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Barton Springs Municipal Pool
2131 William Barton Dr, Austin, TX 78746, United States
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Fl
Review №1

This was my 1st time getting in a natural spring pool. I was TOO COLD for me! It was beautiful and a nice experience but I just couldnt bring myself to fully submerge myself in the water.Its extremely spacious with enough room at the time to social distance while hanging out on the grass. The kids enjoyed it and my son swam. Nice family outing.

Sh
Review №2

Nice to know the water in the pool usually stays 68 temperature all year round, depending on rainfall. People were swimming the day we went it was 62 outside but 68 inside the pool..It was fun to watch a the People who had . They loved fetching balls from the river. Many pecan trees..beautiful nature

Va
Review №3

This is truly the gem of Austin! The water is between 67 - 68°! I’m writing this review, right after it was re-opened post Covid-19. Bring a towel to lay down comfortably on the grass. For right now you have to wear a mask when you walk around. But if you’re laying down you don’t have to. There’s plenty of lifeguards. Bring swimming goggles to see different types of aquatic creatures like shellfish and other fish while swimming and diving. The people there are very optimistic them health oriented. Be careful walking down on the hills because it’s easy to slip. Walk barefoot. You’ll have a great time!

Kr
Review №4

81° degrees in Austin Texas on November 25th, we visited Barton Springs Pool where they had lifeguards and sanitation in place. What a delightful afternoon!

Се
Review №5

A great place for a family vacation. Great view of downtown. Huge pool with lovely sunbathing lawn! A must-see!

Ha
Review №6

Important alertIts close on Monday , Wednesday and Friday due to covidI didnt get chance to walk by side of this natural pool

Ev
Review №7

Chilly waters on a hot day. Amazing natural spring pools. Life guards on duty. Because of COVID they check temperatures before entering now and masks are required. This was very appreciated.

Je
Review №8

Had an awesome time with friends here. It was a bit packed when we went but not to the point where you couldn’t swim around freely. I loved it. My friends loved it. Safe place for families. 5 stars for sure.

Ph
Review №9

Loved it. There were fish, turtles, and dogs in the water with you. I loved the natural spring part. The pool side was deeper than the spring water. We went canoeing which was only $18 for an hour. Good spot for pictures. There were lots of stairs to go down to get there, so be mindful if taking anyone who would require special assistance

Ri
Review №10

A true Austin gem, great for just hanging out. Make note there are no bathrooms on the south side with the hill. Where do people go? Parking is usually a mess so be prepared to pay and hike.

Ra
Review №11

Definitely the coolest public swimming “pool” I’ve ever been to. Such a clever idea and I love how natural the water feels. It’s very cold but you get used to it. There’s even a diving board. And an endangered salamander species living in it (that I did not find)! Dry off on the beautiful grassy hill that overlooks the river

Sq
Review №12

A refreshing visit on a hot Texas day. Our check in during Covid times was efficient and quick. They had a very good system going on, considering you had a reservation ahead of time. The water was super cold, perfect for an extremely hot day. Lifeguards could be a little nicer but I understand its a city job and people get annoying. Plenty of areas with shade if you get there early. Social distancing was very much possible with the reservation system which I appreciated. The kids had a blast swimming. Will definitely come here again.

Au
Review №13

Beautiful park with walking trail. We saw lots of kite flyers, family picnics, boaters, volleyball courts. Great place to bring the family. We visited the gardens and rented a canoe. You can spend the whole day here. Just bring a lunch because there is only ice cream.

N
Review №14

A wonderful spring to cool off in after walking along the park trails in the hot Texas heat.

Ch
Review №15

Cool and unique setting. Need better signage to direct people to the pool. Lots of construction going on.

Om
Review №16

We didnt go into Barton Springs since it was too cold, but it looked amazing! The water was so clean and calm especially at night time. Also the view was spectacular. I cant believe its free as well! If the weather was warmer, this looks like the place to be.

Mo
Review №17

My daughter and I are from out of state visiting relatives and decided to go exploring on our own. We looked up local swimming holes and happily discovered this place. It was a enjoyable le time. The water is quite cool but you can get used to it pretty quickly. It was pretty busy, but we went during the week so it wasnt wall to wall people. We had plenty of space to lay out a blanket on the grass and swim in the pool. Lots of people had floatation devices, wish we brought some.We were brought to this park a few years back and didnt realize this was here. It is quite literally a gem in the center of the city. We were sorry we needed to meet family for dinner because they stay open until 10pm in the summer. Since you cant bring in food, we had carrots and water, we did leave and headed down the street to find some amazing lunch on I believe Jesse street. There were several food trucks, eat outside tables. Just added to our adventure.If you are from out of town and need a half or whole day quick getaway this could be the ticket for you.

