Is It Free To Enter Barton Springs
Barton Springs normally requires a fee. However, during the pandemic, there have been some slight adjustments to this fee due to the circumstances of the pool and the requirement to make a reservation and not have as much freedom throughout the facilities.
The typical day use fees for Barton Spring Pool:
- Children under 1 year- FREE
- Children – $2
- Senior -$2
- Veterans FREE
Accessing Barton Springs Pool During Acl Festival 2021
AUSTIN, Texas With rain chances mostly gone for the weekend, and temperatures hitting the low 90s, many Austinites will be wanting to take a dip in the chilly waters of Barton Springs Pool.
The good news is the pool remains open for its normal weekend hours during the Austin City Limits Music Festival at Zilker Park, although getting there will be a bit trickier.
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For those not coming from the festival, the parking lot near the south entrance to the pool is open for swimmers. But road closures on Barton Springs Road and the section of Azie Morton Road north of Lund Street mean you might have to take a different route to get there.
If youre arriving from ACL, youll have to walk about a half a mile from the Barton Springs Road entrance along Azie Morton, turning right at the parking lot for Barton Springs Pool. Walking along the trail will take you right up to the entrance. The walk from the ACL East Barton Springs Road entrance to the pool will take you about 10 minutes.
The pool is open from 5 a.m. until 10 p.m. and costs $5 per person if youre an Austin resident, and $9 for non-residents. You can pay with a card at the outside kiosks or use cash at the booth. A mask is required for entry.
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Barton Springs Pool Reopens Will Stop Requiring Reservations By The End Of June
Barton Springs Pool reopened Friday after being closed due to flooding last week. The pool is still requiring reservations, but will stop requiring them by the end of June.
The city says Barton Springs will have more reservations available this month than before because its been able to hire and train more lifeguards. Austin has been facing a lifeguard shortage because of a yearlong pandemic-induced hiring freeze.
Because of that shortage, pools are operating with modified hours and capacities.
Barton Springs Pool hours are:
- Daily 5 a.m. to 8 a.m.: No lifeguards are working, so the city says swim at your own risk. No reservations are required.
- Tuesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.: Lifeguards are on duty. Reservations are required until the end of June.
People can make reservations at Barton Springs Pool and view costs here.
While Barton was closed, the city expanded hours at Deep Eddy Pool. Deep Eddy will go back to its previous hours starting Saturday.
Deep Eddys hours are:
- Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to noon for lap swim only.
- Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from noon to 7 p.m. for recreational swimming .
- Closed Sundays, Tuesdays and Fridays.
More information on which Austin pools are open and which are closed can be found here.
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Operation Of The Pool
The pool is usually open to the public from 5:00am to 10:00pm, daily. During this time, the floodgates on the pool’s dam are closed, and Main Barton Spring fills the pool to a maximum depth of more than 18 feet. At the upper end of the pool, another dam prevents surface water from Barton Creek from entering the pool by diverting it through a tunnel under the sidewalks.
Although admission to the pool is free from November through mid March, from mid March to October a small fee is charged for entry after 8:00am. Every evening after 9:00pm during the charging season, admission is free until closing. Summer passes, valid from Memorial Day to Labor Day, are also available.
Lifeguards are usually present except before 8:00am, when swimmers are cautioned to “swim at your own risk”. The pool is surrounded by grassy slopes and beautiful trees with plenty of shade. Items prohibited from entering the facility include coolers, food, non-resealable beverages other than water, glass containers, alcohol, loud speakers, pets other than service animals, and bicycles. Flotation devices are permitted at either end of the pool, but not allowed in the middle.
Is Barton Springs Open During The Covid Pandemic
During the COVID pandemic, Barton Springs, along with other popular recreational areas in Austin was closed for some time to ensure safety protocols. Fortunately, it has reopened with some specific guidelines to continue following the social distancing requirements and keep the spring goers safe.
The springs are open on everyday:
Monday, Wednesday, Thursday: 5:00 am 8:00am
Tuesdays, Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays: 8:00 am 10pm
There are no groups allowed. All guests are screened upon arriving and each must make reservations beforehand.Those who are not actively swimming are required to wear a face mask.
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City Of Austin Says It Might Permanently Close Barton Springs If Texas Bill Becomes Law
A bill filed to reduce federal oversight of the Texas fossil fuel industry could also force the closure of one of the states most iconic swimming holes: Barton Springs Pool.
