the springs. Fees are tiered by age and residence. As non-residents we only paid $13 ($9 adult/$4 young kid). Veterans are free, no ticket, must show VA ID. Reasonable fees for the amenities, especially the life guards and bathrooms. Downloading the app is easier and faster than standing in line at the credit card kiosks. The teller windows are a little faster but, cash only, We were pleasantly excited to also take advantage of the playground and train ride. Super cute. 2 year old loved both. Highly recommended for visitors who like to explore, be in nature and community, and stay cool. read more

Barton Springs Pool - Beautiful city views - Swimming Pools Near Me - Austin, Texas

Had a great time with my two young kids (11, 13). The water was cold but once you got past the initial shock it was awesome. Lots of shaded and grassy area all around to sir and relax. They have a diving board and large enough shallow area where even the young ones can play. read more

Barton Springs Pool - Good view! - Swimming Pools Near Me - Austin, Texas

This was such a fun experience! If you're an Austin resident, you pay $5. The pool is huge and there is plenty of space for everyone to have a good time. It can get slippery, so be careful. It has a beautiful view of the city. The water is so cold, but it was perfect for such a hot day. While we were there, an emergency happened and the life guards were on top of it. I really like the fact that there are life guards on duty and that they are actually paying attention to keep everyone safe. read more

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Barton springs is a must visit for any local or visitor to Austin! $5 for residents & $9 for non residents. Parking on weekdays is easy, weekends I recommend carpooling or ubering. Only thing to note is : "Prohibited items include all food, glass, alcohol, and snacks to reduce litter and pests." Water is cool all year, refreshing in the spring & summer and it's overall just a great spot to be! read more

Barton Springs Pool - Barton springs pool - Swimming Pools Near Me - Austin, Texas

What an interesting experience in 2026...rules rules rules! I don't remember a lot of these limitations but I honestly think they're great: no speakers, only 16.9 fl oz water bottles, no gum or food, cash only except if you pay at the kiosk (still only $5). There was a man walking around politely policing everyone and it was really cool how he was doing it -- super friendly and respectful. I was there on a weekday and it was super crowded. The lifeguards were absolutely on top of their duties and that was super reassuring. They're doing everything they can to preserve the culture and atmosphere and it is super obvious. The water is cold...enjoy! But after a 15 minute doggy paddle or float, you'll feel the mystical healing properties of this majestical pool. I promise. My biggest headache was the kiosks and parking: the kiosks were having a hard time connecting to the network and two of the three actually shut down as well as parking being free but no postings or signage showing that it was. read more

Super fun place to hang out, especially on a hot Austin day. Once you get to the pool (which is a bit of a walk from the parking lot in the midday heat), you can cool off in the spring water and spend a very leisurely few hours poking around, swimming laps, jumping off the board, whatever. It's great to see everyone peacefully enjoying themselves and there are lots of life guards. All ages, from young families with kids, to teenagers, bikinis, and older folks, too. I thought the water was a great temp, at least on that hot 90-something degree day. This was a Tuesday later in the afternoon and there were a lot of bathers but it didn't feel crowded. There was a lot of construction and temporary fencing, I hope it looks great when they're done. $5 for Austinites, $9 for out-of-towners. I'm not sure but there looked like another way to access the pool from the other side to the main entrance, not sure if there's a pay gate on that side, too. read more

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This place was absolutely beautiful. It was $10 for people who aren't from Austin. The kiosks don't work well so it is best to bring cash with you to pay with the cashier The water is FREEZING but once you commit it really isn't that bad. You can't bring food or bevs into this area. But you are allowed to get a stamp to allow you to reentered which was awesome. Would definitely recommend everyone to go The view of the city is also stunning! read more

Barton Springs Pool - Swimming Pools Near Me - Austin, Texas

On a sunny day, there's nothing better than arriving at Barton Springs early, before the crowds roll in. We got there around 9:30 AM. There was still parking, and it wasn't too crowded down at the pool. The parkatx app didn't work for any of the three parties trying to pay to park when we arrived, and the meter only seems to take coins or credit cards. The water in the pool was crisp, refreshing, and absolutely energizing, and the peaceful atmosphere makes it easy to see why this spot is so beloved in Austin. Lifeguards are plentiful, which adds a strong sense of safety, though sometimes their guidance comes across more as a list of "don'ts" than clear direction. Still, the beauty of the pool with the city in the background, the turtles sunning themselves, and the variety of people enjoying the day make Barton Springs a must-do for locals and visitors alike (but definitely hit it up before 11:30 AM). As we were packing up around 11 AM, it was getting more and more crowded. Be wary of the focused swimmers who are not watching where they are going. read more

