Barton Springs Pool

I paid 8 $ because we are non-​residents and it was not worth it! It was 98 degrees outside and that water was ridiculously freezing! Not like oh let me swim for a a while and then it’s ok! No like you are going to hurt the longer you stay in!!! Glad I saw it but will not ever do it again!!! And you can’t bring anything in but they have not water you can buy! They have not lockers for your stuff! Weird!

Wow, I wish there was something like this closer to where I live in Cali! The water was icy, but with the heat of the sun, you didn’t feel cold at all. The place was packed on a summer Friday, just adding to the fun atmosphere of it all. Only suggestion, have a separate are for adults and children, the splashing got to be a little much when I was trying to relax on my raft.

Barton Springs pool is located very close to downtown Austin. There is a ton of parking, but it falls up quick. It costs $ 3 for Austin residents and $ 6 for non residents (all they ask for is your zip code, so technically you could just give your Air BNB zip code if you’re out of town to save the $ 3) They do have pay stations for parking however, they were not working at the time we came in so it was free.
It is my favorite spot we’ve been to, we came in on a Friday early afternoon and it was hella packed. But don’t be discouraged, even if the line is super long and the parking lot is full, the swimming area is HUGE and there’s tons of space to stretch out on the grass.
I was so taken aback by how CLEAN the place is. Maybe because in my native land of Louisiana people can be supa trashay, but here there was zero garbage and it just looked nature fresh even though there were tons of people around.
Just a warning for the conservative folks, this pool is topless friendly, we were told when we walked in that one section was topless, but we saw topless folks sprinkled all over, so keep it in mind if the kids are coming. It’s natural, get over it.
The water is FREEZING! OMG it was such a shock for the girl like me that just jumps in the water, EEEkkkk, It was sooooooo hot that day so it was incredibly refreshing after the initial shock.
We brought towels, books, water and I had my purse, at first we took turns going in the water, but then we felt pretty comfortable both going in th water and leaving our stuff, people tend to mind their own business here.
We had a great time and we can’t wait to come back!

So pretty and COLD on a hot summer day. It’s a little pricey for a non-​resident ($ 8), but my friend and I were glad we made the trip. I wish we had known you could get in the other side without paying, but we couldn’t figure out how to move from one side to the other. Still, highly recommend!

The water is freezing. Let me make that very clear from the start. The water is very cold.
With that being said, we had a really great time getting to hang out at this pool. I had been here as a child but this was my first time as an adult.
We got there on the early side, around 10is on a Saturday morning and I am very glad we did! Parking was already starting to fill up and we ended up having to make a little bit of a trek to the pool from the car. Once we reached the outside of the pool we bought our tickets from the automated stand, which really proved to be not that much of a time saver as you still have to wait in the same line as those who are waiting to purchase their tickets when they check in. The line wasn’t too awful, except there is limited shade to stand under while you are waiting, but when we came out at the end around 12:30 the line was wrapped around the building and looked miserable.
We didn’t really interact with any of the lifeguards or staff so i can’t comment on how they were, but the ones we did talk to were really friendly and nice.
The water was super clean, I would recommend water shoes because it is nature and there are all kinds of vegetation growing on the bottom.
For our future trips I believe we will:
1.) Bring floaties to sit on because it got somewhat boring just trying to stand in the water
2.) Not bring anything but water bottles and our towels-​there are no lockers so we were nervous to float to far way from my bag that was just sitting on the grass
3.) Make sure we get there no late than 10:00AM to make sure we don’t have to avoid the lines
I really enjoyed getting to hang out and here and can’t wait to come back!

Barton Springs is a beautiful natural springs so there is wildlife and plant life. There is a no food rule due in some part to red ants. I watched a woman illicitly smoke she left her butts on the ground. I threw them away. It was disgusting. Also it would be nice if people would refrain from using Barton Springs as a toilet. Dogs on the over flow side can’t help it but people swimming in the springs can. The life guards are not nazis they are doing a job the is difficult given the size and scope of Barton Springs.

Growing up in Austin in the 70s our babysitter would love bringing us to this pool. It became a favorite during the hot Texas summers. Throughout the years as we’ve grown, had children of our own and brought them to this special place it has remained the one constant in what is now a huge, bustling metropolis. I’m here now, laying back on the lawn, writing this review. I close my eyes and listen to the same sounds I did 30 years ago on this day. For an instant I am 10 years old again and the brevity of my life is not weighing me down. It’s a truly magical place.

