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Austin, Texas / Parks and outdoors

Barton Springs Natural Springs Area

Nestled in Austin's Zilker Park, this natural oasis features four natural springs fed by the Edwards Aquifer. Enjoy year-round swimming in the three-acre pool, which maintains a refreshing 68 to 70-degree temperature in lush surroundings.

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Barton Springs Natural Springs Area
www.austintexas.gov, og_image_www.austintexas.gov

What is Barton Springs Natural Springs Area and where is it located?

Barton Springs is a set of four natural water springs located at Barton Creek on the grounds of Zilker Park in Austin, Texas. The springs are fed by water flowing through the Edwards Aquifer, an underground water source beneath the Texas Hill Country.

What are the hours for Barton Springs Pool?

The pool is open to the public every day from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m., except on Thursdays when it is closed for cleaning from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Guarded swim hours run from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. on regular operating days and from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Thursdays.

What is the water temperature at the springs?

The water temperature is ideal for year-round swimming, hovering consistently between 68 °F and 74 °F (or an average of 68-70 degrees) year-round.

Are there any unique animals that live in the springs?

Yes, the springs serve as a federally protected habitat and are the only known home to the endangered Barton Springs Salamander, which cannot be found anywhere else on earth.

Is there an educational exhibit at the site?

Yes, adjacent to the pool bathhouse is "Splash! Into the Edwards Aquifer," an educational exhibit featuring interactive displays where visitors can learn about the history and biology of Barton Springs, the endangered salamander, and water conservation.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

Located at 2201 William Barton Drive within the 358 acres of Zilker Park, Barton Springs is a beloved natural sanctuary in the heart of Austin, Texas. The area consists of four natural water springs that emerge at Barton Creek. These springs are fed by the vast Edwards Aquifer, an underground water source running beneath the Texas Hill Country. The largest of these, Main Barton Spring—historically known as Parthenia or "the mother spring"—supplies the iconic Barton Springs Pool, a sprawling three-acre outdoor swimming area. Over time, the area evolved, and in 1985, the Barton Creek National Archeological and Historic District was formed to preserve its rich heritage. While the main spring remains largely natural, two of the smaller springs feature man-made structures built to contain and direct their water flow. Beyond recreation, the springs are a critical, federally protected ecological habitat. They serve as the only known home on Earth for the endangered Barton Springs Salamander. To help visitors understand this delicate ecosystem, the "Splash! Into the Edwards Aquifer" educational exhibit is located adjacent to the pool's bathhouse. This exhibit features interactive displays focused on the biology of the springs, the aquifer, the unique salamander, and the importance of water conservation. Today, the pool offers year-round swimming, with waters maintaining a crisp temperature of 68 to 70 degrees (sometimes reaching up to 74 degrees). The pool is typically open to the public daily from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m., except on Thursdays when it closes from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. for deep cleaning. Guarded swim hours are available from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. on regular days, and from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Thursdays.

Visitor tips

  • The pool is closed for cleaning on Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., so plan your visit accordingly.
  • Check out the Splash! exhibit next to the bathhouse to see interactive displays about the endangered Barton Springs Salamander.
  • During ongoing construction, cash entries and kiosk purchases have been redirected to the nearby Zilker Cafe building.
  • If you prefer swimming with lifeguards present, guarded hours run from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. on regular days.

Nearby context

Located within the expansive 358-acre Zilker Park, Barton Springs is the crown jewel of Austin's outdoor scene. The surrounding parkland offers plenty of space for recreation, while the springs themselves flow into Barton Creek, anchoring the Barton Creek National Archeological and Historic District. It's a perfect starting or ending point for a day exploring the park's lush trails and scenic open spaces.

Sources

Evidence and links