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The natural spring pool is enclosed right next to the Austin Lake/River. There are several parking lots that are free during the week, but costs on the weekends and holidays. The fee for the spring is $5 for locals, and $9 for out of towners. There are kiosks where you can pay by card, and the booth where they take cash. Just follow the dirt path right by the river til it ends at the enclosed pool area. Along the way you'll come across several venders with drinks, fruit, chips, popsicles, and esquite. Just keep in mind that no food is allowed in the enclosed pool. And they have a diving board with life guards, along with many rules. I had read that the water was 70 degrees all year round, but right now in April, it felt 65. Once you get in though, it feels good. read more

Barton Springs Pool - Swimming Pools Near Me - Austin, Texas

Heaven in Austin! Best spring fed pool - huge length across and beautiful place to snorkel. Don't bring food - only water, towels, sunscreen, etc. Parking can be intense so have a plan to arrive early before noon to avoid issues Restrooms for the pool and $5 entry for locals and $10 for out of town. Can bring floats too on one side of the pool read more

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Barton Springs Pool is truly a treasure in the Austin area--an iconic spot that feels almost unreal considering how close it is to the city. Seriously, what other city lets you swim in beautiful, clear spring-fed water just minutes from downtown? Austin really gets it right. I haven't had the chance to swim here yet, but it's high on my checklist. On this visit, the weather was absolutely perfect for a dip, but since it was a spontaneous stop, I didn't bring my swimsuit--rookie mistake. Still, just being there, watching people enjoy the water, and soaking in the scenery made it worthwhile. Another thing on my to-do list is riding the little train nearby, which looks like a fun and nostalgic way to explore the area. My plan for next time is simple: come prepared, swim in the refreshing spring, ride the train, and fully enjoy everything this spot has to offer. If you're anywhere near this area, don't miss it. Come enjoy this Austin gem. Cheers read more

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An absolute must visit in Austin especially to beat the heat. Everyone here kept telling me how cold the water is but I guess as a Canadian it really wasn't that bad at all. I found it refreshing given the oppressive heat in Austin in summer. $9 entrance fee for nonresidents which you pay at the entrance. The vibe here is super chill. While the sides of the pool are concrete and is built to look like a pool, the bottom is rocky and a little weedy but the spring water is crystal clear. I was diving in and swimming across the pool instead of just dipping and lounging like most of the locals were and everyone was staring. I have no idea why they don't have lanes for swimmers. Lots of locals hanging out and enjoying the space. If I was in Austin longer, I'd be here everyday. Bring a large blanket or towel, swimming shoes, a cover-all, some great reading material and some tunes and you're set for the day or evening. read more

Barton Springs Pool - Swimming at Barton Springs with Austin's skyline in the background. - Swimming Pools Near Me - Austin, Texas

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A fantastic and unique place to hang out when the weather is warm, I loved visiting Barton Springs Pool! We had to circle the different lots before we were able to find parking on a Friday around 2pm. Starting in mid-March, the season officially kicks off and they do charge for entry, and it's a little cheaper for residents of Texas than non-residents. No outside food or beverages are allowed, and if you see someone with a cooler they are going next to the official pool, where they also allow the dogs to play in the water. I recommend downloading the ATXswims app in advance of your visit, as this can help speed up the check in process. You can purchase your day pass (or season pass) directly in the app, and then at the gate they scan your QR code for entry. They have a diving board and the water varies in depths. When we went, the official pool house was still under construction (expected to be completed soon) so the other restrooms and changing areas were trailers. I recommend bringing a thick towel to lay on, as well as sunscreen, goggles, and water shoes. The ground in the pool can be slippery, and I definitely recommend water shoes with grip so that you don't slip. While the water is cold (around 68-72* F) it feels nice on a hot day, and your body temperature quickly adapts. read more

