Texas, the Lone Star State, has an abundance of incredible natural features.
Other than mountains, hills, grasslands, prairies, lakes, national parks, and forests, you will also get surprised to know that several natural hot springs will grab your attention to explore.
The warmth and mineralized properties of the hot spring’s water are known for their healing and rejuvenating properties.
This results in relaxing strained muscles and revivifying the skin.
Here are the 7 best Texas hot springs to explore and relish a soak!
Does Texas have any natural springs?
Texas has a few natural springs in well-known areas like Big Bend national park, Texas Hill County, and natural spring Austin downtown.
Where is the largest spring in Texas?
Comal Springs are the largest springs network in Texas, USA.
7 Best Natural Hot Springs in Texas
The reason why everyone is moving to Texas, besides economic and employment opportunities, is that they have got the right place to live after a hectic time frame.
And what more do you want than a healing warm mineralized water soak after a tiring weekday?
Hence, recommend you these best natural hot springs attractions in Texas to look upon for a relaxing weekend!
1. Boquillas Hot Springs (Langford Hot Springs)
Boquillas Hot Springs, also known as Langford hot springs, offers breathtaking scenic views of the Chisos Mountains while soaking in the warm and relaxing waters.
The rugged desert terrain and towering rock formations also add to the picturesque backdrop of the hot springs.
Can you get into the Hot Springs at Big Bend?
Hot springs can’t be accessed by car. You have to walk back and forth into the hot springs at Big Bend.
How long is Boquillas Canyon?
Boquillas Canyon Trail is 2.4 kilometers round long Canyon located in the Big Bend National Park.
| Temperature | 95-1050 F |
| Clothing | Optional |
| Best Season to visit | Fall and winter |
| Pets Allow | No |
| Camping | No designated campsites |
| History of the Place | Used by Native Americans to seek relaxation and stunning scenic views. |
| Location | The western region of Big Bend National Park in Brewster County. |
| Direction / Getting there | To get there, hike through the Rio Grande Village Nature Trail, a 2.4 km roundtrip trail from the parking area near the Rio Grande Village Campground. |
| Trial | 2.4 km well-maintained roundtrip trail that offers stunning views of the Rio Grande River and leads visitors to the Boquillas hot springs in Big Bend National Park. |
| No. of Pools | Several natural pools of varying sizes and temperatures. |
| Visitor’s tip | Visitors should come prepared with plenty of water and snacks and wear comfortable and modest swimwear for soaking in the hot springs. |
2. Barton Springs Pool
Barton Springs Pool is a natural spring pool situated in Austin, Texas, which is one of the safest places in Texas to live.
It is fed by water from Main Barton Spring, the fourth-largest spring in Texas.
Surrounded by dense greenery and towering trees, the crystal-clear water invites visitors to swim and relax in a tranquil, picturesque setting.
Is it safe to swim in Barton Springs Pool?
It is safe to swim in Barton Springs Pool at any time you visit during the year.
What is allowed at Barton Springs Pool?
Floaties, inner tubes, thermal bags, ice chests, and coolers are allowed at Barton Springs Pool.
Can you swim in Barton Springs at night?
Yes, you can swim in Barton Springs at night and enjoy the full moon scene along with a pleasant soak.
Is Barton Springs too cold?
Barton Springs has a temperature of 70 degrees constant which is cool enough to keep you cold, even if it is hot outside.
| Temperature | 68-72oF |
| Clothing | Mandatory |
| Best Season to visit | Summer |
| Pets Allow | Yes |
| Camping | Camping is not allowed on its premises. |
| History of the place | The pool has been a popular recreational spot for locals and visitors since the 1800s. Native American tribes, such as the Tonkawa and Comanche, once lived in the area and considered the springs sacred. |
| Location | Zilker Park in Austin, Texas, USA |
| Direction / Getting there | From downtown Austin, visitors can take W Cesar Chavez St west towards Mopac Expressway, turn left onto S Lamar Blvd, and continue south for approximately 2.4 km. |
| Trial | Visitors can explore the surrounding Zilker Park and its trails, including the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail, the Violet Crown Trail, and shorter nature trails. |
| No. of Pools | One large pool that measures three acres in size |
| Visitor’s tip for that place | Arrive early to prevent crowds and secure a spot to lay out or swim.Bring sunscreen, a hat, footwear, and plenty of water. |
3. Capote Springs
Capote Springs offers stunning panoramic views of the region’s rugged terrain and natural beauty. Visitors can find canyons, mesas, and rock formations.
