Next on our list of favorite swimming holes in and around Austin, we’re taking the short drive to Krause Springs in Spicewood, Texas. This park not only features natural springs, but pools, a waterfall, butterfly house, and more!
Here’s absolutely everything you need to know about swimming at Krause Springs!
Location and Hours:
Krause Springs is located in the Hill Country of Texas, at 424 Krause Springs, in Spicewood, Texas. The 45-minute drive from Austin is gorgeous, as you’re driving through the beautiful, rolling hills of Texas Hill Country. The springs are open everyday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. This natural spring does not require or accept reservations for swimming, but the park does get to capacity quickly, especially on the weekends. If you’re concerned about availability, call their office at 401-236-7554 for an update on capacity.
Admission Cost:
Krause Springs is $10 for adults 12 years and older, $6 for children four to 11, and kids under the age of four are free! The park also has campsites available for both tents and RVs. Pricing ranges from $10 to $15 for camping. All payments are cash only.
History:
Krause Springs has been privately owned by the Krause Family for over 50 years. The springs is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places meaning the park is on the United States federal governments official list of sites deemed worthy for their historical significance! Because the property is privately owned, the Krause Family relies on all guests being very respectful of the land and water.
Size:
Krause Springs is a 115-acre property that has been around since 1955. There are 32 springs on the property to explore and swim in, with several manmade pools and one natural pool that flows into Lake Travis. Additionally, there’s a beautiful butterfly garden and grotto as well as plenty of space to camp overnight.
Water Temperature:
The two springs feed the giant swimming holes at a rate of 70 gallons per minute! So rest assure that this water is always flowing. With an average temperature of about 68 degrees, the water is perfect for those hot Texas summer days.
Parking and Amenities:
Krause Springs has one large, main parking lot, directly off the pool area. Once that parking lot is full, the park is one in, one out. There are three restroom facilities scattered around the park, with an area for BBQ-ing near the pool area. Here’s a handy map of the springs.
Kid-Friendly:
Krause Springs is very kid-friendly! There are plenty of picnic tables around the park for families to sit and take a break from swimming, as well as shaded spots to relax. With the pools and springs being all different depths, this is a great spot to bring kiddos of varying ages. Please keep in mind there are no lifeguards on duty. There’s also a rope swing, waterfall, and hiking to explore. Something for every member of the family!
Prohibited Items:
Here is the list of prohibited items at Krause Springs: no pets, glass containers, jumping from bluffs, or smoking.
Pro Tips:
Before taking a dip in one of the springs or pools, we recommend stopping by the butterfly garden and grotto. Because the park is a little more spread out, we suggest limiting what you bring into the pool since you’ll want to go from spot to spot throughout the day. Definitely wear water shoes with a grip on the bottom – the staircase leading down to the pool area can be slippery. Lastly, weekdays are the best day to visit Krause Springs! We suggest either bringing a packed lunch and using one of their grills, or grabbing some BBQ from Opie’s on your way there.
Check out all of the swimming holes in the area here.