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I've only been to Barton Springs Pool once, and was I impressed? Absolutely not. If you're needing somewhere to cool down, Barton Springs Pool stays at a solid 65F year round and is fed from underground springs. Since the springs is natural, Barton Springs is home to the endangered Barton Springs Salamander & provides a natural habitat for these endangered species. It's slimy and to me, absolutely freaky. Is it seaweed? Is it a salamander? No one knows. If slime creeps you out, pass on this. But, if you're curious, I highly recommend bringing swimming shoes and making that decision for yourself. The pool is surrounded by miles of grass and people lounging around in the sun. It usually gets pretty packed... not exactly my idea of relaxation. read more

We came here with a group of 10 some of us from California Utah and Colorado to celebrate a friends birthday this past weekend and it had to be my favorite part of the event. It was very clean, nice views, a diving board. We found it on tik tok and it didn't disappoint! We came on their anniversary date so it was free for everyone to enter. Bring a blanket or towel to sit in the shaded grass area. If you have a floatie you must stay in a designated section. Perfect summer activity. read more

Barton Springs Pool - Swimming Pools Near Me - Austin, Texas

My first time coming the Barton Springs in Austin! I'm sure during the summer when school is not in session that this is a very busy place. We came in a Tuesday and it still had a good amount of people there. Parking in the lot during the week was free. They have walk up stations that you can buy your pass right in front of the gate. Find a decent spot on the grass or on the hill. You can bring your towels, blankets, floaters and lawn chairs. No loud music or outside food/drinks besides bottled water. The water at the end of September was cold! I definitely recommend going at the height of the day to catch as much of the sun to warm you up as you can. We didn't make it there until after 4pm and the sun was already low. I couldn't stay in for too long without the sun being on me. You know the water is cold when you get out of it and the air is warmer than the water. It still was a good experience. There are plenty of life guards for you to safely swim. There is a post like every 5ft spanning the entire length of the pool. There is also a diving board. FYI: currently their building with the locker rooms and showers are under renovation. They did provide the trailer potty's with toilets and showers that you can use. read more

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It's cold yes, but it feels soo good. You are not allowed food or drink anywhere along the pool other than bottled water. The parking lots were under construction when we were there in Oct so it was a bit of a walk to the pool. We put our stuff down and jumped in. The bottom is mossy and a little slippery but not as bad as I had thought from reading the reviews. It gets to 18' on the far end by the diving board. We were in around 4-5' and it was perfect. This was prob the best part of our Austin trip. Do know that you leave your stuff out on the grass in the open and if you really wanna enjoy yourself in the pool I would bring as little as possible and not be like me who was constantly looking over my shoulder to make sure nobody was stealing my stuff . read more

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I'm so glad my friends from Texas showed me around and said that Barton Springs pool was the place to be for a place to go to in Texas! The water was cool and clear! I was AMAZED to see the seaweed, algae and the Austin skyline in the area! I definitely would recommend this to anyone visiting Austin! TIP: Currently, they are redoing the springs installation and construction is involved right now! In addition, there IS a REENTRY stamp if you need to go out and grab something from the car so remember to STAMP if needed! PARKING was free and able as well as there are restrooms outside before entering the pool! read more

Barton Springs Pool - Swimming Pools Near Me - Austin, Texas

Truly obsessed with Barton Springs. I've honestly never seen anything quite like this before. It's a community "pool" but it's such an inviting spot that people of all ages are at. It costs $5 to enter and there's grassy hills you can lay out on and then you just hop in the water whenever you feel like it. Bring your own towels, sunblock, and floats if you have them. We didn't have a float this time around but looking at the folks floating in the water made us want our own. Next time! Barton Springs is monitored very well by the lifeguards (they catch everything!) so you know you're safe here. We could've spent the entire day relaxing/tanning/hopping in the water. Such a gem in Austin. I wish Boston had something like this!! read more

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The spring pool is a favorite of the local. You just need to paid a small fee and you can swim in the natural spring water pool. This pool located at the west side of Austin. The water came from Barton Creek. It is located within the Zilker Metropolitan Park. The pool is part of the creek dam form the pool. This natural pool has life guard. You can travel along creek trail to enjoy the nature. Down stream of the dam is welcome many dog play in the water. Great for pet water activities. Parking is not free. A small fee is needed. But the park is very nice. Great place to jog. read more