The area is also home to various flora and fauna including cacti, wildflowers, and wildlife, such as desert bighorn sheep and golden eagles.
Where is Capote Springs?
Capote Springs flows in a remote area of quaternary gravel which is situated 17.7 kilometers northeast of Candelaria, Western Presidio County.
| Temperature | 90-1000F |
| Clothing | Optional |
| Best Season to visit | Spring and fall |
| Pets Allow | Yes |
| Camping | Camping is allowed but no developed campsites or facilities in the area. |
| History of the place | Remote and rugged wilderness area, offering visitors a glimpse into West Texas’s natural and cultural history |
| Location | Presidio County, West Texas |
| Direction / Getting there | The nearest town is Candelaria, which is approximately 40 km away. Visitors can take Ranch Road 2810 north of Candelaria for about 24 km to reach Capote Springs. |
| Trial | No designated trails. Visitors can explore the region’s rugged terrain and natural beauty by hiking and rock climbing. |
| No. of Pools | Visitors can swim in the natural pools and streams throughout the region. |
| Visitor’s tip for that place | Visitors should be prepared for remote and rugged conditions and bring all necessary supplies, including water, food, and clothing. |
4. Jacob’s Well
Jacob’s Well in Texas offers a breathtakingly beautiful natural landscape, crystal-clear water surrounded by lush greenery and rocky terrain.
Visitors can enjoy hiking, swimming, picnicking, and guided tours of the underwater cave system.
It has been known to have the best beach resorts in Texas providing free WiF, parking, and an enclosed beach for swimming as the swimming option is closed due to drought and aquifers restoration in the area.
Can you swim in Jacob’s Well in Texas?
No, you can’t swim in Jacobs well as the swimming pool is closed until an indefinite period.
Has Jacobs Well been fully explored?
Jacobs Well has been explored up to 4500 feet by the rivers of the exploration project.
Why is Jacob’s Well famous?
Jacobs Well is known to be the second-largest entirely submerged cave in the USA that releases more than 1000 gallons of water per day. The water is sourced from the Trinity aquifer which is present extremely beneath the cave system.
| Temperature | 60-70oF |
| Clothing | Mandatory |
| Best Season to visit | Spring and fall |
| Pets Allow | No |
| Camping | Not allowed, but there are several nearby campsites. |
| History of the place | Jacob’s Well is a natural spring with a network of underwater caves widespread among divers and explorers. The region has a long history dating back to indigenous peoples thousands of years ago. |
| Location | Wimberley, Texas |
| Direction / Getting there | To get to Jacob’s Well, drive or take a taxi from Austin, Texas, approximately 40 miles away. The address is 1699 Mt. Sharp Rd, Wimberley, TX 78676. Alternatively, visitors can take a shuttle or tour from Austin or San Antonio. |
| Trial | The trails vary in length and difficulty. The longest trail in the area is the Hill Trail, which is approximately 2 km long and provides incredible views of the surrounding landscape. |
| No. of Pools | One large pool |
| Visitor’s tip for that place | Visitors must wear sturdy footwear and bring plenty of water and sunscreen. |
5. Inks Lake State Park
Inks Lake State Park offers breathtaking scenic views of the clear blue water of Inks Lake against the backdrop of the rugged Texas Hill Country.
Visitors can explore the numerous hiking trails and admire the stunning rock formations, including the iconic Devil’s Waterhole.
Where is Inks Lake located?
Inks Lake is located 15 kilometers west of Burnet County. To reach Inks Lake you have to take HWY 29 to park road 4. Then, drive south for 5 kilometers to reach park headquarters.
Are dogs allowed at Inks Lake State Park?
Dogs are allowed at ink lake state park but must be kept on a leash of not more than 6 feet long.
| Temperature | 80-100oF |
| Clothing | Optional |
| Best Season to visit | Spring and fall |
| Pets Allow | Pets are allowed but must remain on a leash at all times. |
| Camping | A variety of camping options is available. |
| History of the place | Established in the 1930s, the park is situated on Inks Lake, a clear and tranquil body of water perfect for swimming, fishing, and boating. |
| Location | Burnet County, Texas |
| Direction / Getting there | Visitors can drive or take a taxi from Austin or other nearby cities to get to Inks Lake State Park. The park is located off Park Road 4, which can be accessed from Highway 29 or Highway 281. |
| Trial | There are surrounding hillsides on trails like the Devil’s Waterhole Trail and the Valley Spring Creek Trail. |
| No. of Pools | One designated pool |
| Visitor’s tip for that place | Visitors should arrive early to secure a spot and bring plenty of water and sunscreen for outdoor activities. |
6. Guadalupe River State Park
Guadalupe River State Park is renowned for its scenic beauty, with crystal clear waters, towering limestone cliffs, and lush greenery creating a picturesque landscape.