An
Review №18

Great place to cool off, literally: water temperature is 68-70°F. People are generally polite, parking is difficult if you must have a space close to the entrance.Barking Springs is just downstream and is where the pups play in the water. If youre a dog lover, its a must-see, in my opinion. ️

Br
Review №19

Thank you Alex! Great help very reasonable guy would definitely be coming back with any lock problems because of this guy. Works fast and hard

Jo
Review №20

The Gem of Austin! A magical beautiful place, this pool is half the reason I live austin

Pe
Review №21

Super-friendly staff! I love how the locker room is an outdoor courtyard! Parking is a bit rough but is worth the walk when the facility is following capacity standards. Great destination for the end of a hike!

Me
Review №22

What a fantastic place! We were visiting for a girls weekend in August and enjoyed Barton Springs so much. It was crowded, but there were plenty of places to sit and enjoy the sun. The water was freezing but refreshing. Can’t wait to come back!

Re
Review №23

I absolutely love this place. It was closed the last time I went due to the Covid19 virus which was disappointing but glad to see that they are doing their part to keep people safe. I cant wait for it to open back up. I totally recommend going to this place

Da
Review №24

Super cool spot. Wish there was something like this in my city.

S.
Review №25

Such a beautiful spring and so many people swimming in it. To be surrounded by such beautiful nature and enjoying yourself while sunbathing and watching the glistening water. This is the perfect place to have a picnic with family. It is also a perfect place to read a book, while watching people enjoy the spring/pool. A great break for the traditional pool or crowded beaches, just to sit here under the sun and enjoy of nature. Surrounded by the beautiful trees and the walking park, I would love to visit this park again. There is also a section for dogs on the far end of the spring.

La
Review №26

Once you get in and find somewhere to put your stuff, on the slanted hillside, its a beautiful place to swim and spend the day. Parking is not easy to find and a lot of the spaces say tow away zones so its hard to tell where you are actually allowed to park.

An
Review №27

This was fun, theres a free side and theres also a side where you pay. The side where you pay is more like a giant pool with natural water in it versus chlorinated pool water. The free side is on the other side of the fenced area and is more natural. You got to get there early to be able to get a parking space though.

Ad
Review №28

My favorite place to take family and just chill in water that feels so good and has a playground nearby for kiddos

To
Review №29

It’s cold. No way around it. But you MUST swim in these waters once in your life. Amazing views and great people.... it’s a Texas thing for sure.

Ke
Review №30

Great place to swim and lay out in the sun! Very reasonable entrance fee. Lifeguards on duty are very attentive and serious about their jobs. They will not hesitate to blow the whistle and reign in scofflaws.

Wi
Review №31

This place is amazing. I really loved the pool and its crystal waters.

Er
Review №32

Pretty awesome. Water was so cool like 70 degrees and refreshing for a hot day. Lifeguards were there to do some rescues. plenty of shaded ares under trees ..bring your towel or lounge chair

El
Review №33

Beautiful place for a picnic, fresh air, swimming, and photo opportunities for days.

Ad
Review №34

Beautiful spot to hangout and swim on a good weather day in Austin. Parking was free on Sunday.

Ch
Review №35

My happy place for over 30 years. I hope and pray it can reopen as numbers get better.

Ma
Review №36

Nice and cold water for hoy weather. Not crowded.

De
Review №37

I checked this place out in late January, it was sunny and cool out but people were still swimming in the cold water. The grounds are clean with great walking paths, you can easily walk a lap on foot around the pool.

Sa
Review №38

I love this place! I work downtown and love going after work to cool off from the heat of Texas. Explore the place! It has clearly been a place to go for decades. The bathrooms appear to have had their “heydays” many moons ago as it has an Art Deco feel to them. No dogs and no booze allowed

So
Review №39

Things to know before you go to Barton Springs Pool. The pool measures 3 acres, and the water is 68-70 degrees year round. It’s cold ! There is an entrance fee, if you are a non resident it’s $9/adult and $4/child (1-11), $5 (12-17). For Austinites the fee is $5/adults, $2/child (1-11), $3 (12-17). They do not allow food or alcohol. You can bring non-alcoholic drinks that are in a sealed plastic bottle. They do have food trucks outside of the pool area. Bring water shoes because the bottom of the pool is very rocky and don’t forget your sunblock! Enjoy and Happy Summer!