House Bill 1683, filed by Republican state Rep. Brooks Landgraf, would prohibit state agencies and political subdivisions from interacting with the federal government to enforce federal oil and gas regulations if those rules dont exist under Texas law.
This is about protecting jobs in the Permian Basin, Landgraf, who represents Odessa, told NewsWest9.
But the impact of the bill could go well beyond the oilfields.
Texas has a reputation for lax regulation when it comes to the fossil fuel industry. Opponents of the bill say it would make it even harder to enforce public health, climate and environmental protections in the state.
It could also destroy preexisting partnerships and agreements between either cities or state agencies and the federal government.
Take Barton Springs as an example.
While most Austinites know Barton Springs Pool as a nice place for a swim, it is also a federally designated endangered species habitat. The springs are home to the Austin blind salamander and the Barton Springs salamander.
That occasionally pits the city against fossil fuel companies in disputes over federal law. Most recently, Austin sued pipeline company Kinder Morgan alleging the company had violated the Endangered Species Act in constructing its Permian Highway Pipeline.
Want To Take A Swim At Barton Springs This Summer You’ll Have To Make A Rsvp Before You Do Here’s What You Need To Know
AUSTIN, TX Those planning to take a dip at Barton Springs this summer will have to “get in line” no, seriously!
Starting late May, anyone planning a swim at the “68-degrees-year-round” watering hole will need to make a reservation online ahead of time, city officials announced Wednesday.
Two-hour reservation time slots will help the pool “to manage capacity for the safety of staff and guests,” officials said.
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When Can I Rsvp
Reservation slots will open up throughout the summer as follows.
- May 10 reservations will open up for May 21, 22, 23, 25
- May 17 reservations will open up for May 28, 29, 30
- May 24 reservations will open up for all June dates
- reservations will open up for all July dates
- reservations will open up for all August dates
A reservation fee will cost Austin residents $2 if they’re between 1-11 years of age, $3 for those 12-17, $5 for all adults and $2 for anyone over the age of 61.
For non-residents, $4 if they’re between 1-11 years of age, $5 for those 12-17, $9 for all adults and $5 for anyone over the age of 61. All payments must be completed online ahead of time.
Reservations can be made on the city’s website HERE.
When Is The Best Time To Visit Barton Springs
The best time to visit Barton Springs depends on your preferences of crowd and temperature. During the summer months, the area is almost always crowded, but the 3-acre area allows for many people to swim and lounge comfortably.
The most popular time to visit is around lunchtime when the air temperatures reach their peak. Take note, these times are also the most crowded.
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Can You Drink Barton Springs Water
Barton Springs water is known for its cleanliness and quality, but intentionally drinking it after potential storm runoff, people being in it daily, and other potential bacteria, is not recommended
The water gets tested twice weekly for bacteria like E Coli to ensure safety, but still not recommended to drink.
Bring your water to the spring if you get thirsty.
Barton Springs Pool Closed Until Flooding Stops Damage Can Be Assessed
AUSTIN, Texas – Barton Springs Pool is closed due to flooding. It will remain closed until flooding stops and damage can be assessed by the Austin Parks and Recreation Department.
Deep Eddy and Stacy Pools are both remaining open.
However, due to ongoing well pump issues at Deep Eddy, only the lap pool is open and its operating schedule is altered. Current hours are as follows:
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Are There Alligators In Barton Springs
There have never been alligators in Barton Springs. This has been an ongoing rumor.
You can find salamanders, which live in the water their entire lives. The springs are the only home to this salamander and they can thrive in unpolluted waters. The Barton Springs salamander is an endangered species and has the potential to become extinct if the waters become more polluted.
The city works to protect the area of the aquifer to not only protect this species but keep the water clean for all visitors to enjoy.
Deep Eddy Closures In Effect Due To Well Pump Repairs
AUSTIN, Texas – The Austin Parks & Recreation Department says closures at Deep Eddy Pool are now in effect due to mechanical issues with a well pump.
Due to these mechanical issues, the shallow end is closed for the remainder of the year, says PARD. Additionally, the pump failure causes a delayed pool fill time, and the pool will need to be closed three days a week.
PARD’s Aquatics Division is working to repair the pump and once that is complete, the pool will resume normal Deep Eddy winter operating hours.
