Hamilton Pool
[Between Dripping Springs and Johnson City]
This pool and grotto was formed when the dome of an underground river collapsed. What it left behind is a spectacular 45-foot waterfall and large swimming hole -- waterfall volume flowing depends on the season. You may only see a trickle in the summer months.
The water is chilly throughout the year. Bring a tube or noodles to float around. I'd also advise water shoes or sandals. I thought something nipped at my toes a few times. A teenager/adult can easily swim from one shore to the other.
Space on the sandy area of the beach is limited, but you can find shade up under the cliff walls.
9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily. A daily entrance fee of $8.00 per vehicle is charged. Travis County honors the Federal Golden Age Passport and the Senior Citizen State Pass.
The parking lot holds only 75 cars, and when all spaces are taken, you'll be forced to wait until a space becomes available before they'll let you enter. If it's going to be a scorcher you'll want to come early so you don't have to broil in your car, waiting for a parking space. Bring in your own water and food. No glass!
The hike from the parking lot to the grotto is 1/4 mile, but it's a bit steep and treacherous. Hold hands with small children. You won't be able to navigate a stroller -- nor do you need one once you get down there anyway. Leave it in the car.
Hamilton Pool
If you bring water and food you can probably expect to hang out for a morning or afternoon.
Unfortunately, because the area is not highly supervised, there can be some unruly teenagers/young adults that may spoil some of the peaceful surroundings
Drive Times
Getting from one place to another takes time in the Hill Country. Texas is a big state and there's a lot of land to traverse. I've put together a drive time grid of how long it takes to get from one place to another.
Roadtrips through the Hill Country
The very thought of a roadtrip sparks energy in the air. As a college student, my best friend and I would stock the car with candy bars, sodas and enough clothing to last a week. We'd head off to Vegas or the mountains or sites yet unknown for an overnight.