So
Review №40

Amazing, Cold, Cold water.... the hubby and son had lots of fun. We went Kayaking then swimming in Barton Spring pool. Im not a water baby, at all.... but the water was calm and the people there were respectful and didnt have to worry. I was actually able to relax after a short while and enjoy the scenery.

Kh
Review №41

The pool was closed when we were in Austin because of flooding but it is pretty big like in pictures. I liked how it is in its natural form. I can see why people love going here.

Je
Review №42

Can’t beat this place on a hot summer day in ATX. Always a great spot to get cool and meet cool people

Ed
Review №43

Great pulic pool you will abosolutely enjoy this place , have pletty of open grass, shade areas, and to promote for social distancing .

Ph
Review №44

Love this place. Its fun and welcoming. Great way to spend a warm day.

va
Review №45

I came while I was visiting Austin and this place is great. Nice cool water and they have place where to change your clothes and take a shower after you done being in the pool.my kids love coming here

C
Review №46

So cool! I love this place! Kinda annoying they wanted you to pay with cash though.

Ke
Review №47

We had a great time! Lots of space to lay out, huge pool, lifeguards on duty, and bathrooms. Water is a bit cold but refreshing on a hot day. If youre in town you should definitely visit.

Wi
Review №48

An Austin Treasure. One of the best pools youll ever find in the middle of a city, although that first dip is a shock to the senses. Go swim, lay out and leave all your cares behind in the Springs. Just watch out for the salamanders - they might nibble your toes.

Jo
Review №49

Easily my favorite place in Austin. Bring a towel, book, and some water and relax for hours. There is so much space that even at peak times, I’ve never felt crowded. Yes, you’re going to overhear some interesting conversations, yes someone might walk by you, yes someone might ask to borrow your sunscreen. For $5 I really can’t think of a better way to spend my Friday evening or Sunday morning. I’m here all the darn time and I love it.

Ra
Review №50

Gorgeous natural springs turned into a family friendly swim spot- perfect for cooling off on hot summer days. You can get in free before 8 am or after 9 pm too!

An
Review №51

I havnt been in several years. Used to live in south Austin as generations of family did. Wonderful place to visit and chill your body in 68 degree spring fed water. My grandfather and great uncle used to explore the creek area in the early 1900s when they were boys. They are buried in Phlugerville. Many beautiful memories there.

ca
Review №52

Super nice place to take a dip with the family. Nice cold water....

An
Review №53

Water is super friken cold no matter how hot the day! It’s all part of the experience tho! It’s a huge quadruple -Olympic size natural pool hole that’s got kind of an old skool vibe with their rules and regulations and family style atmosphere. Bad for wanting to party with friends and act a fool with some drinks. I don’t think alcohol is allowed or loud music. Again part of the experience as I found it to be super quiet calm and relaxing even with a couple hundred people there. Plenty huge and safe. Awesome experience for every Texan at least once! Neat place.

Sh
Review №54

Scenic wonderful water area, 68 degrees year round

Sh
Review №55

I visited Barton Springs on a Monday so parking was easy. Entrance for adults is $3 for locals and $8 for non locals but they didnt check IDs. The water was very refreshing and if you go to the end by the fence, youll see Barking Springs with all the dog owners and dogs having a blast in the water on their side. Throw a towel on the grass for some sun, dive on the diving board into the springs, float, or swim. I suggest water shoes bc the bottom can feel slimy. The water was perfect for me especially on a 100 degree day, but some may find it chilly.

Vi
Review №56

The best to dip into cold water after a long run in town lake trail in the hot weather

Ph
Review №57

This place is awesome. Water is very cold, but feels good on a hot day. The pool is fresh water and pretty deep in certain areas. Plenty of room even with a lot of people present. Very family oriented and a great place to cool off in the summer.

Tr
Review №58

I love going to the Barton springs pool! Water is always cold so its best going on a warm day but expect it to be crowded then.

Ca
Review №59

Lovely at night under a rising full moon.

