20 June . 2016
Barton Springs Pool, Austin’s crown jewel
Sometimes called the “soul of Austin” – and definitely one of the city’s crown jewels – Barton Springs Pool is a three-acre manmade pool fed by natural underground springs originating from the Edwards Aquifer.
The pool’s average year ‘round temperature of 68-70 degrees attracts nearly 800,000 visitors a year, but don’t let the crowds deter you from enjoying this Hill Country oasis. You might even swim with somebody famous, now in in the future, such as Robert Redford, who learned to swim here at the age of 5.
The pool ranges from very shallow to 18 feet in depth, with grassy and shady banks for sunbathing and relaxing. Adjacent to the pool bathhouse, the Splash! exhibit educates visitors of all ages about the history and biology of Barton Springs and the Edwards Aquifer.
As home to the Barton Springs Salamander, Barton Springs is listed as a federally protected habitat. Every Thursday, the pool is closed from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. for a vigorous and methodical cleaning, which helps to maintain the pool’s pristine environment for humans and wildlife alike.
Located in 358-acre Zilker Park, near downtown Austin, Barton Springs Pool is owned by Austin Parks & Recreation. The city is currently in the midst of a master plan to restore and maintain the water quality at Barton Springs Pool, and to make improvements such as renovating the Sunken Gardens and historic structures such as the bathhouse.
Season passes and discounted punch cards are available.
Barton Springs Pool was voted the #1 Swimming Hole in Texas by Texas Country Reporter - See the article and video here.