I went to this natural pool on a Tuesday (around noon.) and it was pretty empty. We found a spot to park quickly and the guy who sold us the tickets was friendly and nice.
The water was clean and cold and luckily it didn’t have any fishes. At some parts the depth of the pool is 5″ something so unless you’re tiny you can touch the bottom with your feet at all times.
I give it 3 stars because the curtains of the showers were missing or broken and the water to shower in the bathrooms, very cold.
If you are not an Austin resident (We came from La) the price is 8 $ per adult, which I feel expensive for the facilities they offer.

What a refreshing place to cool off after a hot bike ride! We really enjoyed our time there the rocks were quite slippery and I wished I had worn my keen sandals. I was a little surprised by the top optional for the ladies. There were not many but still some around. I guess I’m not use to such freedom. The water is bracingly COLD! Once you get in it is quite refreshing. The shower changing area was very nice. I did not use the solar powered showers but my friends did and I said her water was warm and the other said hers was cold. Truly a fun experience to swim in a facility such as this

Amazing place, everyone knows that. Great landmark, they seem to keep it clean, super cool environment.
My one complaint is that the pricing on the board shows $ 4 for out of towners, but the machines charge $ 8. I live here so it wasn’t a problem, but my friends were charged $ 8 which is a pretty steep price compared to that past.
Either way, totally worth it!

This is an iconic spot in Austin. All locals know about it and I’d definitely recommend a visit for tourists as well. The pool is located in the Zilker Park area with its own dedicated parking lot. As I recall there is a small fee to get into the pool and there is a fee for parking, on the weekends at least. Inside there is plenty of room to spread out with large grassy areas for laying towels out. The water is pretty cold since it is fed by the spring. Even if you are too chicken to get in the water you’ll enjoy laying out and enjoying the iconic spot.

I’m ashamed to say that I lived in Austin for 5 years and never appreciated how cool Zilker Park and Barton Springs are. Now that I’m coming back to Austin to visit, I always make a point to go to Barton Springs! This pool is hands down one of my favorite things about Austin.
Barton Springs Pool is a natural part of Barton Creek that they converted into a swimming pool. I love how it’s just a part of the natural landscape, and cool all year round! Try to find a shady spot to rest under a tree. The water is cold, but so refreshing on a hot day! You even have a small view of downtown.
I recommend coming on a weekday if possible because it gets crowded on the weekends. The pool is family friendly… No drinks or snacks allowed. If you’re a local, prices are cheap to get in… It’s $ 8 for out of town adults to get in, which is still a great deal because you can stay all day or stamp your hand to come back in if you go out for lunch or something.

Must stop by here if you are in Austin. The vibe and energy there is really cool. Just a bunch of people hanging out. The water is really cold though. Reminds me of San Diego water. Once you get in and your boy adjusts it’s not that bad. Really cool watering hole to hangout and just relax at. I live in Houston and wish we had something like this.
Doesn’t get extremely packed. I have been here twice and the crowds are not that bad. Now parking is another story. Pretty hard to find parking when the sun is out. I def recommend checking this place out. If your muscles are sore and tired the cold water will help repair them.

I live so close yet I don’t go to Barton Springs enough. It’s a great way to kill an afternoon. I really enjoy just hanging out by the pool, catching some rays, and popping into the spring occasionally to cool off. Uptight, body shaming parents beware! Chesticles are out and about.
Barton Springs is cheap and parking is free. You really can’t beat it, but it beats the heat!

Interesting, unique and a bit eccentric is how I’d describe Barton Springs. This spring fed natural pool is large, beautiful and inviting. It even has a diving board and is surrounded by sloped grassy areas which are filled with a mix of hippies, families, potheads, tourists, locals and just regular folks looking to cool off on a hot summer day. And trust me, all it takes is a quick dip in the pool and you will be ready for the warm sun again. 68 degrees is way too chilly for this Arizona girl!
Things to watch out for– fire ants, lots of seaweed in the pool, and topless women (I’m sure the men don’t mind). Welcome to Austin!