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This isn't your normal every day pool once you jump into here it's literally freezing ahh cold . You will be shivering like ya stepped into a really really cold ice bath without the ice . Basically ya need to be completely still where your body numbs itself that you forget your in cold water . Now with that being said there's is a huge line to get tickets for this cold spring and while waiting in line the hot Texas summer heat will make you sweat . That ya Might wanna double ask yourself is it worth it to be freezing my butt off .? Now there is like a big hill that you can put a towel on and chill out if the water isn't for you . Also there are lifeguards but when you have a pubic cold spring things have gotten dangerous and wild especially when it comes to barely having any clothes on . Overall it's cold to go see but not worth the frost bite . read more

Parking here can be a B. I circled around for 10 minutes looking for a spot. When I finally found a spot, I asked the locals how they paid for parking. They said they didn't. So idk if parking is enforced because I didn't see a machine anywhere. $5 to enter. Pretty cool place. Would recommend checking out and spending some time with your friends here read more

Barton Springs Pool - Swimming Pools Near Me - Austin, Texas

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The water was refreshing and perfect for cooling off. The pool was clean and well maintained, and the surrounding area was relaxing. It was a great spot to spend time outdoors. read more

We didn't even go in but we sat there and watched for at least 45 minutes with the cool air from the springs hitting us. We watched all the kids, teens and some young adults dive into the springs and it was just so fun! Highly recommend taking a visit. Getting a paleta or snack from the vendors outside even if you don't go in. Looks like an amazing spot just to lay out and tan and it just feels cooler being next to the springs. read more

Barton Springs is such a vibe. For less than the cost of a cheeseburger, you can spend an entire afternoon swimming in a natural pool fed by an underground spring. My 1970's era community pool could NEVER. We went in April and while the weather was a bit cool, our group of girls had so much fun people-watching, sunning, and checking out all of the different pool areas. The water was delicious and refreshing and it felt so nice to be able to commune with so many different people at this incredible public park. Affordable, healing, and just plain beautiful, I recommend Barton Springs to anyone visiting the Austin area. read more

Ah!!! I really love this swimming spot! My friends and I came on a Saturday around 12 pm. There was lots of parking as many people were leaving. We parked in the dirt lot and paid for parking at the kiosk. I think it was $13 until midnight. Then we followed the crowd down the path to a sign that pointed left for pool tickets. The kiosk to purchase with your card is super, super slow, especially when you try to buy for 5 people. Some kiosks only work if they claim you as "Austin residents." I tried for about 15 minutes using 3 different kiosks because I had no cash. Please just bring cash and pay at the window instead. Also, you cannot bring any type of cooler inside. It's a protected area, and the lifeguards will do anything to prevent you from bringing outside food. I saw a girl drinking her squeezable applesauce and got scolded. Up the hill outside the entrance and gated area, I saw a picnic area and people with coolers. You just can't bring them within the gates. Also, this guy was swimming and pulling up the endangered plants. Don't be that guy, it's a $10k fine, and he got kicked out of the pool. Barton Springs is a safe swimming area. There are three sections. The first pool looks shallow and had kids. The second area is where I stayed and had 8 feet of water and the diving board. The third area is gated and was the river area and dog beach. That looks like where all the free people go. Tips: Wear swim shoes. I slipped on the hill with no patch of grass. It's slimy at the bottom of the pool and on the stairs, which is the worst feeling for me. Wear a hat in the water. Put on lots of sunscreen. Don't smuggle food or alcohol. Don't bring a cooler because you're gonna have to walk it all the way back to your car. Bring a backpack with towels and lots of water. Also, you can bring lawn chairs, and there's a shower inside these portable trailers. My guy friends said the restrooms were nasty. read more

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I come here always. My friend broke her finger once being rowdy, but there were very nice ducks and squirrels to comfort her after. The pool is super well maintained and the lifeguards look like they know what theyre doing. Open super early which I love! Great parking! Super beautiful! Amazing water temperature! Very affordable! Great location! Awesome trees and grass! changing rooms and showers have good flowers and vibes! Easy to traverse! Good depth! Slimiest floor! Very fun diving board. Watch out for duck poop. Dont bother the endagered species protection thing. Dont bring food. Respect the space read more

Barton Springs Pool - ducks at barton springs - Swimming Pools Near Me - Austin, Texas

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- cold - squishy and slippery moss - lively but peaceful - refreshing in this TX heat read more

Barton Springs Pool - Swimming Pools Near Me - Austin, Texas

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Wonderful cold deep water large pool, somewhat strict lifeguards. And lots of room to spread out.