Pa
Review №60

This place like amazing, the outside is basically just regular park BUT very pretty, then when you get into this swimming area, no foods, no alcohol are allowed and cash only (for ticket).. the water is super cold but extremely lovely. to goes from 3ft to like 7ft I think ?! if you love swimming, you will love this place.. not a lot of things to play with but still a lot of fun

Ma
Review №61

Barton Springs offers both a free and a paid spot to swim. The paid area $5 for residents and $9 for non residents, is a huge natural pool of water with lifeguards watching over. The water is calm and chilly as the pool is fed by spring water. The non paid area is more for the adventurous type. It has faster flowing waters and isnt supervised by lifeguards. Both sides are well worth the fun.

Hi
Review №62

I love it here. The natural rocks for the kids to explore and the deep end is amazing. Staff are fun and friendly. No coolers allowed inside and the food trucks are hit or miss so it you are bringing little ones (or big ones who get hangry) make sure to plan ahead.

Review №63

A must-go if you are visiting Austin during the summer months. This place is a very refreshing way to cool down from the Texas burning sun.Note that entry fees are $9 for adults which is not cheap, also you cannot bring food there and there are not many facilities (to buy food, water, or even bathrooms).

Ja
Review №64

Clean, crisp beautiful cold spring swimming pool. Loved it. Makes me want to move there.

Lo
Review №65

Beautiful location with 1 huge big pool. They just cean it so it is best time right now. its July 2019..

Ha
Review №66

Great spot but you really can only enjoy it during the winter months when its not crowded by the local UT hooligans or the California state jumpers. Ive mostly have had to go by the Colorado River part and take a dip or two while avoiding every dog in Austin with their camel Joe looking family. Some of the homeless people will offer to rub sun lotion on you free of charge which is cool.

Ja
Review №67

I need to remember to come back here to recharge. It feels good being out in nature its a thing we sometimes forget about. Trees line both sides of the pool with plenty of hills to find a spot to sit down at and read a book.

Mi
Review №68

Unique slice of Americana. No trip to Austin is complete without a swim at Barton Springs.

Jo
Review №69

This was a great place to bring the family and the family dog if you have one just be careful on the rocks , They are a bit slippery

An
Review №70

Great place to bring your best floaties & inner tubes for a lazy day of floating or swimming. Water was on the chilly side about 65° so I suggest bringing something to float on as the water may be too cold to swim in. I preferred to float on a floaty and the water was fine but would be too cold for me to just swim in for very long. There is a side on the opposite side of the gate pool area that didnt have lifeguards & where people went to swim with their dogs. Nice hilly grass areas with some shade to relax. Admission is $3 for residents & $8 for non-residents.

Da
Review №71

All you see is everyone having a great time, smiling, and enjoying every second with their loved ones. The workers are nice and polite and will take good csre of you; answering any questions that you may have and directing to the right place. The water might be a little nippy, but just jump in and get it over with.

Jo
Review №72

Go before noon on the weekends, or any time on weekdays. Otherwise, prepare to park and walk, then battle crowds seeking the 68F water. $5 to park in a nearby field in the front. No parking fee if you find a spot in the back. An additional $5 admission into the pool itself.Its one of those quintessential Austin things you do a few times a summer, but the parking amd crowds doesnt make it worth the trip to go regularly on weekends.

da
Review №73

Great swimming area with Beer for sale onsite

Ev
Review №74

Historic Austin spot. Crystal clear water and nice and cold for a hot day

Le
Review №75

This pool is awesome. Very cool water. The grandkids enjoyed it. There was lots if people there, but not crowded at. Its a big spring fed pool. Enjoyed every minute of it. We shall return!

Sa
Review №76

If you’re in Austin Barton Spring Pool is a MUST. If it had been warmer, we certainly would have taken a dip, and the awesome thing was that I overheard a few swimmers talking about how they had been their morning swim there for 20+ years! Such a cool spot with a great view of downtown.

Sh
Review №77

We are from out of town and the only reason I didn’t give this place a 5 is because the children running it was so rude and the process to get in was extremely unorganized!! The scenery and experience was wonderful tho!! Wonderful on a hot Texas day..

Ma
Review №78

Nice place for a swim, beautiful trails and playgrounds

Ki
Review №79

One of my favorite places to go on a hot Texas day! It can seem a bit busy at times but theres always room for one more towel the grassy hill. We always like to find a nice shade tree to put our bag under and set up our towels in the sun to lay out on after we get out of the chilly water. You can ease in on the limestone incline side, jump in on the mossy deep end or off the bouncy diving board. This year we were surprised to see that the concession stand was closed down and Im not sure if they plan on reopening it or not. They did have some food trucks out there but its not the same and theres no place to sit out there. Thats the only reason I took off a star since the staff and atmosphere were wonderful as always.

