It’s summer-time in Texas, which means San Antonians are probably sweating more than a cold cerveza in the hot sun. Trust us, we’ve all been there, and it’s not the best. But you know what is the best? Being able to dip your toes into a cool pool while hanging onto your coin. So we’ve curated this list of tip-top swim spots near San Antonio where you won’t have to shell out big bucks to get your feet wet.
Mckinney Falls State Park 5808 McKinney Falls Pkwy, Austin, (512) 243-1643 Can we all take a moment to appreciate the fact that Texans can experience these beautiful views first-hand, and for the affordable price of $6 per person? Amazing. Photo via Instagram, victoria.w
Wimberly Blue Hole 100 Blue Hole Lane, Wimberley, (512) 660-9111 The Blue Hole is a serene natural hideaway where you can relax and get your last summer kicks in before swimming season ends. Take a peek at their website to view their affordable admission fees. Photo via Instagram, kaleeemorgann
Medina Lake Medina Lake, Texas With entrance fees typically topping out to no more than $10, Medina Lake is a prime summer-time destination. Photo via Instagram, kvo25
San Marcos River 221 Sessom Drive, San Marcos, (512) 393-5930 At the San Marcos River, we can all float on okay (and for free). Photo via Instagram, a_pup_named_indy_
Hippie Hollow 7000 Comanche Trail, Austin, (512) 854-7275 Does this one really need an explanation? For only $15 a vehicle, you and a car-load of your best buds can pitch in to go swimming at the only clothing-optional public park in Texas. No tan-lines? No Problem. Photo via Instagram, lauren_mangold
Barton Springs Pool and Creek 2201 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, (512) 867-3080 Barton Springs is an outdoors-y Austinite’s bread and butter. The entrance fees to the pool are cheap (under $10), and the surrounding greenbelt swim-holes are free. Some of the best spots are a bit of a hike, but what’s it worth if you’re not willing to work for it? Photo via Instagram, trompetespieler
Guadalupe River Guadalupe River State Park Rd., Spring Branch, (830) 438-2656 While the Guadalupe River is a popular $7 summer-time retreat for Texas locals, it never really seems crowded. There are a ton of little hideaways that require a bit of walking to get to, but are well worth going the extra mile for. Photo via Instagram, guadaluperiverstatepark
Krause Springs 404 Krause Spring Rd., Spicewood, (830) 693-4181, krausesprings.net This ethereal natural retreat has gotta be one of the most beautiful places to go for a dip in Texas. For admission prices set at under $10 per person, you can enjoy this cool spot on a hot summer day. How much does it cost to feel like a mermaid in a fantasy realm? Well, that’s free. Photo via Instagram, takenbythe.wind
Hamilton Pool 24300 Hamilton Pool Road, Dripping Springs, (512) 264-2740 This gorgeous summer getaway is no doubt one of the most scenic swimming holes in Texas. Surrounded by the remains of a collapsed underground river, Hamilton Pool is a top spot for summer fun and photo op’s. Be sure to make reservations ahead of time, and split the cost with up to 7 of your friends to make this trip a cheap one. Check out the park website for details on how to execute a plan. Photo via Instagram, farwaaaa
The Comal Springs at Landa Park 164 Landa Park Dr., New Braunfels, (830) 221-4350 Located just west of the popular Schlitterbahn waterparks, the Comal Springs at Landa park is a peaceful place to float away from all your problems. Photo via Instagram, minaizzysilva
Woodlawn Pool 1103 Cincinnati Ave, (210) 207-7275, Open swim: 1-7 pm, Tues-Sun The Woodlawn pool is located within a tranquil park, surrounded by a running trail, a playground, picnicking areas, sports fields, and a lake where fishing is allowed. It’s an all-around fun place to be, where there’s truly something for everyone. Photo via Instagram, losnsa
Devil’s Waterhole at Inks Lake State Park 3630 Park Rd. 4 W., Burnet, (512) 793-2223 Sure, okay, this park is about a 2 hour drive from downtown San Antonio. However, if you just happen to be in the area, you really can’t afford to miss these views. What can you afford? To have the time of your life at the meager price of a $6 admission fee. Photo via Instagram, glowjangles
Rio Vista Falls in San Marcos 555 Cheatham St., San Marcos, (512) 393-8400 Are you ready to relax in the crystal-clear falls of the San Marcos River? For Free? I don’t think you’re ready. Grab some friends and some floaties, and get ready to have some summer fun. Just stay hydrated, and don’t litter. Photo via Instagram, a_evanss
Blanco State Park 101 Park Rd. 23, Blanco, (830) 833-4333 This Texas swim spot is located only about an hour away from downtown San Antonio, and with an entrance fee of only $5 per person, it’s easy to see why it’s so popular. Photo via Instagram, _jeepingtx_
San Pedro Pool 2200 N. Flores St., (210) 732-5992, Open swim: 2-8 pm, Tues-Sun This historic swimming hole is probably one of the best places to get your feet wet in downtown San Antonio. It’s the perfect retreat from the Texas heat, and there’s no admission fee. Photo via Instagram, mflannigan
Canyon Lake Canyon Lake, Texas Located just about an hour out from downtown San Antonio, Canyon lake is an ideal place to go swimming, fishing, jet-skiing, barbecuing, sunset-watching…the list goes on. What are you waiting for? Check out their website to see which parks have free admission, and go have fun. Photo via Instagram, sam_lip
Heritage pool 1423 S. Ellison Dr., (210) 645-9465, Open swim: 1-7 pm, Tues-Sun Heritage is a great place to work on your pool-side relaxation skills. In fact, go ahead and list that skill on your resume so everyone can know you’re the best at relaxing. Photo via Instagram, san_antonio_foodjunkie
Garner State Park at the Frio River 234 R.R. 1050, Concan, (830) 232-6132 The crystal-clear waters of the Frio River are a great place gather with family and friends. At only $8 per person, you could probably afford to bring someone along who’s maybe even…more than a friend? It’s a great place to go on a date, is what we’re saying. Photo via Instagram, jadeohtx_
Schumacher Crossing West Kerr Current, 107 TX-39, Ingram This popular swimming haven is fed by the waters of the Guadalupe River, and is a great place for a day-trip with some of your best buds. Photo via Instagram, ashhmonty
Fairchild Pool 1214 E. Crockett, (210) 207-7275, Open swim: 2-8 pm, Tues-Sun Fairchild Park is a great place to relax with a cooler full of pool-side snacks. Photo via Instagram, streetbrat