Hamilton Pool Texas

Hamilton Pool Preserve is a natural pool that was created when the dome of an underground river collapsed due to massive erosion thousands of years ago.

Hamilton pool Texas, is surrounded by huge slabs of limestone that rest by the water's edge; large stalactites grow from the ceiling high above. Hamilton Creek spills out over limestone outcroppings to create a 50 foot waterfall as it plunges into the head of a steep box canyon. The waterfall never completely dries up, but in dry times it does slow to a trickle. However, the pool's water level stays pretty constant, even during periods of drought. Hamilton Pool preserve is managed as a natural area (preserve) with emphasis on habitat protection and restoration, environmental education for public and private groups, and ongoing research; it offers limited, day-use only, with recreational opportunities such as picnicking, hiking, swimming and nature study.  

Just 23 miles west of Austin, a city known for its quirks and weirdness, is perhaps the weirdest sight in all of Texas: a breathtaking natural oasis emerging out of the desert dust and scrub grass. Hamilton pool is located about 37 km west of Austin, Texas off Highway 71. Since the 1960s, Hamilton Pool has been a favorite summer swimming spot for Austin visitors and residents. Waterfalls routinely fall from the lip of the overhang, flowing down the 50-foot drop and splashing into the cool water below, making this a beautiful and refreshing location for sunbaked summer adventurers and swimmers. Hamilton Pool Park Trail is a 1.5 mile out and back trail located near Dripping Springs, Texas that features a waterfall and is rated as moderate. The trail is primarily used for hiking and is accessible year-round. 

Hamilton Pool Texas, is home to the Golden-Cheeked Warbler, and a great variety of other birds. The diverse vegetation of Hamilton Pool ranges from semi-arid species in the uplands to riparian species in the canyon. The uplands of the preserve are a juniper and oak savannah with a variety of native grasses and wildflowers. Several rare plant species including canyon mock-orange, red bay (western-most colony of this eastern species), and chatter box orchid are known to occur in the canyon areas along Hamilton Creek.

The natural pool and creek are not chemically treated, so water quality is monitored regularly and swimming is occasionally restricted; call ahead to check conditions before your visit. Note that there are no lifeguards on duty, and drinking water and concessions are not available. Composting toilets and picnic tables are provided near the parking lot. Since Hamilton Pool is a nature preserve, the following rules apply: no fishing, mountain biking, camping, dogs or other pets. Cooking and fires are also not permitted. The preserve is open for day use activities 7 days a week year-round (except Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day & New Year's Day) from 9 AM to 6 PM. Entry to the park is not permitted after 5:30 PM. During periods of peak visitation, such as holidays and weekends, the park quickly fills to capacity -- all available parking spaces become filled. This forces the park to close until parking spaces become available. Hamilton Pool is really a gorgeous place to visit.