Hamilton Pool Preserve

A Natural Wonder Carved by Time

Hamilton Pool Preserve is a breathtaking natural swimming hole formed over thousands of years by the relentless erosion of the Balcones Escarpment. Hamilton Creek spills over a dramatic 50-foot limestone cliff, creating a stunning waterfall that plunges into a serene, jade-green pool below. This collapsed grotto, with its overhanging rock formations, lush mosses, and maidenhair ferns, creates a mystical, almost prehistoric atmosphere.

A Haven for Wildlife and History

Beyond its visual splendor, the preserve is a vital habitat for the endangered golden-cheeked warbler, thriving in the surrounding juniper and oak savannah. The area also holds deep cultural significance, with archaeological evidence suggesting human presence dating back over 8,000 years. Early inhabitants were drawn to the natural shelter and resources provided by this unique landscape.

An Immersive Natural Experience

Visitors descend a steep, rocky trail into the canyon to reach the pool. While swimming in the cool, 50°F waters is a popular activity, it is subject to water quality and safety checks. Even when swimming is not permitted, the preserve offers a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty, hike to the nearby Pedernales River, and marvel at rare plant species like the chatterbox orchid and canyon mock-orange.