When it comes to pools, Austin has some great ones. Here are 10 of our faves, including many that are free to the community.
Best Community Pools in Austin
Big Stacy Pool
Big Stacy Pool is a charming community pool tucked into Travis Heights. It’s free and open year‑round — one of Austin’s only public pools that is both heated and no‑cost.
Barton Springs
Within Zilker Park lies one of the crown jewels of Austin: Barton Springs Pool. It is fed from underground springs with an average temperature of 68 to 70 degrees, ideal for year-round swimming. There are admission fees to use the official area of Barton Springs Pool. However, there are free “swim at your own risk” hours.
Dick Nichols Pool
Located in southwest Austin’s Dick Nichols District Park, Dick Nichols Pool is a popular community pool that is FREE! It features a 25-yard, 10-lane layout with depths ranging from one to nine feet.
Dottie Jordan Pool
Dottie Jordan Pool is a beloved neighborhood swimming spot in East Austin with depths ranging from three to over nine feet. There is also a separate wading pool for young children. Admission is free.
Bartholomew Pool
Bartholomew Pool is a vibrant FREE family-friendly aquatic center that reopened in 2014 following a major renovation. It features a four‑lane lap pool with a diving board over a 12-foot deep end, alongside two thoughtfully designed kid zones.
West Austin Neighborhood Pool
West Austin Neighborhood Pool offers a serene, family-friendly retreat amid city bustle. This free, outdoor pool is beloved by locals as the pool’s calm atmosphere and well-maintained facilities add up to a peaceful neighborhood gem.
Deep Eddy Pool
Deep Eddy Pool is one of the first pools to be established in the city. Once a swimming hole on the Colorado River, Deep Eddy is now a popular freshwater swimming pool. Admission fees apply.
Canyon Vista Pool
Canyon Vista Pool is a free, public pool facility located on Spicewood Springs. It offers a relaxed neighborhood vibe, with lap swim, recreational swim, diving board fun and free admission.
Brentwood Pool
Brentwood Pool is a free community pool nestled within Brentwood Park in North Central Austin. it features a main swimming area that’s about 3.5 to 4.7 feet deep, alongside a shallow circular kiddie pool with a fountain centerpiece. While it’s relatively small and shallow compared to other district pools, it includes a few lap lanes and designated lap swim times.
Balcones Pool
Tucked within Balcones District Park, Balcones Pool is located in North Austin and features a large main pool, shaded picnic areas and nearby trails and green space. Its proximity to scenic Walnut Creek makes Balcones Pool a hidden gem among Austin’s many public swimming spots.
