Local News

Austin’s Hamilton Pool Has New Summer Restrictions

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The Texas Tribune released the news that visits to Hamilton Pool, the popular Hill Country oasis west of Austin, will now require advance reservations during summer months, and prices for a visit are increasing from $15 to $25 a day. Travis County officials cite extreme growth in population in the area and overwhelming traffic in the summer as reasons for the changes. (Austin.com)

Beginning May 15, 2016, and through September 30, 2016, reservations will be required to enter Hamilton Pool Preserve. During summer months, the number of people trying to visit the iconic swimming hole greatly exceeds the preserve’s carrying capacity, which is established under Travis County’s permit with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Unfortunately, in the past, this situation has resulted in many people being turned away.

The implementation of a reservation system is an effort to:

  • Ensure that visitors (with reservations) traveling to the preserve actually gain entry;
  • Reduce the traffic load on Hamilton Pool Road and surrounding neighborhoods; and
  • Protect the scenic natural beauty of the preserve.

Beginning mid-April, 2016, reservations for May 15 and later dates will be available. Check the Travis County Parks website in mid-April for the reservation link.

As well, this is quite the price increase for folks taking their kiddos to swim, but with the growth in population, we suspect there will be many more stories popping up like this all over Austin. Unfortunately, restrictions will have to be in place until there are other solutions available, if any.