Wimberley Blue Hole
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It’s hot. The beach is too far, the pool is too crowded, and going to a waterpark is not only too expensive, but the crowd is even worse. Besides, you’re looking for something a bit reminiscent of your childhood. Then you remember the joy you had swimming in that little creek or swimming hole in your community as a kid.
You remember cool, clean water, swinging from trees to land the most thrilling jump of your life, and the laughter and glee of your friends as they landed theirs. Does this place even exist anymore? You bet….it’s called the Blue Hole and is in the beautiful village of Wimberley, Texas.
Located in the heart of Central Texas, Blue Hole Regional Park offers visitors a chance to explore outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, and camping. The park is home to a stunning natural spring-fed swimming hole, the park’s centerpiece.
The water is crystal clear and the perfect temperature for swimming and relaxing. Several trails throughout the park, ranging from easy to demanding, allow visitors to explore the park at their own pace. The park also features picnic areas, playgrounds, and a disc golf course. Blue Hole Regional Park is the perfect destination if you’re looking for a relaxing day outdoors or an adventurous day of exploration.
Before You Go
Before visiting Blue Hole Regional Park in Wimberley, Texas, here are some things you might want to keep in mind:
Hours of operation
Please note that dates of operation may vary depending on water quality conditions, inclement weather, and special events approved by the city.
Hours of operation are usually from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturdays and holidays. On Memorial Day, July 4, and Labor Day, the hours of operation are from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
The park is open year-round, but its hours of operation can vary depending on the season. It is generally open from dawn until dusk, but it’s a good idea to check the park’s website or call ahead to confirm the hours.
Admission fees
There is an admission fee to enter the park, which helps to maintain its facilities and preserve its natural beauty. The fee is typically per vehicle or person, which can vary depending on the time of year and the day of the week.
- The fee schedule is as follows: children 4 to 12, $3; adults and children 13 and over, $7; adults 60 and over, $3.
- Season passes are available for $30 for ages 4 to 12 and 60 and older. Season passes for ages 13 to 59 are $50.
- New is a 10-admission, transferable punch pass that is transferable. These passes may be used for up to 10 admissions by anyone in the appropriate age groups. The cost for the punch passes is $24 for ages 4 to 12 and 60 and older. Ages 13 to 59 can get a punch pass for $56.
You can check the park’s website for the latest admission fees.
Swimming area
Blue Hole Regional Park is known for its natural swimming area, which is fed by a spring and is typically open for swimming from late spring through early fall. If you plan to swim, bring appropriate swimwear and footwear and follow all posted safety guidelines.
Hiking trails
The park has several hiking trails that offer stunning views of the Texas Hill Country. Some trails can be challenging, so wear appropriate footwear and bring plenty of water.
Picnic areas
The park has several picnic areas available on a first-come, first-served basis. If you plan to picnic, bring your own food and drinks, and be prepared to pack out any trash.
Wildlife
Blue Hole Regional Park is home to various wildlife, including deer, raccoons, and snakes. Be sure to respect the wildlife and keep a safe distance from any animals you encounter.
Leave No Trace
As with any natural area, it’s important to practice Leave No Trace principles. This means packing out trash, staying on designated trails, and respecting the natural environment.
Overall, Blue Hole Regional Park is a beautiful and peaceful destination that offers a variety of recreational opportunities for visitors of all ages. Following these guidelines can help ensure that the park remains a beautiful and enjoyable destination for generations.
About Wimberley
Wimberley is located in the perfect epicenter of the hilliest and most pristine terrain of the Texas Hill Country. The “village” of Wimberley is located just 15 minutes from San Marcos, 20 minutes from New Braunfels, 45 minutes from Austin, and 50 minutes from San Antonio….there is never a day that goes by where an exciting road trip is not well within your reach!
Wimberley is full of Indian and Spanish history, reaching back to the 16th century. Still, it wasn’t until 1880 that an application for a post office for “Wimberleyville” was made, and the postmaster general shortened the name to Wimberley and granted it. Thus, Wimberley became an official postal destination. In May of 2000, a central portion of the Wimberley area was incorporated as the Village of Wimberley, comprised of approximately 10% of the Wimberley area residents and the most centrally located businesses. Creating this village area has helped the community preserve its natural history and resources, including “The Blue Hole.”
