Location
Hamilton
Pool Preserve is located about 30 miles west of Austin on FM 3238. From SH 71/U.S. 290
junction southwest of Austin, take SH 71 about 81/2miles to FM 3238 (Hamilton Pool Road),
turn left and travel about 13 miles to the preserve. The entrance to the 232-acre preserve
is on the right. The 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. Here are some numbers to call for more information:
- County Parks information - (512) 854-7275
- Hamilton Pool information - (512) 264-2740
About Hamilton Preserve
The preserve's pool and grotto were formed when the
dome of an underground river collapsed due to massive erosion thousands of years ago.
There is a 45 foot water fall creating a great swimming hole. You need to also hike some of the nature trails along the creek.
Swimming is allowed only when the water quality meets safe standards. Water quality is
monitored regularly. Updated information is posted at the entrance booth and provided on
the park's telephone recorder message (512-264-2740). The parking lot is sized for 75 cars, and when all spaces are
taken, cars are held up at the gate until a space opens. Drinking water or concessions are
not available in the preserve; chemical toilets are provided.
Hours of operation
9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily. A daily entrance
fee of $8.00 per vehicle is charged. Travis County honors the Federal Golden Age Passport
and the Senior Citizen State Pass.
Pets are not allowed, even on leashes.
Neither are visitors allowed to leave pets in cars while they hike and
visit the water fall. Visitors to Hamilton Pool, please leave your pets at
home for this excursion.
Extreme care is crucial for the delicate and
beautiful ecosystem which forms the Hamilton Pool Preserve. Visitors are
asked to please understand the necessary rules for preserving the park's
unique beauty for generations to come.
 Helpful Hints...
The well-marked hiking trail leads from the parking
lot to Hamilton Creek. At the creek, the trail to the right goes to the pool and the trail
to the left follows the creek downstream to the Pedernales River. Bald cypress trees,
lush, diverse plant communities, and a variety of wildlife species occupy the grotto and
downstream areas. The hike from the parking lot to the pool is about 1/2-mile round-trip;
the hike along the creek from the pool to the river is about 3/4 mile, or l 1/2 miles
round-trip from the parking lot.
If you're looking for swimming holes, then you need to check out The Best Swimming Holes in Texas Page - make it a goal to try all of them. |
