Hamilton Pool Preserve
Rating
Family of 4
$30 ($15 vehicle entry + $8/person over age 12; children 12 and under free; 2 adults x $8 = $16 + $15 vehicle = $31)
Duration
2-4 hours
Best Ages
Best for ages 5-17
About
Hamilton Pool Preserve is a stunning natural swimming hole located 30 minutes west of Austin in the Texas Hill Country. Created thousands of years ago when the dome of an underground river collapsed, the pool sits beneath a massive limestone overhang with a 50-foot waterfall cascading over the edge.
Getting to the pool requires a 0.25-mile hike down a steep, rocky trail from the parking area. The trail is not stroller-accessible. The descent takes about 15-20 minutes at a family pace; the climb back up takes longer and is more strenuous.
When swimming is open, the pool is a unique experience. The water is cool and clear, the natural limestone bottom requires water shoes, and the overhanging rock shelf creates a dramatic atmosphere. There is no lifeguard, so parents must supervise closely.
Reservations are mandatory and sell out well in advance during summer months. Book at parks.traviscountytx.gov as soon as you know your travel dates. The preserve charges $15 per vehicle plus $8 per person over age 12. Children 12 and under are free. There are no facilities beyond basic restrooms at the parking area.
Age Suitability
Parent Logistics
Stroller-Friendly
No
Nursing / Changing
Not Available
Kid Meals
Not Available
Setting
Outdoor
Rainy Day
Not ideal
Plan Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings are least crowded. RESERVATION REQUIRED -- book online at least 2-3 weeks in advance for summer dates. Spring (March-May) has the best waterfall flow. Swimming is sometimes closed due to bacteria levels after heavy rain.
Wait Times
No wait once you have a reservation. The 0.25-mile trail to the pool takes 15-20 minutes downhill. Without a reservation, you cannot enter.
Nearby Food
Nothing at the preserve or nearby. Pack everything. Dripping Springs (15 min drive back) has Salt Lick BBQ (worth the detour), Mazama Coffee, and restaurants along US-290.
Why Kids Love It
Hamilton Pool is a collapsed underground river that created a natural swimming hole beneath a 50-foot waterfall and a massive limestone overhang. It looks like something from a movie. Kids who have only swum in pools and oceans are stunned by this place.
The hike down to the pool is a short (0.25 mile) but steep trail through Hill Country terrain. When the trail opens up to reveal the grotto and pool, the reaction is universally amazing. Swimming in the pool feels like swimming in a hidden world.
Even when swimming is closed (which happens periodically due to bacterial levels after rain), the preserve is worth the trip for the scenery alone.
Pro Tips from Parents
- RESERVATION REQUIRED -- book at parks.traviscountytx.gov at least 2-3 weeks ahead for summer dates
- Check the swimming status before driving 30 minutes -- the pool closes to swimming periodically after heavy rain
- The trail down is steep and rocky -- not suitable for strollers; use a baby carrier for little ones
- Bring water shoes -- the pool bottom is rocky and the trail has uneven terrain
- Pack all food and water -- there are no vendors, restaurants, or stores within 10 miles of the preserve
What to Bring
- water shoes
- swimsuit and towel
- sunscreen
- plenty of water
- packed lunch and snacks
- hiking shoes for the trail
- camera
Cost Info
Estimated Cost (Family of 4)
$30 ($15 vehicle entry + $8/person over age 12; children 12 and under free; 2 adults x $8 = $16 + $15 vehicle = $31)
Tips to Save
- Kids 12 and under are free.
- Book reservations early.
- Bring everything you need (food, water) since there is nothing to buy at the preserve.
Hours & Contact
Hours
- Friday
- 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM
- Monday
- 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM
- Sunday
- 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM
- Tuesday
- 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM
- Saturday
- 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM
- Thursday
- 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM
- Wednesday
- 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM
