BARTON SPRINGS POOL


Barton Springs Pool is a massive, spring-fed natural swimming pool measuring three acres in size, located within Zilker Metropolitan Park near downtown Austin, Texas. Fed by underground channels from the Edwards Aquifer, the crystal-clear water maintains a shockingly consistent temperature of 68°F to 70°F year-round. It serves as a sacred community hub for nearly 1 million annual visitors, as well as a federally protected habitat for the endangered Barton Springs Salamander

  • Operating Hours: The pool is open daily from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM. However, it is closed every Thursday from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM for a deep, methodical cleaning of the pool floor to sustain the natural environment. [1, 2]
  • Admission Fees: Daily entry fees are enforced from mid-March (AISD Spring Break) through October. Tickets can be bought via the ATXswims app or at on-site kiosks using credit cards or exact currency. Local resident tickets cost $2 to $5, while nonresident adult tickets cost $9. [1, 2, 3]
  • Strict Rules: To protect the delicate local wildlife, no pets, smoking, or hard balls (like soccer balls or frisbees) are permitted on the surrounding grassy lawns. Food, coolers, and alcohol are strictly prohibited. Drinks are only allowed if they are contained in a plastic reusable bottle with a twist-top lid. [1]
  • Depths & Features: Water depths range from 0 to 18 feet, accompanied by a diving board, stone entry stairs, and expansive sloped lawns for sunbathing. [1, 2]
Parking & Logistics
You can access the facility from two entry points: the North Entrance (2201 William Barton Dr) and the South Entrance (1000 Azie Morton Rd). [1]
  • Parking Fees: Parking is free from Monday through Friday. On weekends and holidays between March 1st and Labor Day, parking costs $3 per hour per vehicle. [1]
  • Public Transit: Travelers can ride the 30 bus line directly to the Barton Springs (Zilker Park) stop, which drops off a brief 5-minute walk from the main gate. [1]

Comments

Popular