Lifestyle

3 Amazing Texas Hot Springs That Help You Make the Most of Summer

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Tony Maples Photography

 

What comes to mind for many when they think of Texas are images of cattle, cowboys, cattle, and thoughts of country music. But, warm weather may also come to mind. Each summer, our daily temperature gets close to (and sometimes goes above) 100 degrees Fahrenheit. The hot springs of Texas emit a similar heat and with close to two dozen accessible, documented hot springs throughout the state, each in its own unique landscape, many people travel to visit these natural wonders to soak up a bit of what the Lone Star State is all about. Take a dip in one of these three amazing Texas hot springs to make the most of summer here in the Lone Star State.

1. Capote Springs, West Presidio County

3 Amazing Texas Hot Springs That Help You Make the Most of Summer

Photo: Good Free Photos

Capote Springs is a group of springs situated close to Marfa in West Presidio County. Capote Falls (a 175-foot waterfall) is also a great spot to see while visiting the springs. Pairing the sight of the highest Texas waterfall with the luxury of the hot springs makes for a wonderful day. The springs have an average temperature of approximately 99 degrees Fahrenheit, in the secluded locale of Candelaria, coming up through Quaternary gravel and supporting a unique ecosystem. If you’re interested in learning about the area’s history, you can also visit the Marfa and Presidio County Museum.

2. Krause Springs, Spicewood

3 Amazing Texas Hot Springs That Help You Make the Most of Summer

Photo: Facebook/Jim Olive

Located on private property that consists of 115 acres and 32 natural springs, Krause Springs is open to the public with water temperatures just a bit on the cool side, at approximately 68 – 70 degrees Fahrenheit. This is a great place to cool down in the warmer Texas weather, and the property also contains naturally-fed, man-made pools which are open for 10 months of the year. Tent camping is available on a first-come, first-served basis, and while there, you’ll also have the use of barbecue pits, barrel rings for small bonfires, and clean restrooms. There are also a number of waterfalls and trails to add to your adventure and kayaking and fishing are easily doable in the larger natural pools.

3. Barton Springs Pool, Austin

3 Amazing Texas Hot Springs That Help You Make the Most of Summer

Photo: Flickr/Lars Plougmann

Barton Springs Pool in Austin is a great way to experience the hot springs of Texas in a manicured and landscaped setting. Measuring three acres, the pool is continuously fed by underground springs that emit water which runs at a moderate 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Although considerably busy with crowds on warm days, the atmosphere is upbeat, and the grassy areas are available for relaxing and picnicking. Non-residents are charged admission fees which vary seasonally, but they’re nominal and the trip is well worth it!