Krause Springs Swimming Hole Offers Camping, Grilling and Cool Fun

Entrance to Krause Springs

We can’t get enough of Texas swimming holes in the summertime.

This year, we celebrated the beginning of our swimming hole explorations with a trip to Krause Springs in Spicewood, TX.

Located at 404 Krause Spring Rd., Krause Springs is about an hour from Austin, depending on 71-West congestion. This private Texas Hill Country property offers tent and RV camping, a serene garden, and two different swimming areas.

Map of the Krause Springs property

What You’ll Find at Krause Springs

After parking in a dirt lot and entering through a gate, you’ll be asked to pay your entry fee.

Fees are determined by visitor age and purpose. Day fees are $9 for 12 and up, $5 for 4-11 year olds, and free for 4 and under. Camping fees are $15 for 12 and up, $10 for 4-11 year olds, and free for 4 and under. Make a note that the preferred payment is cash, but they do accept credit cards.

There’s an air compressor to fill up floaties near the entrance, and now you’re all ready to get in the water!

After entering, make your way down to the first swimming area

Swimming

Down a flight of stairs is the man-made pool at Krause Springs, surrounded by charcoal grills. One smart family we saw brought a tent to shield them from the sun. There are some shaded picnic tables and grills available.

The man-made pool is appropriate for families with little ones, or individuals with mobility issues.

Man-made pool at Krause Springs

The terrifying metal stairs down to the natural spring

Down another flight of stairs is the natural spring swimming area. The metal staircase is not for the faint of heart. There is a stone staircase that is significantly less terrifying, but we didn’t find it until we were on our way back to the parking lot to leave!

As I mentioned a second ago, the short hike across the rocks can be perilous and you really need to watch your footing. We saw a number of people slip, fortunately without sustaining injuries.

Despite the stairs and rocks, the natural spring is where the fun is at. Families bring their kids down, where everyone can enjoy the rope swing, a cave, a waterfall, and bobbing around the spring in floaties. There is quite a bit of sediment in the water that you’ll notice if you’re hanging out in a floatie. But the water temperature is extremely refreshing and that’s the bottom line when it comes to Texas summer.

Krause Springs natural swimming hole

Rope swinging fun

Camping

We haven’t camped at Krause Springs yet, but I’ve heard from friends that it’s a great time. Would love to hear from you in a comment if you have tips to share!

Part of the camping area at Krause Springs

Butterfly Garden

A surprising feature at Krause Springs is the Butterfly Garden. This large area to the right of the entrance is absolutely gorgeous and serene.

Krause Springs Butterfly Garden

You’ll find fountains, lawn chairs, a shaded seating area, a hammock, and Eric’s favorite wind chimes made by Music of the Spheres here in Austin.

Hammock under lovely wind chimes

The Garden is a great place to relax before or after you swim, enjoy a romantic picnic lunch, or hang out while camping.

Know Before You Go

• Office is open from 8am-9pm
• Bring your own refreshments and food 
• Pay attention to current burn ban information before grilling
• No lifeguard on duty
• Bathrooms and showers are available
• Smoking, glass containers and dogs are all prohibited at Krause Springs.
• Firewood is sold on site, but you can bring your own.
• No reservations are required, as there’s typically plenty of room for tents. However, the site does take reservations for RV hookups. There are 24 sites with 30 and 50 amp hookups. You can also reserve a RV site for tent camping if you prefer to have electricity and water (no RV required). Call (830) 693-4181 to check RV site availability and reserve accommodations.

So many people had recommended Krause Springs to us, and I’m glad we finally made the trip! We enjoyed our afternoon there and look forward to returning again soon.

@QuasiBrit asks:

I’d love to hear your Krause Springs tips. What’s your favorite part of each visit?