Barton Natural Springs Pool

Austin, Texas is one of my top favorite cities in Texas, simply because there are so many places for weekend escapes where you can enjoy nature even though in the center of the city, as the case is with Barton Springs Pool.
What a great place to have some great fun with family and friends in a relatively inexpensive way, since the entrance fee is minimal.

But the good news is that Barton Springs Pool is divided into a 'pay' and 'free' area. So depends on you whether you want to pay or not. But, if you have young kids or you are not that great swimmer, then you should prefer the 'pay' area where there are lifeguards. I have read many reviews that the water is freezing, well i will disagree on this characterization. I rather think that it is cool and refreshing, especially when the temperatures in the city during the summer may reach or even exceed 40C!!!!!

Another great thing about this place is that there is a separate place for your dog to play with the water. Overall a great place to relax, chill out and have great time without being disturbed by the crowds, since the place is huge !! Thank you Austin, Texas for yet one more amazing family place !!!

Fantastic experience here! Yes, 68 degrees is cool water but this is a great, unique place to escape Austin summer heat. Nice grassy areas to laze around, too.

Yes very cold!!! Almost numbing feeling so I would recommend going when it's extremely hot outside! No food or drinks allowed either so no picnics.

I came here late October. The weather was still gorgeous, although the pool was closed the day I wandered by, but my pup and I were still able to enjoy the trail and surrounding creek area. Definitely one of the things that made me fall in love with Austin!

Very cool, only accepts cash, little train for kiddos run through the park.

This place is the best and a must see....or swim!

Barton Springs Pool is a couple miles away from Deep Eddy Pool and it's this a massive spring-fed pool. Great place to spend a hot afternoon.

It was damn cold! ...But I loved it.
The water is fresh and freezing but such a must do when in Austin!

Beautiful area. Too cold to swim but it was nice sitting on the grassy area with the breeze blowing. Very peaceful and relaxing.

Crowded but amazing views of the city. Park had pretty trails and the river was really beautiful. It was a nice chance to get off of the city streets and wander through a lush green space. Great way to cool off on a hot summer day and get in a pleasant walk before the serious eating and drinking began again.