San Felipe Spring, Del Rio, TX

## Overview San Felipe Springs is one of the largest artesian springs in Texas, located in the heart of Del Rio in Val Verde County. Often ranked as the third-largest spring system in the state, San Felipe Springs produces an enormous volume of water — historically estimated at tens of thousands of gallons per minute — rising from the Edwards-Trinity Aquifer through deep limestone fissures. The springs have served as a vital water source for thousands of years, first for indigenous peoples and later for Spanish missionaries and settlers who established communities along its banks. The name "San Felipe" dates back to the Spanish colonial era, reflecting the spring's long-standing importance in the region. Today, the spring's outpouring is self-contained within a managed headwater area situated on a steep hillside just off US Highway 90. The crystal-clear water surges from the ground and flows downhill, channeling through tunnels beneath the highway before feeding into San Felipe Creek, which runs through a public park featuring swimming areas for both children and adults. The City of Del Rio uses San Felipe Springs as a municipal water source and chlorinates the water for public distribution, so the water flowing through the park system is treated. Visitors should be aware that while the spring water has historically been prized for its clarity and volume, the municipally managed portions are chlorinated. The spring and surrounding parkland offer a remarkable window into the geological power of the Edwards-Trinity Aquifer and remain a beloved community gathering spot, especially during the hot South Texas summers. ## Directions 1. From downtown Del Rio, head south/southeast on **US Highway 90** toward Laughlin Air Force Base. 2. Watch for the **H-E-B Supermarket** on your right — this is a key landmark. 3. At the H-E-B, turn right onto the road heading toward **Brackettville** (this is US 90 East / Gibbs Street area). 4. Continue approximately **one mile**. You will see **San Felipe Springs Park** on one side of the highway. 5. Just across the highway from the park, look for the entrance to the **spring headwaters**, which sits up on a steep hillside. 6. Park in the designated area and walk up to view the massive spring outflow. **GPS Coordinates:** 29.365913, -100.898064 **Nearest Address:** 409 E Gibbs St, Del Rio, TX 78840 ## What to Expect The spring headwaters are an impressive sight — water surges from the limestone bedrock at a staggering rate, making San Felipe Springs one of the most voluminous springs in all of Texas. The viewing area at the headwaters is located on a steep hillside, so wear sturdy footwear. From the headwaters, the spring water flows downhill and passes through tunnels beneath the highway into **San Felipe Springs Park**, a well-maintained public park along San Felipe Creek. The park features designated swimming areas for both kids and adults — a welcome oasis in the South Texas heat. The park area is a popular local recreation spot with shaded picnic areas along the creek. Hours for the spring viewing area have been reported as approximately **8:00 AM to 5:00 PM**, though visitors should check locally for current access times, as hours may vary seasonally. The park along the creek may have different hours. Keep in mind that the City of Del Rio chlorinates the spring water as part of its municipal supply, so the water flowing through the park system is treated. The raw spring output at the headwaters, before municipal treatment, has historically been valued for its purity, though no current independent water quality testing data is available for the untreated source. San Felipe Springs is conveniently located close to downtown Del Rio, making it easy to combine a visit with a meal or shopping trip in town. The area near the US-Mexico border also offers additional cultural and historical attractions for those exploring the region.