Ga
Review №80

Amazing place to go. Water is so refreshing on a hot day. Great place to relax with family and friends

Ta
Review №81

Love this place. The water is so cold and refreshing!!!! Beautiful nature spot smacked right in the middle of the city. Get there early to avoid parking issues.

En
Review №82

This place is a must when visiting Austin. There is a $5 entry fee & you can bring in folding chairs, floats, and sun tents. Water was clear, cold, and refreshing! Very well kept and maintained by staff and visitors alike. This place is special and a true Texas gem!

je
Review №83

Closed due to covid since 4th of July. Ill give it 5 stars when it reopens lol

Ma
Review №84

Barton Springs is the heart and soul of Austin and everything that is cool in this town emanates from here and expands outwards. Come here for the free night session starting at 9pm after one of our long, hot summer days for the best night swim you will ever have. Youll be glad you did.

Al
Review №85

Nice natural pool to go for a swim. The walk there is also pretty nice too

el
Review №86

It was beautiful and our kids had a blast seeing all of the fish swimming below.

Bl
Review №87

So beautiful and fun. COLDDD water (like reeeally cold...)

We
Review №88

Barton Springs is the most magical place in Austin. Nuff said.

Er
Review №89

Was at barking springs right next to it. It was my fav place to go when I lived in texas. The water is clean and perfect and while its close to the car park and in the middle of the city you feel like you are in your own little forest oasis.

Er
Review №90

Was too cold to go swimming but still wanted to see it. This is the coolest pool I have ever seen and it is much more massive than what I was prepared for.

Ca
Review №91

I LOVE Barton Springs!!!! Its an amazing place to take my young kids. The water is super refreshing and invigorating. Sometimes we take our dog and stay on the dog side, but truly nothing beats jumping into the depth of the full sized pool on a hot day!!

K
Review №92

Fun place to take the kids or your dog to get outdoors. Theres a free section and a paid (which is only $5 for residents, and $9 non residents). The free part is just river water and rocks. You can bring drinks , chairs and just chill. There are places to rent SUP, and kayaks. The paid section is like a big public swimming pool, only with natural water. They have grassy areas in that section to leave your stuff. The water was cold to start, but on a hot day it was refreshing. Definitely a place Ill frequent for outdoor fun!

La
Review №93

Long pool to do lap swimming or hanging out. Water is a good decent temperature and it seemed well maintained. Nice place to relax and enjoy a dip in fresh water spring.

Da
Review №94

This place is heaven sent. If we lived here, we would be at this place every weekend. Water is the perfect cool temperature to cool you off amidst the relentless hot summer heat. Plenty of shady trees to post up under during break time.

ya
Review №95

Awesome place to swim unfortunately they don’t allow backpacks in the pool so we had to move to the free side.

Ow
Review №96

Sick. From Denver and this place is awesome. Absolutely must be part of your Austin visit, cool water chill surrounding area, $5 entry what more can you ask for?

Vi
Review №97

Water cool and refreshing. Pool surface a little slippery. Very dated amenities.

Ky
Review №98

Just a fun place to swim and sight see

Re
Review №99

Beautiful place. Love the water. Kayak rentals available. Nice hiking trail. Naked yoga going right up front, what more could you ask for.

Wh
Review №100

So refreshing on a hot day!! Lots of people, but plenty of space for everyone. Water is very cold, be prepared! Bathrooms are also nice. Cant wait to go back. Would recommend swimming shoes for going in the water due to the rocky bottom.

Information
100 Photos
100 Comments
4.7 Rating
  • Address:2131 William Barton Dr, Austin, TX 78746, United States
  • Site:http://austintexas.gov/pools
  • Phone:+1 512-974-6300
Categories
  • Tourist attraction
  • Public swimming pool
  • Swimming pool
Working hours
  • Monday:5am–10pm
  • Tuesday:5–8am
  • Wednesday:5–8am
  • Thursday:5am–10pm
  • Friday:5am–10pm
  • Saturday:5am–10pm
  • Sunday:5–8am
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair-accessible car park:Yes
  • Wheelchair-accessible entrance:Yes
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