Tucked into the Hill Country about 50 minutes from Lakeland Villa, Hamilton Pool Preserve is one of the most breathtaking natural spots in Texas. Thousands of years ago the dome of an underground river collapsed, leaving behind a jade-green pool sheltered by a sweeping limestone overhang and fed by a 50-foot waterfall that spills over the edge all year round.
Getting there is part of the adventure. A short but rocky quarter-mile trail winds down through a shady canyon before opening up to the grotto, where ferns and moss cling to the cliffs and the air feels noticeably cooler. When conditions allow, you can swim in the pool itself. When they don’t, the walk beneath the overhang and along the creek to the Pedernales River is every bit as memorable.
Reservations are required all year, so book your time slot online before you set off. Check the swim status on the day too, as water access depends on recent rain and water quality. Choose an early slot for the quietest moments and the softest light on the falls. Spring and autumn are ideal, and sturdy shoes, plenty of water and a camera are a must. It’s a day out you’ll be talking about long after you’re back by the pool.