The Guadalupe Mountains are among the part of Texas that get snow due to their higher altitudes.
So, along with outdoor activities like swimming, tubing, hiking, and fishing, visitors can also enjoy the breathtaking landscape and snow-capped mountain ranges during winter months.
Can you swim at Guadalupe State Park?
Yes, you can swim at Guadalupe State Park. Along with swimming, you can canoe, tube, and fish on the river. You can hire fishing gear to fish in the park.
What city is Guadalupe River State Park in?
Guadalupe River State Park is situated along Kendall and Comal counties’ boundaries.
| Temperature | 80-90oF |
| Clothing | Optional |
| Best Season to visit | Spring and fall |
| Pets Allow | Pets are allowed but on a leash. |
| Camping | Camping is allowed. |
| History of the place | Established in 1974, the park spans over 1,900 acres and is home to various flora and fauna. |
| Location | Texas Hill Country |
| Direction / Getting there | Visitors can take I-10 West to Exit 523 for Farm to Market Road 46 toward Boerne/New Braunfels. Follow FM 46 for approximately 30 km until you reach the park entrance. |
| Trial | The Guadalupe River trail is 8km long, providing scenic views of the river and surrounding landscape. |
| No. of Pools | No artificial pools or hot springs. |
| Visitor’s tip for that place | Visitors should arrive early to secure a parking spot, avoid crowds, bring plenty of water and sunscreen, and respect the natural environment by practicing Leave No Trace principles. |
7. Boykin Springs Recreation Area
Boykin Springs Recreation Area is nestled within the Angelina National Forest and offers stunning scenic views of the piney woods and the Boykin Springs Creek.
Visitors can take a relaxing hike along the boardwalk trail, picnic beside the creek, or swim in the refreshing waters.
Where is Boykin Springs Texas?
Boykin Springs is located in the Angelina National Forest of eastern Texas adjacent to the Louisiana border.
Can you Fish at Boykin Springs?
You can fish three types of bass, catfish, panfish, and perch at Boykin Springs.
| Temperature | 80-900F |
| Clothing | Optional |
| Best Season to visit | Spring and fall |
| Pets Allow | Yes, pets are allowed, but they should be kept on a leash |
| Camping | Camping is allowed |
| History of the place | In the early 1900s, it was used as a site for logging and sawmills. In the 1930s, the Civilian Conservation Corps created many installations in the area, including picnic shelters, restrooms, and trails. |
| Location | Jasper County, Texas |
| Direction / Getting there | To get to Boykin Springs Recreation Area, take Highway 69 north out of Jasper, Texas. Turn east onto Highway 63 and travel approximately 16 km to the park entrance on the left. |
| Trial | Several hiking trails range from less than a km to over 30 km. |
| No. of Pools | No designated pools |
| Visitor’s tip for that place | Visitors should bring insect repellent and sunscreen and respect the natural environment. Avoid littering or disturbing wildlife. |
Hot Springs Near Texas FAQs
Does Texas have any Hot Springs?
Texas has few hot springs on public lands, accessible to everyone. While some are found in rural locales, other natural hot springs in Texas are found in popular places like Big Bend national park, Austin, and Texas hill country.
Can you drink Texas spring water?
Yes, you can drink Texas spring water as it meets the safety standards like the purified drinkable water in Texas.
Are there Hot Springs in Texas near Austin?
Austin has some of the best hot springs in Texas which are as follows:
- Langford Hot Springs
- Barton Springs
- Krause springs
- Jacob’s Well
Conclusion
From luxury pools to desert oasis springs, natural hot springs to privately owned ones, hot springs in Texas have various vibes, styles, and beauty.
Soaking in healing mineralized water after an entire day’s activities in one of these springs will make your trip worthwhile.
So, what are you waiting for? Just check out one destination from our picks and share your thoughts in the comments below.