If you’re in Austin for the summer, Barton Springs Pool is a place you must go visit! The water is very cold (you’ve been warned) so be prepared for that coming in. However, when the temperature outside is 100 degrees, the cool water will be your best friend.
The parking can be a little crazy during the weekend, so if you can, I suggest going during a weekday. There’s also likely to be less people there. From what I remember, they give a discount if you are an Austin resident, but the entry fee for visitors is really low too ($ 4?).
Bring your blankets to lay on, since there’s plenty of grassy areas. Every time I’ve gone there’s people of all ages at the pool, and I have yet to see the pool seem dirty. It’s definitely fun for the whole family.

Walked through on New Years day and was amazed by this place, and also the fact that people were swimming and it was freezing out! They said it didn’t feel as cold in the water since it was 68 degrees and colder outside but I wasn’t taking any chances! lol
It’s beautiful and can’t wait to dive in when the weather gets warmer! Lots of grassy area to bring a blanket and hang out for the day. A real gem!

Barton Springs Pool is an absolute must-​see before you leave Austin. It was in my top three favorite places that we visited in Austin.
We took the bus from downtown, skipped our stop, and had to spend the next half an hour backtracking to get to our destination. But when we finally reached this little area, it took us both by surprise of how amazing it was.
It’s a natural spring, in the form of a pool, with each end stretching out for what seems to be a little less than a quarter mile. At this time of year, there are no fees that are collected so although cold, you can still go for a dip in this amazing place… free of charge :)
I really wish I had brought my swimsuit. I was itching to dive into the water! It is very cold this time of year but even if it’s a short little swim, it would be well worth it.
Enjoy! Stay warm.

Barton pool is a little oasis! Diving board was fun and the stairs give you access to walking into the freezing water with ease. No dogs allowed and lifeguards are constantly blowing their whistles.

Barton springs pool was the reason we stayed in the Zilker neighborhood and it definitely lived up to our expectations.
Despite the change in weather it was free in the off season, still life guarded though, and definitely warm enough to go swimming.
The water is a azure blue from the natural spring source. Our fellow pool goers were swimming laps and having fun. The trails around this area are great for hiking, dog walking and people watching!

My favorite weekday summer spot to escape to after work.
Water is at a cold 72 degrees or something, so be prepared. If going alone, bring a book so you can lay down on the hill when you want to take breaks.
There is a b-​cycle bike stop outside the pool for those who don’t want to drive.

A great place to lay back, tan, nap, and take a quick dip in the water. Yes the water is cold and yes you should just get it over with and jump in. I of course being a chicken, stuck my toes in first and slowly made my way in, holding on tight to my boyfriend lol. Not the way to do it but trust me when I say your body does adjust to the water, just give it a few minutes.
It kinda stinks that no food or alcohol are allowed. It would be nice to have a picnic here with all the grassy areas surrounding the pool. But I guess this is part of the parks effort in keeping the grounds clean and litter free? I’m sure people sneak in food, alcohol, etc. They don’t check your bag, so go for it!

I can see why people love it but just not for me. Everywhere to put your stuff is on a slope on thick grass.
The sides are slimy coated with algae but it is a natural pool. It is pretty chilly but after you get in, totally fine. One side is free and one side you pay for. The side that is free looks crazy with dogs, yelling, and just rampant children. Literally saw a group of men, that could have been homeless, screaming at each other and was convinced they were going to get in a fight.

This is a nice spot on a hot day and Texas has quite a few of those. Admission is $ 3 for residents and $ 4 for non residents. Plenty of parking. You going and pick your spot and the fun begins. See how long you can last in the sun before you decide to jump in the water. The water is pretty cold at 68 degrees so it might take you a minute to settle in. I believe the levels range from 3 feet up to 7, where there is a diving board. Plenty life guards to keep an eye on you so that you don’t go and drown yourself.

Freezing cold! Don’t let anybody else tell you differently! Lots of sloped grass to lay on, pretty much on all sides of the pool. There’s a nominal entrance fee to get in and places to park a bike. We like to ride the trail and stop here for a dip sometimes. It’s been pretty packed the times we’ve been. Definitely a unique Austin staple and a must try for anyone who hasn’t been.

