It’s finally Spring in Texas, and as the weather warms up, so will the Lake Travis area swimming holes. It won’t be long before temperatures start to creep into the 80s and 90s, and you’ll be ready to head out to one of the best swimming holes in Texas, Krause Springs in Spicewood.
A short drive out to the Texas Hill Country, it’s just a little over 30 miles West of Austin off Texas Highway 71 West, and well worth a visit. The 115-acre property has been privately owned by the Krause family for over 50 years since its founding in 1958, and serves as a great place to swim, camp and hang out on a muggy Texas afternoon.
Centuries-old bald cypress trees offer plenty of shade to shelter you from even the hottest of July afternoons. There are numerous picnic tables and grills throughout the site, in addition to newly-remodeled indoor bathrooms and shower facilities. If you plan on an overnight stay, there are campgrounds with electric hook ups and space for tents, campers and RVs.
The natural spring, which boasts a beautiful waterfall and plenty of room to lounge and swim, overlooks scenic Cypress Creek. It’s a perfect place for the whole family, with rope swings for the kids and plenty of space to lay out if getting a tan is your thing. When the sun’s rays get too intense, take a dip in the refreshing waters. Even in the sweltering heat of August, the waters stay cool. It’s one of best Lake Travis area getaways you can count on to keep refreshed in the summer. And with 32 natural springs on site, the water is always flowing.
Since the land at Krause Springs is kept in its natural state, the trek down to the spring may seem treacherous to some. There are ladders and staircases with railing to help you on your walk. However, for individuals with mobility issues there is also a man-made spring-fed pool on site as well on the first level of campsites. It’s always hard for me to decide which pool to cannonball into first, but this time I headed straight down for the springs.
Shaded by hundred year old cypress and oak trees, it’s easy to relax the day away here. Once you make a visit out to Krause Springs, it’s hard not to want to go back every summer. It’s one of the places I always bring my friends visiting from out of town, and for people who have never been around a natural spring, it’s always a fun experience. Lake Travis and the Texas Hill Country are awash in a multitude of natural wonders and Krause Springs ranks as one of the most beautiful and peaceful day trips.
The flowers and vegetation are bright and vibrant near these creeks and springs, and many Texas native plants grow in the Butterfly Garden, begging you to explore them during your stay. Lounge in a hammock as Monarch butterflies share sips of nectar in the garden. Soul-centering wind chimes careen and add to the relaxation as you take in all of the beauty.
There are a few things to remember when you visit, such as the rules against smoking and glass bottles. Pets are not allowed at Krause Springs. Bring your favorite food to grill, your favorite beach towel, some good sunscreen, and you might never want to leave this serene and lush Texas treasure.
Krause Springs (map)
Day Guests:
- $7 per Adult (12+ years)
- $5 per Child (4-11 years)
- FREE for Children under 4 years
Camping (Per Day):
- $14 per Adult (12+ years)
- $6 per Child (4-11 years)
- $14 per RV camp site
Post image via Creative Commons, danmachold photostream on Flickr.
