Salado Creek, Texas

## Overview Salado Creek Springs is a collection of natural springs located beneath and around Main Street in the charming village of Salado, Texas, within Bell County. These springs feed Salado Creek, which has been a vital water source in Central Texas for centuries. The springs emerge from the Edwards Plateau limestone, part of the broader karst geology that characterizes much of the Texas Hill Country and produces many of the state's most notable spring systems. The area around Salado Creek has deep historical roots. The name "Salado" is derived from the Spanish word for "salty," a reference to the mineral character of the local waters. Long before European settlement, the springs and creek served as a gathering place for Native American peoples. In the 19th century, Salado grew into a prominent stagecoach stop along the Chisholm Trail, and the reliable spring-fed waters of the creek were a major reason travelers and settlers were drawn to the area. The village of Salado, established in the 1850s, became one of the early cultural centers of Texas, and the springs played a central role in that development. Today, the springs and creek can be enjoyed at Pace Park, a public green space located along Pace Park Road in the heart of Salado. The park provides easy access to the spring-fed creek and is a popular spot for wading, picnicking, and exploring the natural beauty of the area. ## Directions 1. From Interstate 35, take **Exit 283** for Salado. 2. Head east on **Thomas Arnold Road**, which leads into the village of Salado. 3. Turn south (right) onto **Main Street (FM 2268)**. 4. Continue on Main Street through the village center. Look for signs for **Pace Park** on your left (east side). 5. Turn left onto **Pace Park Road** and follow it to the park entrance. 6. The GPS coordinates (30.944467, -97.537173) will bring you to the area near **570 Pace Park Road, Salado, TX 76571**. 7. Parking is available within the park. The springs emerge along and beneath the creek bed in this area — explore the creek banks and the shaded areas under the Main Street bridge to find the spring outlets. ## What to Expect At Pace Park, visitors will find a scenic, spring-fed stretch of Salado Creek shaded by large trees, with limestone creek banks and shallow, clear water. Several springs bubble up from beneath the creek bed and along the banks, some directly under the Main Street bridge. The water is typically cool and clear, characteristic of limestone spring systems in Central Texas. The park features walking paths, picnic areas, and easy creek access — making it a great spot for families, nature lovers, and anyone curious about Texas spring water. Wading in the creek is popular, especially during warmer months. The village of Salado itself is a well-known arts and shopping destination, so a visit to the springs can easily be combined with exploring local galleries, restaurants, and historic sites. Water flow can vary seasonally and is influenced by regional rainfall and aquifer levels. During dry periods, some of the smaller spring outlets may slow or temporarily cease. The water has historically been used as a drinking water source by early settlers and travelers, though modern visitors should be aware that water quality can fluctuate and no guarantees of potability can be made. The park is publicly accessible and there is no entrance fee. The terrain is generally easy to navigate, though creek banks can be slippery when wet.