Barton Springs, Austin, TX

## Overview Barton Springs is one of Austin's most iconic natural treasures, located within the beloved Zilker Park in the heart of the city. Fed by the Edwards Aquifer through porous limestone formations, this remarkable spring maintains a refreshingly cool temperature of approximately 68–70°F (20–21°C) year-round, making it a favorite swimming destination in the sweltering Texas summers and a brisk but invigorating dip in winter. The spring feeds Barton Springs Pool, a massive 3-acre natural swimming pool that stretches roughly 1,000 feet in length. The water is famously crystal-clear, filtered naturally through limestone as it percolates up from the Edwards Aquifer. The spring system produces an estimated 64,000 gallons of water per day, though flow rates can vary significantly depending on rainfall and aquifer conditions — during wetter periods, the springs have been known to discharge millions of gallons per day. Barton Springs has a deep cultural and historical significance. The springs were used by indigenous peoples for thousands of years, and archaeological evidence suggests human activity at the site dating back over 10,000 years. The Tonkawa and Comanche peoples are among the Native American groups known to have frequented the area. In the 19th century, the springs became a popular gathering place for settlers, and the site was eventually developed into a public swimming facility in the 1920s and 1930s. Today, Barton Springs Pool is a designated Critical Environmental Feature by the City of Austin and is home to the endangered Barton Springs salamander (*Eurycea sosorum*), a species found nowhere else on Earth. The water has historically been used as a drinking water source and has long been celebrated for its purity and refreshing taste, though visitors should note that water quality can fluctuate, particularly after heavy rains when runoff may affect conditions. ## Directions 1. Head to **Zilker Park**, located at **2100 Barton Springs Road, Austin, TX 78746**. 2. From downtown Austin, take **Barton Springs Road** west — the park entrance will be on your left after crossing Lamar Boulevard. 3. Enter Zilker Park and follow signs toward **Barton Springs Pool**. There are several parking lots within the park; the lot nearest to the pool is located just south of the pool entrance. 4. Walk to the **Barton Springs Pool entrance**, which is well-marked with signage. 5. **GPS coordinates:** 30.267649, -97.767891 *Note: Parking at Zilker Park can fill up quickly on weekends and during summer months. Arriving early or on weekday mornings is recommended.* ## What to Expect Barton Springs Pool is a stunning, spring-fed swimming hole set against a backdrop of mature pecan trees and rolling green lawns. The pool bottom is natural limestone and gravel, and the water is remarkably clear — visibility often extends to the bottom even at its deepest points (around 18 feet near the diving board area). The pool is open most days from dawn to dusk, with a small admission fee during lifeguard-staffed hours (typically from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM, with paid hours from 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM, though hours vary seasonally). Free swim periods are available during early morning and late evening hours. The pool is occasionally closed for maintenance or cleaning, so checking the City of Austin Parks and Recreation website before your visit is a good idea. The surrounding area within Zilker Park offers picnic areas, hiking and biking trails (including the popular Barton Creek Greenbelt), playgrounds, and the Zilker Botanical Garden. The grassy hillside above the pool is a popular spot for sunbathing and people-watching. The constant 68–70°F water temperature means the pool feels cool and refreshing in summer but can be quite bracing in cooler months — many locals swim year-round regardless. The limestone percolation gives the water its signature clarity and a clean, mineral-fresh quality that visitors frequently remark upon. Be aware that after significant rainfall events, the pool may be temporarily closed due to elevated bacteria levels from stormwater runoff. Facilities include restrooms, changing areas, and a small concession stand during peak season.