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Barton Springs Pool Austin
Barton Springs Pool in Austin is one of the best places in Austin to spend some time on a hot summer day. In Zilker Park just of just off Barton Springs Road, Barton Springs Pool is one of Austin’s famous landmarks and easily the most popular swimming hole in the city. Spring fed, Barton Springs Pool is over 3 acres and around 900 feet long. The pool was formed when Barton Creek was dammed up, so it has a natural rock and gravel bottom. There are varying depths, diving boards, and stairs and ladders for entry. The water temperature averages 70 degrees throughout the year, so enter the pool gingerly. As you swim across, feel how some spots are colder than others. A more refreshing swim is hard to find, but the pool is often crowded, especially on summer weekends.
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Where Do You Park At Barton Springs
2201 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78746
There is community parking around the Main Spring to access the Barton Springs Pool. There is also public parking surrounding the entire Zilker Park area, allowing a large number of visitors throughout the day. These are some of the busier recreational areas in Austin, so its not always easy to park.
The springs are busiest over the weekend and warmer temperatures, so are sure to leave early to get a spot that is most convenient to you. It is recommended to bike, uber, or Lyft to Barton Springs if you want to avoid the hassle of parking.
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Is It Open Year
Barton Springs is open year-round, but be mindful of the cooler temperatures come fall and winter. The water comes from the natural Edwards Aquifer, so the temperatures can range from 68-74 degrees and sometimes even colder throughout the year.
The Edwards Aquifer is known as one of the most prolific artesian aquifers in the world. It serves as a great resource to nearly two million people in south-central Texas.
Other Areas That Welcome Dogs Near Barton Springs:
- Red Bud Isle Park- A dogs dream play area, where you can also canoe or kayak.
- Bull Creek- Named after the steam that passes through, this 48-acre park in northwest Austin is the perfect spot to swim, hike, and fish with your dog.
- Zilker Park- The park is known for dogs and sits next to Lady Bird Lake for a quick dip.
- Yard Bar- Dogs, Beer, and food. Thats all you need to know.
The parks that are around water that allow dogs to play are safe to swim. As always, keep an eye out for your pup and other dogs when playing around the water.
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Austin Pools To Reopen Next Week But Not Barton Springs Deep Eddy
AUSTIN City of Austin leaders announced Friday that public pools will begin to reopen in June on alternating days.
The city will reopen nine pools the first week of June, starting with three on Monday. But it still has not set a date to reopen Barton Springs or Deep Eddy Pool
According to the Parks and Recreation Department, the pools chosen to reopen are based on the levels of appropriately certified lifeguard staff. Splash pads will remain closed for the immediate future. PARD has also canceled its swim team program for 2020.
The full list of pools and the days they are reopening can be found below:
- Govalle Pool Open from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. Closed Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday. Lap lanes will be closed.
- Rosewood Pool Open from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. Closed Sunday, Wednesday and Friday. One lap lane will remain open.
- Shipe Pool Open from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. Closed Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. Lap lanes will be closed.
Reservations Required For A Dip In Barton Springs Pool
Folks looking to cool off with a dip in Barton Springs Pool will need a reservation starting May 21. The change is meant to limit the number of people for safety reasons because there are fewer lifeguards.
The reservation system, which opens Monday, will allow people to book a two-hour window between 8 a.m. and 10 p.m. Reservation dates will be opened in blocks, eventually opening an entire month at a time.
The cost depends on age and residency, but varies from $2-$9 and must be paid when registering.
Season pass holders, those 80 and older, children younger than one year, veterans, and retired or active-duty military service members do not need a reservation, though other people in their party will need one. Those who opt to swim at their own risk from 5 -8 a.m., when no lifeguards are on duty, will not need a reservation.
A spokesperson for the Austin Parks and Recreation Department said the city is requiring reservations to limit capacity because it doesnt have enough lifeguards. Hiring would typically have begun in November, but didnt start until March when public health authorities lowered the Covid-19 risk-based guidelines to stage 3.
There are currently 600 lifeguard positions posted. A PARD spokesperson said with smaller class sizes for trainings, it will take a while to fill them. Additionally, lifeguards have to be distributed equitably throughout the city. As more lifeguard positions are filled, the number of reservations at the pool may increase.
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Barton Springs Pool Reopens After Flooding
Barton Springs reopened Oct. 19 after being closed due to flooding since Oct. 14.
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By Benton Graham
Metro Reporter, Austin
Benton joined Community Impact Newspaper as a metro reporter covering transportation in Central Texas in June 2021. Benton’s writing has appeared in Vox, The Austin Chronicle, Austonia and Reporting Texas. Originally from Minneapolis, Benton graduated from William & Mary and eventually moved to Austin in 2018.
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