A beloved Austin institution—a 1,000-foot natural spring-fed swimming pool set in Zilker Park. The springs maintain a refreshing 68°F year-round, making it a perfect escape from Texas summer heat.
Barton Springs Pool is a spring-fed public swimming pool in Zilker Park, Austin, Texas, fed by Barton Springs—a natural spring system that has provided water to the region for thousands of years. The pool measures 900 feet long and 125 feet wide, making it one of the largest natural swimming areas in any major American city. Water temperature holds steady at 68–70°F throughout the year, making the pool popular for cold-weather lap swimmers and a legendary escape during the fierce Austin summer.
The springs draw an average of 27 million gallons of water per day from the Edwards Aquifer, flowing through the pool and into Barton Creek. The pool bottom is natural limestone and spring-fed sand, and the water is exceptionally clear. The upstream end, near the dam, is the deepest section at approximately 9 feet, with a diving board that has been a beloved Austin institution since the 1940s. The downstream end is shallower and contains a section maintained for the Barton Springs Salamander—a small, translucent aquatic salamander found only in Austin's spring system and listed as a protected species.
Zilker Park surrounds the pool with broad lawns, mature pecan and cypress trees, and picnic areas that extend the experience beyond the water. The Barton Creek Greenbelt hiking and swimming trail connects from the park's edge, offering additional natural swimming holes for those who prefer wilder settings.
Admission is charged between 8 AM and 9 PM; entry is free before 8 AM and after 9 PM for swimmers willing to enter during those transitional hours. The pool closes on Thursday evenings for weekly cleaning. Weekend afternoons in June through August see the highest crowds, with occasional wait times at the entrance gate.
Good to know
- Hours
- 5:00 AM - 10:00 PM (pool closes Thursdays for cleaning)
- Best time
- weekday mornings
- Best for
- swimmers, locals experience, families, hot weather relief
Location
2101 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78746
30.2622, -97.7706 View on map
Highlights
- Natural 900-foot spring-fed limestone pool with constant 68–70°F water temperature year-round
- Free entry before 8 AM and after 9 PM—popular with local early-morning and evening lap swimmers
- Diving board at the deep upstream end, an Austin institution in continuous use since the 1940s
- Home to the Barton Springs Salamander—an endangered species found nowhere else in the world
- Set within Zilker Park's lawns and cypress groves, ideal for picnicking before and after swimming
Tips for visiting
- Free entry before 8 AM and after 9 PM
- Dive board area is very popular with locals
- Salamander Zone is shallow for kids
When to visit
Weekday mornings from 5–8 AM attract regular lap swimmers in a quiet setting and entry is free. Summer afternoons draw the largest crowds; arriving before 11 AM or after 5 PM significantly reduces congestion. Early spring is especially enjoyable when air temperatures are mild and summer crowds have not yet arrived.
Accessibility
The pool has accessible entry points including a zero-entry slope into the water on the north bank. Accessible restrooms and changing facilities are on-site. The paved paths around the pool perimeter are wheelchair accessible. The natural limestone pool bottom may be uneven in areas.
Frequently asked questions
Is Barton Springs Pool open year-round?
Yes, though hours vary and the pool closes Thursday evenings for cleaning. Winter swimming is popular among locals despite cooler air temperatures, as the 68°F water remains constant. Current hours are listed on the City of Austin parks website.
How much does it cost to swim at Barton Springs Pool?
Admission for adults is $5–9 depending on season. Children under 12 pay $2–5. Entry is free before 8 AM and after 9 PM daily when the pool is open. Austin residents may purchase annual passes for frequent use.
Is Barton Springs Pool suitable for children?
Yes. The shallower downstream end suits younger swimmers well. The pool has lifeguards on duty during staffed hours. The diving board and deeper upstream section require swimming competence. Surrounding Zilker Park adds playground and picnic options for families.