Daniel is a copywriter who has well and truly been bitten alive by the 'travel bug'. After ticking off several North American National Parks and exploring Europe by train, his sights are now set on South East Asia. Usually with at least one camera locked and loaded, you'll find Daniel wherever there are mountains, lakes or beaches.
Get ready to step into the breathtaking beauty of Texas with this exploration of the state’s most exquisite hot springs. From hidden gems tucked away in vast national parks to springs steeped in rich history and cultural heritage, these destinations offer far more than just a warm dip. So, let’s dive right in!
Barton Springs
Unwind at Barton Springs Pool in Zilker Park, Austin. Fed by underground springs, the pool offers year-round swimming at a stable 68-70 degrees. It has historically drawn a range of visitors, from state legislators to sunbathers and Robert Redford, who learned to swim here. Today, the pool remains popular, with visitor numbers nearing the 800,000 mark.
Chinati Hot Springs
Chinati Hot Springs, previously known as Ruidosa Hot Springs, opened in the 1930s and invites visitors to relax in its therapeutic waters, used for thousands of years by the local indigenous people. The springs aren’t just about relaxation; there are trails for hiking and mountain biking, and exploring the untouched beauty of the canyon-and creek-lined terrain. You also have the chance to spot unique wildlife, including rare bird species that inhabit this oasis.
Krause Springs
Discover Krause Springs in the Texas Hill Country, a camping and swimming hotspot near Lake Travis. The 32 on-site springs provide a cooling swim in the scorching Texas heat. Camping options include primitive sites and RV facilities on this 115-acre historical property. A visit to the quiet Butterfly Gardens, echoing with the sound of wind chimes and fountains, completes your experience.
Capote Springs
Visit Capote Springs, located in picturesque West Presidio County, for a unique West Texas experience. The springs, with an average temperature of 99 degrees Fahrenheit, offer a soothing retreat. Also, don’t miss the impressive Capote Falls, the tallest waterfall in Texas, within the same area. Situated in the quiet town of Candelaria, this destination offers a serene desert escape.
Rio Grande Village Springs
Explore Rio Grande Village Springs, tucked away in the Big Bend National Park near the Boquillas Canyon. Along the Rio Grande banks, the area offers stunning mountain views, cottonwood trees, and ample hiking trails leading to these family-friendly hot springs, consistently warm at 97 degrees Fahrenheit. While the grand bathhouse is no more, traces of the architectural past remain in the original foundation.
Boquillas Hot Springs
Experience the restorative calm of Big Bend Hot Springs, nestled within Texas’ Big Bend National Park on the Rio Grande River bank. Housed in the remnants of the century-old Langford Bathhouse, the large, outdoor hot springs tub offers a consistently warm soak at 105 degrees Fahrenheit. The day-use-only, motorhome-free policy ensures tranquility, while the sight of Mexico across the river adds to the locale’s allure.
Hancock Springs
Plan a visit to Hancock Springs Park in Lampasas, Texas, a venue steeped in history as the location of Texas’ oldest spring-fed pool. With cool seventy-degree water, a volleyball court, and a picnic area, it provides varied leisure activities. Add in the multipurpose clubhouse and playground, and it’s the perfect destination for a day trip or an afternoon outing.
McKinney Falls
McKinney Falls, a 641-acre park, offers the perfect backdrop for a variety of outdoor activities. With accommodations that include over 80 campsites, screened shelters, and a group dining hall, it caters to all types of campers. Outdoor adventures abound, with hiking, mountain biking, swimming, and fishing in the park’s 1.7-mile stretch of Onion Creek. Plus, its diverse wildlife provides ample opportunities for bird watching and animal spotting.
Boykin Springs
Uncover the diverse allure of Boykin Springs, nestled on Boykin Springs Lake in the Angelina National Forest near the Louisiana border. Whether you’re camping, hiking, fishing, or simply picnicking, the destination offers an immersive nature experience. The facility boasts a reservable group shelter, tent, and RV sites with convenient amenities like drinking water and hot showers. Its proximity to the Sawmill Trail, leading to the Aldridge Sawmill Historical Site, adds an intriguing historical dimension to your visit.
Comal Springs
Venture to Comal Springs in Landa Park, boasting the highest concentration of natural freshwater springs in Texas. The site comprises seven principal springs and numerous smaller ones, spread over an area exceeding 4,300 feet. With its rich history as a favorite camping site of local native tribes, it offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Balmorhea State Park
Immerse yourself in the fresh waters of Balmorhea State Park, a 46-acre site managed by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. The park’s centerpiece is the world’s largest spring-fed pool, with a constant water flow ensuring a perfect swimming environment, year-round without the need for chlorination. Whether you fancy swimming, snorkeling, or scuba diving in the pool’s 72 to 76-degree Fahrenheit waters, it’s an inviting attraction.
Inks Lake State Park
Embark on an adventurous journey to Inks Lake State Park, known locally as the “Devil’s Watering Hole.” Nestled near the Colorado River, the park offers a wide range of activities from hiking trails and camping to swimming and fishing. Not to mention, wildlife enthusiasts have the opportunity to spot deer, vultures, quail, and a variety of birds native to the area.