While we don't have a myriad of watering hole choices up here in the high desert of West Texas, if you are up for a bit of a drive there are several waterfalls and watering holes tailor made for the hot Texas summer.

 

  • 1

    McKinney Falls

    McKinney Falls is actually located within the city limits of Austin. Not only are there two sets of falls here (upper and lower), but over time the flowing water has made some great rock pools perfect for a kick-back.

  • 2

    Hamilton Pool Waterfall

    Another favorite of Austinites is the Hamilton Pool Waterfall. This one is about a 30-minute drive from Austin and requires a bit of a hike down to the falls and pool.

    Swimming is allowed when bacteria levels are safe, and the area is open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

  • 3

    Dolan Falls

    Almost directly south of us here in Lubbock near the border town of Del Rio lies Dolan Falls.

    Dolan Falls is part of the Devil's River, one of the prettiest and most dangerous rivers in all of the Lone Star State. It looks like a beautiful swimming hole, but swimmers and kayakers should be aware of the fast-moving waters and slim water chutes over the falls.

  • 4

    Gorman Falls

    Gorman Falls located just above the Colorado Bend State Park's Buchanan Lake, is a hiker's dream. The densely-forested trek leads to a series of small waterfalls which dump into the Colorado River.

  • 5

    Krause Springs

    Moving further down 281, the Colorado River and the Hill Country 'Great Lakes' between Marble Falls and Lake Travis lies Krause Springs.

    Unlike Gorman Falls, this is a peaceful oasis of a watering hole, complete with small water falls, rope swings for the kids and plenty of beach areas for picnicking.

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