Awesome public swimming pool with water sourced from natural springs. Huge area with lifeguards and a diving board. Plenty of grassy space on both sides of the pool for lounging. No alcohol permitted. Definitely recommend stopping by for a dip on a hot day. Access was free of charge when I went but I think you need to buy tickets normally. read more

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This is one of my favorite spots in all of Texas. That's saying something considering how big Texas is. While both sides of Barton springs pool have their benefits and are absolutely gorgeous, my personal favorite is the free side. You can bring food, drinks, speakers, coolers, and your pets! I love sitting in the water with something to drink and a book while listening to all the life around me. Come for yourself and decide which side of Barton springs you like most! #allofbartonspringsmatter read more

What a cool place! Visited on a very hot Mid-September weekend afternoon and loved cooling off in the chilly spring fed water. Because it was so hot it was pretty busy. There was still plenty of room for us to put down towels and take a dip. This is Austin, (and I'm not complaining) but there was one girl happily walking around the deck topless. I was a bit surprised! Nobody seemed to care however. (Stay weird Austin?!) The temperature outside was above 100 degrees and I was told the water was 67. Big shock getting in, but it was so nice to feel cool when it was this hot. Maybe this is because it was late in the season, but most of the rocks which people hung out and stood on, where covered with really slippery weeds. It is very dangerous! I slipped and fell, but luckily didn't get hurt. The steps that we used to walk in and out with out using the slippery rocks, were really hard to walk on too. The stones in the steps hurt your feet! Kind of like walking on gravel. This "pool" is a pretty awesome thing that Austin offers. As a visitor, I am so glad we read about it. Great local flavor to check out. $9 for non-Austin, $5 for locals. There is a "free" area too, but it's full of dogs which wasn't very appealing. read more

Barton Springs Pool - Mid-Sept 2023 Temp 102 degrees. Water. 67! - Swimming Pools Near Me - Austin, Texas

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Weird... I KNOW I've left a review before. Literally here 1-2 times a year. It's an amazing community pool with vegetation and water life. Great place to relax. read more

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3.5 Stars - Come for the Chaos, Stay for the Jell-O Shots The free side of Barton Springs is definitely an experience. Picture this: total sausage fest, slimy rocks that will have you questioning your life choices, and enough dogs to open a kennel. If you're brave enough to wade in, you'll definitely want to scrub the bacteria off afterward. That said, if you're into people-watching (or just want to see some random topless sunbathers), this is absolutely your spot. Bonus points to the genius selling Jell-O shots off a paddleboard -- 10/10 entrepreneurial spirit. Biggest perk? You can actually party over here, unlike the paid side where "fun" goes to die. Just make sure you pay for parking, because they ticket like it's their full-time job. Perfect place if you're looking for a messy, memorable afternoon! read more

Gorgeous and refreshing! Reasonably priced. Used the ATXswims app to purchase day pass. Worked well! Highly suggest arriving early...gets crowded after noon-ish. The view of Austin is iconic. read more

Barton Springs Pool - Swimming Pools Near Me - Austin, Texas

Nice reprieve - water is refreshing! This place exceeded my expectations. I paid $5 to enter. I was so pleased since I brought swim gear! **always bring a swim suit when you travel! read more

Barton Springs Pool - Barton Springs/ Austin - Swimming Pools Near Me - Austin, Texas

103 F outside and 68F 12,700,000 gallon per day spring fed fresco goodness can't be beat in Austin in July. Bring your beach chair, towel, but no outside beverages or coolers. Parking is challenging on best days. $5 per day for adults from Austin and $9 from visitors from other parts of Texas and beyond. The water stays ~ 68F all year so great year round swimming hole. read more

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