Everyone and their mom goes to these springs. Parking can be tough so just circle around anywhere and go closer to the park and make the walk. So I wasnt aware but there are two sides to the pool. One side is free and that is where I ended up. I just placed my backpack on a bench but make sure you keep an eye out. I just dont trust this scene. So I walked around in the water with my flip flops because those rocks are tough to keep your balance on. So the right side is where all the royalty are. It is actually fenced and separated haha. From my peasant position, the other side looked a lot more maintained and there was grass so you could lay down on a blanket. The waters looked calmer and I bet they didnt feel the pain of the rocks beneath their feet. Oh well. It is a cool experience to just hang with friends in the pool.

Either you love Barton Springs or you’re wrong.
There’s really nothing to say that others haven’t already said but here’s some pro tips:
–If the line is really long on a hot summer day, you can pay at an electronic stand under the tall ‘Barton Springs’ sign and by pass the line with your stub. Quicker than waiting, for sure!
–You aren’t supposed to bring in alcohol BUT if you pack it in your bag with your towel, no one will ever ask you about it.
–No lockers for your stuff but I’ve never had an issue with anyone snatching anything from my bag or on my towel.
–Get in all the way to your neck on the first go around or else you’ll freeze. I swear it’s so much better when you’re covered with the water.
–Don’t forget to stop near the front entrance way when you leave and grab a stamp if you’re even thinking about coming back in.

Surprisingly, I was a bit disappointed in Barton Springs Pool. The concept is cool — a natural pool morphed into a traditional man-​made pool, but with grass hills instead of pool chairs on concrete. But my actual experience wasn’t quite so great:
The Cons:
No food or drink is allowed. That immediately takes away from your ability to truly lay out there for hours and enjoy a day by the pool.
There were birds EVERYWHERE. Flying down at you, jumping around the grass, etc.
I kept getting bitten by bugs.
The water was simply too cold to actually enjoy. Even though it was 105 degrees outside while I was there, I couldn’t tolerate the frigid water temperature.
To be honest, the water was kind of gross. I felt incredibly slimy after I dipped in. And I’m used to swimming in lakes!
I struggled touching the bottom, which made for a difficult time to relax in the water.
The Pros:
I liked the dog area just outside of the pool — you would wade ankle or calf deep and watch pups play in the water.
The price of admittance into the pool is very reasonable.
Overall, I feel this place got a lot of hype but instead, I would ride your bike along the river or kayak on the river instead.

This place is a bunch of fun. Love the concept. Giant pool with variable heights makes it so clutch for those people (like me) that aren’t the strongest of swimmers but for some reason love jumping in to waterholes.
Get there early… about 1 – 2 pm the lines are crazy. Great way to avoid the heat and it won’t break the bank.

Awesome looking pool. Wish we had something like this in LA.
Free parking.
Entry for non residents is $ 4.
No one was at the gate or inside the pool so I think it was closed for some reason so I just left.

Im lovin ATX… all the glorious outside activities… the hiking, the camping, the cleaner living, the interesting people. hill country… the music. oh the music… but I digress. Barton Springs Pool is so freekin cool… and when I say cool I mean COLD… lol. its a natural spring that stays a consistent 62 degrees year round. Combined with this raging hot texas heat, it really hits the spot.4 bucks will get ya in and you can chill as long as you like. there also a little rapids area on the other side of the little dam they have where I will be playing upon my next visit…
do yourself a favor, dont dip a toe or you will chicken out… just jump IN…
refreshing.

Within Zilker Park (amazing enough as-​is: check out my favourite Instagram feed — dogs of Zilker Park!), Barton Springs is 3 acres of (natural) pool fed by an underground spring. This means that the water is always 68 – 70 degrees.
It is also a beautiful site/​sight.
Go for a swim, have a splash, use the diving boards. It’s a lovely mix of natural setting and feeling as though there is some structure /​supervision in place. Ha, did that make me sound terribly square? I just mean that it’s nice to see staffed lifeguards roaming, and several sitting atop the lifeguard tower. SAFETY FIRST YOU GUYZ.
It’s $ 4 (if I’m not mistaken) to get in, and — though there is concrete lining the pool itself — there is plenty of grassy hillside to go around. Parking is (relatively) plentiful. It’s beautiful, an Austin institution, and worth a visit even on the hottest of days (especially on the hottest of days?).
Unilocal note: the concessions are _​pricey_​. Avoid paying $ 5 for a single serving Gatorade and bring some gear from home.