Things to make Near Blue Hole
Wimberley, Texas, where Blue Hole Regional Park is located, is a charming town that offers a variety of attractions and activities. Here are some things you can do in and around Wimberley:
- Visit Wimberley Square: This quaint town square is home to numerous shops, art galleries, and restaurants. It’s a great place to explore, shop, and dine.
- Take a hike: In addition to the trails at Blue Hole, there are several other hiking trails in and around Wimberley, including the nearby Jacob’s Well Natural Area.
- Go shopping: Wimberley is known for its unique shopping opportunities, with many local artisans and craftspeople selling their wares. Check out places like the Wimberley Market Days or the many boutique shops in the area.
- Visit wineries and distilleries: The Texas Hill Country is home to many wineries and distilleries, several of which are located in and around Wimberley. Check out places like the Wimberley Valley Winery or the Cypress Creek Reserve Rum Distillery.
- Explore nearby towns: Wimberley is located near several other charming Texas Hill Country towns, including Dripping Springs, Driftwood, and Blanco.
- Attend local events: Wimberley and the surrounding area host events throughout the year, including music festivals, art fairs, and holiday celebrations.
Overall, there are plenty of things to see and do in and around Wimberley, making it an excellent destination for a weekend getaway or extended stay.
Rules
- Children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult.
- No lifeguard services are provided, and swimmers are advised that swimming is at their own risk. Dogs are not allowed.
- Tree jumping and climbing in the Park are prohibited. Children under 13 will not be allowed in the Park unless accompanied by an adult.
- Blue Hole Regional Park is a no-refund facility.
For additional information, contact the Village of Wimberley City Administrator at 512-847-0025.
History of Blue Hole Regional Park
The Blue Hole is located amid 126 acres of lush native grass fields, wildflowers, and natural forests, including old-growth Cypress trees that line the swimming hole.
The park’s land was originally part of a ranch owned by the Dr. and Mrs. E.M. Wallace family. In the 1920s, the land was sold to investors interested in developing the area as a recreational destination.
The property was a popular gathering place in the 1920s, and John privately owned it. R. Dobie’s family opened it for public use. Dobie’s descendants sold it to a private Austin firm, and the property had only limited access for many years.
Because of its location, Wimberley negotiated with the firm for its purchase. The investors built a large swimming pool on the property and opened it to the public as the Blue Hole Swimming Area. The pool quickly became a popular destination for locals and visitors and remained open for several decades.
In the 1990s, the City of Wimberley purchased the land and began working to transform it into a public park. The city enlisted the help of several community groups and organizations to restore the land and improve the park’s facilities.
In 2005, the Village completed the land acquisition portion of the Blue Hole project with grants and donations from Texas Parks and Wildlife, Hays County, the Lower Colorado River Authority, The Trust for Public Land, and numerous individuals.
The village has opened The Blue Hole park swimming area to the public, but the rest is still under restoration and development.
The Blue Hole park swimming area is usually open from Memorial Day to Labor Day. The swimming area opens at the beginning of Memorial Day weekend.
Today, Blue Hole Regional Park is a 126-acre park that offers a variety of recreational activities, including swimming, hiking, and camping. The park features a natural swimming area fed by a spring and is known for its crystal-clear water. The park has several hiking trails, picnic areas, and a playscape for children.
In addition to its natural beauty and recreational opportunities, Blue Hole Regional Park is also home to several historical landmarks. The park’s entrance is marked by a historic gatehouse built in the 1920s, and several other buildings on the property date back to that period.
Overall, Blue Hole Regional Park has a rich history that spans several decades. It continues to be a popular destination for locals and visitors looking to enjoy the natural beauty of the Texas Hill Country.
How Far is Blue Hole?
Blue Hole Regional Park is located in Wimberley, Texas, in the heart of the Texas Hill Country. Here are the approximate driving distances and times from some of the major cities in Texas:
from Austin
Blue Hole is located about 40 miles southwest of Austin, and the drive takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic.
from San Antonio
Blue Hole is located about 60 miles northeast of San Antonio, and the drive takes approximately one hour to an hour and a half, depending on traffic.
from Houston
Blue Hole is located about 170 miles west of Houston, and the drive takes approximately two and a half to three hours, depending on traffic.
from Dallas
Blue Hole is located about 215 miles south of Dallas, and the drive takes approximately three to three and a half hours, depending on traffic.
Please note that these driving distances and times are approximate and can vary depending on traffic and road conditions.
Blue Hole Regional Park
Blue Hole Ln
Wimberley, TX 78676