While cooler temperatures and shorter days may bring swimming season to a close, they’re no reason to stop visiting Texas’s gorgeous natural springs. Come winter, the crowds disperse, making it easier to gain access to many of these reservation-only watering holes. And of course, winter is the best time of year to enjoy the state’s hot springs, some of which pour steaming from the ground at 100 degrees or hotter. Here are six of the state’s most unique natural pools—three hot and three cold—to keep your wanderlust fueled all winter long.
Boquillas Hot Springs, Big Bend National Park
Tucked into a crook of the Rio Grande River in Big Bend National Park, Boquillas Hot Springs (sometimes called Langford Hot Springs) is one of the park’s best places to warm up mid-winter. The stone walls that contain the warm water used to be part of a historic bath house that stood here nearly 100 years ago. Today, the springs are open to the sky, unfurling views across the Rio Grande’s riffles and the golden rushes that line the shore. To get there, park at the Hot Springs Trailhead, and hike the half mile to the spring. When the sun has set and your toes are pruney, snag a tent or RV site at the nearby Rio Grande Village Campground.
Krause Springs, Austin
This sprawling forested park is home to dozens of natural springs and pools, several of which are fed by plummeting cascades up to 15 feet tall. While none of the springs are hot, exactly, the 68-degree water means they’re warm enough for a dip even on spring and fall afternoons. The family-owned park is private property, so you’ll need to pay a day-use fee to enter. Make a weekend of it by camping on-site at the RV-friendly Krause Springs campground, which is open from mid-February to late October.
Jacob’s Well, Wimberly
Home to the longest underwater cave in Texas, Jacob’s Well is a narrow, crystalline pool fed by an artesian spring. And while it’s closed to swimmers fall through spring, these are also the only seasons when it’s possible to take a guided tour—the best way to learn about the pool’s unique history and biochemistry. Park entry and guided tours are both free; show up at 10:00 AM any Saturday for a tour, then spend the rest of the morning exploring the park’s trails. When you’re done, head to nearby Horseshoe Ridge RV Resort for a quiet retreat with luxury amenities—including a warm indoor refuge and a roaring fireplace.
Capote Springs, Candelaria
Escape the winter doldrums by exploring the remote Chihuahuan desert, where you’ll find ancient pictographs, rare wildflowers, a 180-foot waterfall, and the hidden oasis of Capote Hot Springs. Hemmed in by a lip of mineral travertine, these springs hover at around 100 degrees F. Keep in mind that these remote springs are on private property, so you’ll need permission before visiting. When you’ve had your fill of soaking, hit the hay at nearby Chinati Mountain View campground, located just south of Candelaria.
Hamilton Pool Preserve, Austin
Located just west of Austin, this cliff-hemmed, waterfall-fed pool is available by reservation only—which makes the off season the best time to snag a coveted entry. Popular among swimmers during the summer, the pool’s sandy banks also make a tranquil spot for winter picnicking—and the perfect finish line to a hike in the nearby preserve. Go between October and April for the best chance of solitude. Then, end the day at Onlyvans, a campground catering to vanlifers and RVers, or Ranch 3232, a charming glamping facility with both canvas tents and heated cabins.
Blue Lagoon, Huntsville
Crystal Blue Lagoon in Huntsville Texas
This vividly turquoise, spring-fed lake is a favorite among scuba divers, but you don’t have to be working toward a dive cert to experience the magic. While non-divers sometimes get turned away when the park reaches capacity during the busy summer season, fall and winter bring thinner crowds. That makes it much easier for non-divers to gain last-minute entry to explore the grounds. Be sure to check the hours of operation before you go. Then snag a tent or RV site in nearby Huntsville State Park to finish out the weekend before heading home.
